Even non-mechanical fixes can be satisfying. My partner's backpack strap tore off while we were on a trip to Japan and really needed it. I'm not good at sewing, but I grabbed the hotel sewing kit and did a quick and ugly repair, telling him not to wear it on one shoulder anymore since it might only last a few days.

Months later my quick ugly repair is still holding and I still see him wearing it on one shoulder. It's a nice backpack and I'm glad we didn't throw it away.