Redoing an old suitcase breathes new life into a vintage piece, transforming it into functional storage, unique decor, or even a statement travel accessory.
How to Redo an Old Suitcase?
Revitalizing an old suitcase involves a comprehensive process of cleaning, repairing, and often relining, turning a forgotten item into a cherished piece. This guide details the steps to restore both the interior and exterior of your vintage luggage.
1. Preparation and Assessment
Before diving into restoration, thoroughly assess your suitcase's condition. This initial step helps you determine the necessary materials and the scope of work.
- Clean the Exterior: Begin by wiping down the entire suitcase with a damp cloth to remove surface dust and grime. For deeper cleaning, use a mild soap solution appropriate for the suitcase's material (e.g., leather cleaner for leather, general cleaner for canvas or hard shells).
- Gather Your Tools & Materials:
- For Interior: Seam ripper, utility knife, sandpaper, glue (fabric adhesive, spray adhesive, contact cement), new liner fabric (cotton, linen, velvet), trim/ribbon, measuring tape, scissors, clamps/clips.
- For Exterior: Mild cleaner, rust remover, metal polish, paint (fabric paint, spray paint), decoupage glue, fabric, wallpaper, brushes, sandpaper, filler (for cracks).
- Safety Gear: Gloves, mask (especially if dealing with old dust/mold).
2. Revitalizing the Interior
The interior of old suitcases often harbors unpleasant odors and worn-out liners. This is a crucial step for usability and aesthetics.
Strip Out the Original Liner & Trim
Chances are the original liner in your vintage suitcase smells awful, is stained, or is torn. This is the first major step in refreshing the interior.
- Carefully Remove: Use a seam ripper or utility knife to carefully detach the old fabric liner and any accompanying trim. Start at a corner or seam where it might already be lifting.
- Clean the Interior Cavity: Once the old liner is removed, thoroughly clean the exposed interior surfaces. Use a wire brush or sandpaper to remove any dried glue residue, dirt, or loose particles. For persistent odors, consider wiping down with a solution of white vinegar and water, allowing it to air dry completely.
Glue in New Trim
After the interior is clean and dry, installing new trim provides a clean, finished edge and helps hide seams.
- Measure and Cut: Measure the perimeter where the trim will be placed, usually along the edges where the liner meets the suitcase frame.
- Apply Adhesive: Use a strong fabric adhesive or contact cement. Apply it evenly to the suitcase frame where the trim will adhere.
- Install Trim: Carefully press the new trim or ribbon into place, ensuring it's straight and secure. Use clamps or clips to hold it while the glue dries, especially in curved areas.
Cut and Install the Liner Fabric
This is where your suitcase truly starts to take on its new character.
- Accurate Measurement: Measure the interior panels of the suitcase carefully. It's often best to create paper templates first to ensure a precise fit, accounting for any curves or indentations. Add a slight allowance for overlap if you plan to tuck edges under the trim.
- Cutting the Fabric: Lay your chosen liner fabric flat and use your templates to cut out the pieces. Ensure the fabric grain is consistent for a polished look.
- Applying the Liner:
- Bottom Panel First: Start with the bottom panel. Apply spray adhesive or fabric glue evenly to the suitcase's base. Carefully position the fabric, smoothing it from the center outwards to avoid wrinkles and bubbles.
- Side Panels: Move to the side panels, one by one. Apply adhesive and smooth the fabric into place.
- Lid/Top Panel: Finish with the lid, using the same method.
- Dealing With Troubling Trim: If you encounter areas where existing trim is difficult to remove or re-glue, consider alternative solutions:
- Overlaying: You can sometimes glue new trim directly over the old, provided the old trim is still firmly attached and relatively flat.
- Creative Concealment: If a section of trim is missing or damaged beyond repair, you might consider using a wider piece of fabric or decorative braid to cover the area, or integrate it into a decoupage design on the interior.
- Secure Edges: Tuck any raw edges of the fabric neatly under the newly installed trim or secure them with additional glue. Allow all adhesives to dry completely according to the manufacturer's instructions, often with the suitcase open for ventilation.
3. Restoring the Exterior
The exterior of an old suitcase tells its story, but a little TLC can make it shine.
- Cleaning & Repair:
- Deep Clean: Depending on the material, use specific cleaners. For hard-shell cases, a magic eraser can work wonders. For leather, use a dedicated leather cleaner and conditioner.
- Repair Damage: Fill small cracks in hard cases with appropriate filler. For torn fabric or leather, use fabric glue or leather adhesive, patching from the inside if possible.
- Refinishing Options:
- Paint: Spray paint (for hard cases) or fabric paint (for canvas/fabric cases) can completely change the look.
- Decoupage: Apply maps, old postcards, fabric scraps, or patterned paper using decoupage medium for a personalized touch.
- Fabric or Wallpaper: Cover the entire exterior with new fabric or peel-and-stick wallpaper for a bold transformation.
- Varnishing/Sealing: Apply a clear protective sealant or varnish to protect your new finish and provide durability.
4. Hardware and Finishing Touches
Don't forget the details that complete the restoration.
- Clean/Polish Hardware: Use metal polish for latches, buckles, and hinges. For stubborn rust, a rust remover can be effective.
- Replace Worn Parts: If handles, latches, or wheels are broken beyond repair, consider replacing them with new or vintage-style parts that match the suitcase's aesthetic.
- Add Feet: For cases that will be used for storage or display, adding small furniture feet can protect the base and elevate the look.
By following these steps, you can successfully transform an old, forgotten suitcase into a beautiful and functional piece.
