Trunk Restoration

If you have an antique trunk, you might be debating whether to paint it or leave it as is. While some people believe that antique items should be preserved in their original state, others see the potential to enhance the item’s appearance with a fresh coat of paint. 

So, should you paint your antique trunk? Let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons.

To Paint or Not to Paint?

One question that often comes up is whether or not to paint your trunk. While, at Brettuns Village, we have our own philosophy, we understand that each trunk and its owner have unique tastes and visions.

Your antique trunk may appear as if it was painted at one time. However, that’s likely a baked-on finish based on linseed oil, not modern paint. Our philosophy at Brettuns Village is to protect the trunk to last another hundred years (at least). We aim to preserve its aged charm, rather than make it look brand new with gold paint on the hardware or antique gold paste on the corners.

If you’re curious about how painted trunks look, take a stroll around eBay. You’ll find plenty of trunks for sale, painted in various colors. If you decide to go down this path, remember to remove all rust first and consider using a primer on the metal parts before applying the final color.

Choosing the Right Paint for Your Antique Trunk

If you decide to paint your trunk, careful planning can really transform your piece into a masterpiece. Over the years, we’ve received interesting e-mails and phone calls from very experienced trunk refinishers. Many of these individuals are experts in the field, and they have different opinions about painting trunks.

There’s no rule, law, ordinance, nor even a guideline that stipulates that painting a trunk is bad — it all comes down to personal taste. Some refinishers aim to make the trunk look brand new, as if it was just purchased from a supercenter. At Brettuns Village, we respect the age of the trunks in our shop and aim to enhance their natural charm while allowing them to look their age.

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To paint or not to paint your antique trunk? Ultimately, the choice is yours. Both options come with their pros and cons. If preserving authenticity is essential to you, leave the trunk unpainted. If you’re looking to restore its beauty, painting it may be best. 

As a word of caution, be careful to avoid devaluing the piece further with poor paint choices or application methods. In the end, always consult experts who can guide you through the process and help you make an informed decision.
If you’re passionate about restoring an antique trunk and preserving its vintage charm, shop our range of trunk tools and hardware at Brettuns Village today! With our expert guidance and quality tools, you’ll be well-equipped to restore your antique trunk to its former glory. Happy restoring!

Antique trunks are fascinating pieces of history that create a sense of nostalgia for many. They were once an important part of people’s lives as they were used to hold clothing, jewelry, and even letters. 

Today, antique trunks continue to hold value and can be great centerpieces for many interior decoration styles. But like all vintage pieces, their cosmetic condition is key to their value. 

Antique trunk restoration can be challenging, but with the helpful hints below you can proudly display your beloved antique trunk.

Step 1: Prepare the Trunk

The first step to a nice looking trunk is proper preparation. 

• Clean the antique trunk’s surface using a mild cleaner and a soft cloth. This will ensure the surface is free of dirt, old paint, and grime. 
• Remove rust.
• Sand the surface gently with fine-grit sandpaper to smooth the surface. 
• Wipe off dust with a tack cloth (or use your air compressor).
• Don’t be afraid to use water and even soap when cleaning the trunk. Consider using the garden hose – that’s what we usually do.
• Let dry/air out for a few days before you proceed with the finish coat

This step is crucial, so resist the temptation to take shortcuts. Your trunk deserves your utmost attention and care.

Step 2: Understand Your Trunk’s Construction

An antique trunk is a complex combination of pine boards, metal or leather coverings, cast corners, tacks, nails, and possibly more. Each of these materials reacts differently to changes in heat and humidity. 

Over time, your trunk has learned to adjust to these changes. It’s crucial to retain this flexibility while restoring it to avoid new cracks and loosened nail holes.

Step 3: Forget Conventional Wisdom About Finishes

Choosing the right finish coat for your antique trunk is crucial. A finish coat is a clear protective layer that covers the surface of the trunk. 

