I scored a vintage suitcase last weekend for $3 at a Vintage Garage Sale. Mr. Suitcase, in my opinion, looked too much shabby and not enough chic when I found him.
I noticed a couple of scars; like Mr. Suitcase had been in a sword fight.
He had great bones, though. And I liked his taste in jewelry -- that worn, rusty look. Not to mention that sassy lucite plastic nose ring. I mean, really. This guy was sending me serious vintage 40's vibes. For $3 I didn't think twice. I knew I could put him in rehab.
My friend Robin suggested I cover up his age spots with wood stain.
I liked that idea and figured I didn't have much to lose. At the very worst, if it didn't work, Mr. Suitcase would end up under the bed as storage. (I kept that little back-up plan from Mr. Suitcase, though. He's very sensitive.)
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I borrowed Captain's Minwax wood stain and gave Mr. Suitcase a makeover, covering his scar with little dabs of black and brown permanent markers Captain had on hand.
Now I love the way Mr. Suitcase looks. Rugged, with a sort of edgy patina.
It's fun to see an idea come to life. What are you imagining today?
I'm sharing at these lovely parties:
Amaze Me Monday at Dwellings
Tweak It Tuesday at Cozy Little House
You're Gonna Love it Tuesday at Kathe with an E
Nifty Thrifty Tuesday at Coastal Charm
Share Your Cup at Have a Daily Cup of Mrs. OlsonWow Us Wednesday at Savvy Southern Style
What we Accomplished Wednesday at Green Willow Pond
Home and Garden Thursday at A Delightsome Life
The Scoop at Stone Gable
Home Sweet Home at The Charm of Home
Shabbilicious Friday at Shabby Art Boutique
The Best DIY Link Party
Feathered Nest Friday at French Country Cottage
Frugal Friday at The Shabby Nest
Craft Frenzy Friday at Craft Dictator
Great idea Nancy--I never would have thought of it. Looks terrific. I love it when a plan comes together...Blessings,
ReplyDeleteDiana
Thanks, Diana. My ideas don't always work out the way I plan, but somehow that doesn't keep me from trying. Nothing ventured, nothing gained. Have a great weekend!
DeleteMr. suitcase is a dandy! I think you have solved my problem. I just bought a childs sewing machine. It came in a case, but the case has some mildew damage on the outside. I am going to wash it up good, but maybe stain will help bring it back to life. Thanks for sharing with SYC.
ReplyDeletehugs,
Jann
Jann, I tried cleaning Mr. Suitcase, and I did get some of the dirt off, but the stains were not going to budge. A bit of wear and tear I could deal with, but not so many stains. In this case using the wood stain worked well. Good luck with the child's sewing machine case. I'm sure whatever you do it will turn out great.
DeleteI enjoyed seeing your rehab . . . and delightful writing skill!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Lynne. Mr. Suitcase thanks you, too. ;-)
DeleteYou have great vision, Nancy. I would have kept walking right by poor Mr. Suitcase. He definitely found the right home! Great trick!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Kim. I was willing to take a chance for $3. Especially since Mr. Suitcase was in good shape in every other way. Another thought I had was to mod podge vintage postcards or world maps on him. If I find another deal like this one, I may just try it.
DeleteOh! That sounds like fun, too! Maybe that's a Mrs. Suitcase makeover! ;)
DeleteCute and what a deal. You sure gave him a nice makeover to start his new life at your house. I'm sure he feels loved and appreciating all the attention after years of neglect.
ReplyDeleteCindy
Thanks, Cindy. I like to breathe new life into old things. :)
DeleteHe looks much better! What a cute post!
ReplyDeleteThanks, Marie. After applying the wood stain Mr. Suitcase was a little stinky. I think he's over that now. ;-)
DeleteWhat a great little makeover, Nancy! I have a thing for old suitcases, and always notice their "faces" :) The stain really gave this a great look.
ReplyDeleteJeanette
Thank you, Jeanette. It was an easy, quick fix, and I'm happy with the way it turned out. Enjoy the 4th with your kiddos. xxx
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