What started out as a worn out vintage suitcase has turned into an eye-catching piece of luggage as well as a table display. I bought a whole set of suitcases bought on one of my trips to Maine. I wanted a fun piece of luggage for Glinda and I also decided to use this as a display so I’ll show you how to take the renovated suitcase to create a tabletop display as well.
Some people might be a little disappointed as this was actually in really good condition for an old Samsonite, but it wasn’t reflective of me and my style. Let’s create something artistic.
#1. Remove inner lining. Use a utility knife where needed to cut away from hardware.
#2. After removing inner lining, use soft brush, soap and water to wash old glue from suitcase interior.
#3. Tape any hardware you do not want painted. I only taped latches. Begin painting suitcase exterior with several thin even coats of primer. I used Krylon gray primer first to neutralize the dark green followed by Krylon white primer for a bright white base. Note how I used a painters triangle to hold up the handle so I could paint all around it.
#4. After suitcase is primed, follow with several coats of white paint. I used 3-4 coats of Krylon Satin White.
#5. Decorate as desired with paint. I used DecoArt acrylics and The Crafter’s workshop stencils to add my designs. If stenciling, use a cosmetic sponge and dab most paint off before stenciling remembering that less is more. I handpainting the turquoise trim on the sides with a small paintbrush. I also added my logo using Craft Attitude film.
#6. After paint is completely dry, I used paste wax to finish my suitcase and protect my artwork.
#7. If you want to add hinges or additional hardware, now is a good time to drill your holes for hardware.
#8. To recover suitcase interior, I used Fairfield World low-loft poly-fil and Scotch Super 77 spray adhesive to adhere batting to interior of suitcase, trimming around inner edges.
#9. Following the same procedure used in step #8, add fabric of choice.
#10. Adhere ribbon on interior to hide raw edges of fabric. I used Beacon Fabri-Tac. It held fast and strong.
Now, if you only wanted this for a suitcase, this would be complete! However, I also wanted to use it as a table display.
I pierced the holes through the fabric that I drilled for hinges and for table legs. I installed hinges. I also added small table legs that I had painted white. When traveling, I can remove the legs and use small bolts and wing nuts to cover the holes.
I used the suitcase as part of my CHA Designer Display. I was able to carry most of my artwork in the suitcase as travel on and then quickly set it up as the center of my display. I love that I can use this as a regular suitcase for traveling and it fits as a carryon for most airlines or I can use it as a display whenever needed. Now I am Living the Art Life™ in style when I travel.
Hello,
Very lovely job there! I’m actually in the beginning stages of refacing a $20 suitcase I purchased online.
The hope is to have it repurposed as a dollhouse for my daughter’s baby doll for Christmas.
Question: Rather than paint, do you have any thoughts on possibly covering the outside of the suitcase with decorated “duct” or “frog” tape? or even wallpaper (peel and stick)? I’ve been playing with the idea for a little bit in my head, but wondering if you or anyone else here would see it as a bad idea? I consider myself to be an “intermediate” crafter 🙂 Figured I would ask here with the more experienced. I’ve been searching online, but can not seem to find any posts on people “re-covering” as I would like to. I’m only finding paint.
It would depend on the pattern (if any) of the material. Remember there are many curves and corners on a suitcase. I have thought about covering one with fabric and a good decoupage glue because the fabric would conform to the shape really well. I’d recommend a few layers of a clear medium over the fabric or wallpaper to seal everything in if you try it. If you do, please send me a pic as I’d love to see it.
I cannot believe that you would do that to a matching set. Do you have any idea how much they sell for on Etsy?? Unbelievable.
I do. :-). However, I bought this set originally with the intention of altering them and was quite happy with the outcome. I still use the set to travel with and use as a display when I am teaching. They are still treasured by me.
Such an amazing makeover! I like the final result!
Great job!
Great tutorial. Love your idea. Yours is beautiful. Hugs. Bonnie
I would SO love to make one of these!!! Looks beautiful!
You should. It was actually easy excluding the hinges. I’d love to see one you make. I’m going to complete the set.
I LOVE THIS IDEA!!!! I so want to make one now!
Why don’t you? I want you to know that your show at Orange Ave Studios looks awesome.