Many people believe that a can of polyurethane or varnish is the ideal finish for an old trunk. However, our experience at Brettuns Village suggests otherwise. 

These finishes tend to block the trunk’s pores, causing the boards to crack. The antique trunks that have stood the test of time typically used a simpler finish coat.

Step 4: The Secret Brettuns Village Finish

Now, for the moment, you’ve been waiting for: our secret finish recipe. It’s a simple mixture of one part pure tung oil and one part mineral spirits.  If you buy a can of Minwax Tung Oil it has already been thinned, but we cut it in half again. This helps the tung oil to dry and provides excellent protection against stains (like when Aunt Marge tipped over her wine on the sofa).

You can add some solvent-based stain to achieve the desired color. We usually recommend a golden oak stain. Mix these ingredients in a coffee can, and you’ll have just enough to finish one trunk.

Step 5: Apply the Finish

Apply the finish mixture using a good brush. This method ensures you reach all the nooks and crannies of your trunk. Once applied, wipe off any excess with a clean cotton rag and leave the trunk to dry in a dust-free area. 

Our secret finish can be applied to wood, metal, leather, paper, or any other material found on your trunk. It leaves your trunk looking great while maintaining its ability to expand and contract naturally.

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Restoring an antique trunk is a labor of love that requires patience, diligence, and the right tools. At Brettuns Village, we’ve been guiding enthusiasts like you since 1988, learning from our mistakes and successes along the way. We’re confident that our secret finish recipe will give your antique trunk the breath of fresh life it deserves.

Ready to start your restoration project? Shop our range of trunk tools and hardware at Brettuns Village today! With our expert guidance and quality tools, you’ll be well-equipped to restore your antique trunk to its former glory.

Antique trunks are a beautiful addition to any home; after all, they’re a treasure trove of memories and charm. They not only provide extra storage space, but also add a touch of history and class to any room. 

But what if the interior is less than charming? Over time, the inside of your antique trunk may become worn, damaged, or stained. The good news is that restoring the inside of your antique trunk is a relatively easy process that can be done with some basic materials and tools.

Fear not! We’re here to guide you through your trunk restoration journey. Read on to get step-by-step instructions on how to fix up the inside of your trunk and make it look as good as new.

WHAT TO DO WITH THE INSIDE OF YOUR TRUNK

There are several ways you can restore the inside of your trunk. Let’s explore some of the popular options and their pros and cons.

Line the Trunk with Wallpaper

This method offers a variety of colors and patterns, and if done correctly, it can look quite appealing. However, it’s not without its challenges. 

Picture yourself wrestling with sticky glue, while trying to avoid getting it on everything, including yourself and your poor dog! Also, let’s not forget about those pesky little creatures that love to feast on wallpaper paste. What’s more: wallpaper tends to peel off after a few years, leaving your trunk looking worse than before. Our advice? Skip this option!

Line with Fabric

Using fabric to line your trunk gives you a wide array of choices. Upholstery fabrics are especially good as they resist sagging and wrinkling. However, this method also has its drawbacks. 

It creates a cozy home for bugs between the fabric and the wood. Plus, it requires precision and patience, particularly when attempting to achieve crisp edges.

Strip, Sand, and Stain

This is our favorite option at Brettuns Village. Remove the old paper, sand the wood, stain it, and finish it. This method is clean, simple, and long-lasting. It also allows the wood to breathe, preventing warping and maintaining its natural look.

HOW TO TACKLE YOUR TRUNK’S INNARDS

Whether you’re lining your trunk with fabric or stripping and staining it, we have some pointers to help you:

• For Lining with Fabric: Start with the sides of the trunk, both bottom and top. Attach the material at the top edge of the trunk bottom and fold it over to hide your staples.
  
  Run your material around the corners about an inch onto the front and back of the trunk. Repeat this process for the lid. It might take some time, but the results are worth it.
  
