How can I fix up an old antique trunk?

Question

It looks like it's been around since the 20's. It has a lot of rust around the trim & the latch is broken, but I think it could be nice again with a little TLC............I just don't know how.

Answer 1

Your best bet is to start looking at educational shows in that catagory so that you will be able to picture exactly what you want to do Good Luck

Answer 2

It's not an antique. It's vintage, and there isn't much value in them.  Paint all you want. Worth about $25.00. I have a camel back, from about 1880, and it's worth about $150.

Answer 3

I would have it appraised first and see that with the current patina it is not some lost relic worth thousands.IF IT is not a historic piece, or antique with value, I would then proceed with your fix up. Otherwise, take it to the antiques roadshow or ebay it.

Answer 4

For the metal parts, first scrape off all of the rust. Paint with anti-rust paint and then possibly with a metallic paint to make it look shiny.

Wipe over all of the outside with a wet cloth and then see if you can restore its colour by suitably painting it. Use thinned paint one coat at a time. Mask the previously painted metal parts with tape so they are not spoiled, and remove the tape afterwards, before the new surface is fully dried.

You will have to leave the latch or send it to an expert. Can you manage to work with thin metals? If so try to fabricate a replacement in brass or stainless steel.