How do i restore the embossed metal from an old(1800's) trunk?

Question

ok. i got this really old trunk. it has beautiful embossed metal all around it but it is really rusty. the wood on it is going to have to be replaced but i need some tips on how to restore the thin metal that has a lot of detail.

thanks!

Answer 1

if you wish to preserve the value of the trunk, i would leave it alone. if you are not concerned with it's value and you want to restore it into a pristine condition....the metal parts can be bead blasted to remove the rust, the wood panels can be remanufactured using new wood and the leather straps can be replaced. (once you do this,  it is no longer an antique and its value is lost; you just assume buy a new trunk that was made to look old.)

Answer 2

Both 1 and 2 offer some valid suggestions, although you do mention RUST, which suggests something other than Brass, etc.  hardware.

  Beyond that you don't suggest the real or assumed value, as an heirloom, or decorative piece you want to keep.

  Certainly if it has any REAL value, IE: Antiques Road Show type stuff, or any markings as to the maker, the year, etc. it should be left alone or professionally restored.

   You would, in any case be best to remove all the hardware, whether it is riveted or otherwise attached, and have someone tell you what the METAL IS.

   You state THIN, beyond RUSTY, and the embossing could easily be degraded by bead blasting, sand blasting, Acid etching. AND in the end the hardware might have to be re-plated anyway.

   Obviously to replace any of the wood with new, or any interior lining, or adding finish substances would diminish any real value as an Antique, but that may not be an issue in your case?

   I think if it was mine, I'd have it analyzed, trying to determine all the various materials used, and get professional suggestions and options for restoration. IF it has any REAL value or Heirloom value, I don't think it's strictly a DIY project.

   If it's thought of as no more than a decorative, conversation piece, it hardly matters, and/or you can purchase NEW/OLD LOOK trunks in that case. Certainly in a DECO sense you can replace the wood, PAINT the hardware, and use it as you wish.

Just my two "sense"

Answer 3

You did not say what kind of metal it is, but I would suggest finding a hidden spot and experiment.

First, try some vinegar and salt with a toothbrush.

You must neutralize the vinegar with some baking soda and water slurry afterwards.

You could try the same thing with a small brass wire brush if the toothbrush does not loosen the rust. Next i would try a product called CLR  in the cleanser section of your grocer.

CLR is much stronger than vinegar. same neutralizing required.

You could also try some other things before the CLR- like chrome polish with brass brush or a product called Bartenders Friend-in the cleanser section.

Whatever you find works, I would protect the metal with either clear lacquer or a wiping of WD-40 or sometning similar-

Boat store have polishes that protect at the same time.

Answer 4

Barkeepers Friend is a powdered cleanser that is great at taking rust off without damaging the metal.  You might have to use a toothbrush to get in the cracks and creases.  Dampen the piece, sprinkle with the cleanser, let it sit a bit (5-10 min) and start rubbing.  After you get it clean, protect it with something like Never Dull which is a metal polish/protector that a lot of the fire companies use on their fire trucks!

Answer 5

Try a plain white toothpaste on a small spot with a rag, if it removes it, continue with an old soft toothbrush to clean the detail, or leave the detail darker.