• For Stripping and Staining: Dampen (we use the garden hose, no kidding) the old paper with a cloth and let it sit for a couple of hours. Then use a paint scraper to remove the wallpaper. Sand the wood, apply your favorite stain, and finish the wood. You’ll be done in no time!

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Remember, patience is key when restoring an antique trunk. It’s a labor of love that requires care and attention to detail. But the reward? A beautifully restored trunk that’s ready to hold your treasures once again.
Ready to start your restoration project? Shop our range of trunk tools and hardware at Brettuns Village today! From decorative tacks to sandpaper, we have everything you need to bring your antique trunk back to life.

Are you a collector, antique lover, or DIY enthusiast who has an interest in antique trunks? Whether you’re trying to restore an antique trunk or create a new one from scratch, it’s essential to know how to attach parts to your antique trunk correctly. 

Restoring an antique trunk is a labor of love, and sometimes it can feel like a juggling act. You’ve got your hammer, the part you’re trying to attach, the nails, and the nailing heel – all requiring your attention at the same time. 

But don’t worry, Brettuns Village are here to guide you through this process. Here are some tips and tricks to help you attach parts to your antique trunk with ease.

Tools You’ll Need

To attach parts to your trunk, you’ll need a few key items:

• A good, heavy hammer
• A nailing heel, which is a big hunk of flat metal like an old flat iron or auto body work dolly
• Square-shank nails that are longer than the total thickness of the material you’re driving through

In theory, the process is straightforward. The nail goes through the wood and contacts the heel. The tip of the nail then bends back into the wood, giving the nail tremendous holding power.

In practice, it may take a few tries. But with patience and persistence, you’ll get there.

A Few Rules of Thumb

Here are some tips to help you navigate the process:

• Nails should be at least 1/4″ longer than the TOTAL thickness of the materials you’re nailing through (wood, leather, metal parts) so that they clinch over properly. For instance, if you’re nailing through parts/boards that add up to 3/4″ thick, you need 1″ nails.
  
• Tapping works a lot better than full force whacking. Hold the heel LOOSELY against the wood inside so that it bounces with every tap.
  
• To replace a pair of handles and end caps, you’ll need about 20 nails. Replacing a lock requires about 10 nails, and replacing the lid stay requires two nails.
  
• And remember, avoid using wood screws on an old trunk. Not only do they destroy the historical value of the piece, but they also violate the “Brettuns Village Law of Death Before Use of Screws” mandate.

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Knowing how to attach parts to your antique trunk can be a satisfying and rewarding experience. With the right tools, hardware, and techniques, you can add new parts to your antique trunk or restore missing ones with ease. With these tips and tricks, you can confidently embark on your next project without any worries.
At Brettuns Village, we offer a wide range of trunk tools and hardware that you’ll need for your restoration project. Whether you’re attaching new parts or replacing old ones, our selection of tools will make your work easier and more rewarding.

Antique trunks are a great addition to your home decor and they come in different styles and sizes. They’re not only functional and provide storage space, but they can also bring character and history to any room. 

However, old parts on an antique trunk can be an eyesore or even dangerous if not removed properly. At Brettuns Village, we’re all about restoring antique trunks to their former glory. While we love the charm of a well-worn trunk, sometimes those old parts need to be replaced to bring your piece back to life. 

But wait! Before you start prying off those old nails, there’s a right way and a not-so-right way to handle this task. In this post, we’ll discuss how to safely remove old parts from your antique trunk to restore its beauty and functionality.

A Word of Caution

If you’re tempted to rip out the old nails by their heads, hold your horses! This approach can pull out chunks of wood with the nails, damaging your trunk. 

Instead, pry out the ends from inside the trunk, then tap them out gently. And let’s not even talk about completely dismantling your trunk — it’s a surefire way to convert those old nail holes into miniature versions of the Holland Tunnel. (Besides, some parts are best left in place whenever possible.)

Removing Old Handles and Parts

Now, onto the nitty-gritty: removing old handles and other parts. This task can feel like a delicate operation, especially when those old nails seem to have become one with the trunk. 

