If this suitcase could talk, the stories it would tell. I have had this suitcase in my possession for well over 15 years. I actually have no clue where I got, most likely at a lovely antique store. It has had many uses since we met. It has been magazine storage, DVD storage, held numerous love notes from my Hubby, a random junk box, and most recently a photo prop. Lately it's been neglected and stashed away in the garage. With my daughter's 3rd birthday coming up I knew that I wanted to do something fun with so she could have it as her own and carry with her to make more memories. I came across a pin on Pinterest, where some one turned their old suitcase into a dress up trunk.
'LIGHT BULB'
How perfect for a 3 year old who's imagination is constantly running wild! This would be the perfect gift!!
Basically all you need for this project is:
Vintage Suitcase
Finials (used on bedposts)
Paint; in your color choice
&
Some power tools
I mixed up the color I wanted to match the color of the suitcase, a soft mint green. Painted the finials and allowed them to dry completely. I then had my Hubby drill 4 holes on the area that would become the bottom of the dress up trunk. Since the screws on the finials were a tad long, he also had to trim them down so there wouldn't be any sharp edges. I also added a pocket to the inside top portion of the suitcase, to put any accessories in. Had some extra scrap fabric lying around that was about twice the width of the suitcase, I folded down the top of the fabric leaving enough room to pull some elastic through. I measure the elastic to be as wide as the suitcase, doing this allowed for the fabric to scrunch up, which is what I wanted. So when I came to attaching the fabric into the suitcase, I was a totally cheater...I just hot glued it!! I know I know!! I figured that staples would be too long and poke through, and for the sake of time the hot glue gun was winning choice! ( I did add some tiny screws to the top of the pocket just to secure the fabric...)
You don't have to add a pocket, yours might already have one.
I added a fun Walt Disney quote to finish off this dress up trunk.
I am so very happy with how it turned out!!
I can't wait to give it to her!! And watch her imagination come to life!
**I noted earlier that I found this idea on Pinterest. I had to search for the original source because the pin came from a tumblr page with no information. After some searching, I found it was from the
Red Velvet Girls Blog. Searched through their old archived post, but couldn't find the exact direct link to give. If anyone knows the exact link to this post, please let me know so I can add it to here!**
I will be doing this!!!! Thanks for sharing :)
ReplyDeleteNO problem!! I had fun putting it together!
DeleteUHmazing!!!! Such a sweet idea and obviously I love the vintage feel and look of it. I bet she was so excited!
ReplyDeleteHow cute! Yours turned out so much better, but probably because your suitcase was much prettier. :) Such a great idea!
ReplyDeleteThanks Chloe! I loved the idea, and I am happy with how it turned out!
Delete;)
Nice! I love how it turned out. Can't wait to see pics of your daughter enjoying this wonderful gift.
ReplyDeleteI do to! I hope I can get some in the next few days of her playing and will post some!
DeleteWhere do you find your vintage suitcases?! I just love them!
ReplyDeleteFound you through the GFC Collective and excited to participate next week! (Your newest follower)
I have no clue. I have had it for well over 15 years, and since having kids my memory is shot! LOL I would suggest looking at antique stores, flea markets/swap meets, estate or yard sales. Or maybe even ebay, but that could get a little pricey. I think I found mine at a local antique shop, but don't quote me on that! haha
DeleteLove it. That is gorgeous. Way to go! :)
ReplyDeleteYAY! Thank you!!
DeleteIt's a good idea ! What a Nice new Life for this suitcase :) and the color is so nice !
ReplyDeleteXx
French-blogger
YummyPiiie.blogspot.com ❤
I love the color too! I am glad I was able to turn it into something fun for my daughter too!
DeleteSO CUTE!! I love this! How perfect :)
ReplyDeleteThank you Ashley!!
DeleteThis is super cute!
ReplyDeleteThank you Maribel! XO
Deletelove the project! I need a little girl. Oh and the writing on it is really cute too!
ReplyDeleteHeidi, this idea is so cute! I have the perfect little yellow vintage suitcase in my closet, that would be great to morph into this. My little girl's just a little young still, but what a great great idea!
ReplyDeleteDefinitely going to do this right now actually ;) What did you use for the wording on it?
ReplyDeleteThanks ;)