How to Paint a Vintage Suitcase

 

 

 

 

The title of this post sounds like I HAVE GONE CRAZY !

 

Usually  I am not the one who runs around painting everything.

 

One of my favorite things about VINTAGE is the old, worn and cracking patina.

 

I love the earth tones and warm colors of the past. I have quite a few pieces

 

of  vintage luggage, but there is always room for more. I can justify a purchase because

 

they can be SO useful for hiding I mean organizing.

 

I was helping a friend with a garage sale and she was throwing away a TRAIN CASE.

 

              She had been storing makeup...old make up...Avon makeup for YEARS in this case.  

 

You can probably imagine the smell.

 

 

 

 I was surprised that the smell did not linger. But sorry, in my opinion it was

an UGLY color. Since she was going to toss it I thought I could give chalk painting a try.
 

 

 I cut off the leather straps with scissors on removed the tray.

I gave it a good cleaning with Simple Green and a Magic Eraser.
You can use your favorite cleaner as long as you chose one that doesn't need rinsing.
I have found that leaving a Dryer Sheet inside helps with the musty smell.

I used Parisian Grey chalk paint and started on the inside first and let dry.
 It covered beautifully, with one coat.
I covered everything including the hardware.
A light sanding for a smooth finish, and used clear wax with a soft lint free
cloth to seal. It will feel like soft leather.

I was really happy  how it turned out.
I hope you will be able to find a  piece of luggage that will fit your color scheme, but if not give some paint a try. Suitcases are a great way to add some height and dimension to your home décor.
I love use the suitcases for display at my Craft Boutiques.

At my house they are up high....

....AND down low

I have an area under the counter were I used suitcase for extra storage.

Some are decoupaged with vintage looking wrapping paper scraps

One had some spots of wear and tear so I made color photo copies
of vintage map covers and travel stickers and used MOD PODGE
to  put them on the outside of the case.

I decided for now to leave it on top of a bedroom cabinet.

Later I add a rub on transfer to the existing label.

It is a little harder to find cases that are affordable, but maybe I

inspired you to fix one up that you my have otherwise have past over.

Happy Hunting! xo Lisa S