Whether you’re an old school enthusiast or strict lover of modern decor, everyone can appreciate the charm and history of a vintage piece. A suitcase that survives the wear and tear of travel over the years deserves the special touch of a DIY restoration. And what better way to give your beloved luggage a royal restoration than incorporating it in your home decor? Here are a few projects to inspire your own suitcase DIY.
Side Tables
Sarah of A Beach Cottage transformed this stack of vintage suitcases into a perfect coastal accessory. A shabby chic coat of white paint gives this mismatched set a new life. Top with some complimenting accents, and you’ll have a unique side table in no time.
This beautiful cerulean blue suitcase created by Reeves of The Weathered Door makes a dream nightstand. Angled legs from a discarded mid-century table were the finishing touch to this DIY. When looking for pieces for upcycling projects, scour garage sales and flee markets for inexpensive (or free) finds.
Coffee Tables
Marc of Home Trends turned this navy blue suitcase into a sophisticated coffee table in a flash. Furniture legs with built in bolts make this project appropriate for any skill level. Try matching the hardware of the luggage with metal accents on the legs for a uniform appearance.
This coffee table made by Jessie of Lenny and Eva incorporates two mismatched suitcases in an unexpected way. The glass table top allows your traveling keepsakes to be on full display from any angle. If you plan on setting food and drinks on the surface, be sure to choose suitcases that are level when stacked.
Dog Beds
When creating with your beloved canine in mind, vintage suitcases provide double decorative power. They’re perfect for spaces with a flair for antiques, and also offer the ideal relaxation spot for your dog. Ashlee of My So Called Crafty Life turned a $5 find into a cushy bed. Get even more out of your project by making beds out of both sides of the suitcase. Keep the spare as a replacement or give it to another deserving pooch.
Some suitcases look great as is and need little altering. If that’s the case, take a cue from Titatoni and leave your vintage find intact. Instead, add some interesting plush toys to mimic the look of pillows.
Finishing Touches
Featured on Design Sponge, Sara and Stacy of SugarSCOUT created an electronic charging station that would excite any organization enthusiast. This clever DIY eliminates the bulky nuisance of multiple cords cluttering your work space. Line the top with coordinating scrapbook paper or fabric to maximize visual impact.
This creative shelf DIY by Sharyl of Little Brown House is a great way to combine a love of literature and travel in one stylish DIY. The worn vinyl of the suitcase paired with well-loved books would be a charming addition in a study or office. Line several on one wall for a one-of-a-kind library display.
Commemorate years of travel and visits to far off places with one of these. Displaying vintage suitcases can keep the memory of world adventures alive, even if those experiences don’t belong to you. Have a suitcase that holds special memories you’d like to incorporate in your decor? Tell us about it in a comment below.