Fear not! With the right tools and a little patience, you’ll have those stubborn nails out in no time.

Essential Tools for the Job

There are two trunk tools you simply can’t do without:

• End Nippers: These plier-like tools have wide cutting edges that allow you to get right up close to the wood. They’re perfect for cutting off old nail heads or ends, and especially handy for yanking out stubborn nails.
  
• Prying Tool: We don’t want to catch you using a crowbar on that precious trunk of yours! What you need is a prying tool – it has a screwdriver-like handle and a small forked end perfect for lifting end caps and nail heads. At Brettuns Village, we affectionately call this handy tool a “Tack Jacker”.

Wondering where to get these tools? We’ve got you covered. Shop here for these essential trunk tools and more.

The Right Way to Remove Trunk Nails

With your Tack Jacker and end nippers in hand, it’s time to tackle those stubborn nails. 

• Lift up the nail heads with the Tack Jacker, then use the nippers to roll out the nail. If possible, it can be helpful to snip off the end of the nail inside the trunk — just be careful not to damage the wood.
  
• Place an old piece of trunk tin or a license plate under your tools as you work to protect the wood.
  
• After removing the handle end caps, it’s time to remove the handles themselves. They usually have a slew of nails holding them on, so when you finally get them off, it might look like you’re holding a bizarre leather bug with steel legs!

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Restoring an antique trunk can be a fun and rewarding project. However, it’s essential to remove old parts safely to avoid damaging your antique trunk. Follow the steps outlined in this post carefully to remove old nails, handles, locks, and hinges. 

Remember to prepare your antique trunk for restoration, clean it thoroughly, and refurbish it to bring it back to life. With the right tools and patience, your antique trunk can become a functional and beautiful addition to your home.

Ready to start your restoration project? Shop our range of trunk tools and hardware at Brettuns Village today and take the first step towards giving your antique trunk the makeover it deserves!

There’s a certain charm to antique trunks — they’re a tangible link to the past, a treasure chest of memories. However, like an eccentric old relative, they often come with a peculiar smell that can range from mildly musty to downright offensive. 

That’s where we at Brettuns Village step in with our guide on how to tackle these odors and restore your antique trunk to its former glory. Here are five ways to deal with odors from antique trunks.

1. Let It Breathe

The first rule of thumb? Fresh air and sunshine. Much like us, trunks too enjoy a good sunbathing session. If your trunk reeks of mustiness, leave it open in the sun as often as you can.

Sunlight helps to kill mold and mildew that can cause a musty smell. Simply leave your trunk outside under the sun for a few hours and turn it over to ensure all parts receive an even amount of sunlight. Repeat this process for several days until the odor is gone.

2. Scrape, Sand & Stain

Next, take a good look inside your trunk. Most trunks are lined with paper or fabric and, for most trunks, the lining paper is held in place with mucilage, also known as horsehide glue – a protein glue. It wants to stink up your house, so get rid of it! Scrape it out and then sand down the wood underneath.  If the paper doesn’t want to let go try soaking it with water for a few hours, then try scraping again. It’ll be much easier if you let it soak.

Dampen stubborn bits of paper with a sponge to make removal easier. Once you’ve scraped off the paper and the glue (which can also contribute to the smell), let the wood dry thoroughly before staining or finishing it.

3. Kitty Litter

Here’s a great tip from Jo Ann Cross, one of our customers: Place an open bag of kitty litter in the trunk, close the lid and check back in a week. The cheap brands usually work best. Just remember to keep the lid closed, or you might end up with a different kind of odor problem! It all adds up to just another reason that you should have a Labrador Retriever in your house.

4. Baking Soda

Baking soda is an excellent natural odor absorber and it is easy to use. Sprinkle a thin layer of baking soda inside the trunk and leave it for a few days. Afterward, vacuum it up. 

5. Coffee Grounds

Cindy Bird from Nova Scotia offers another useful trick: Use fresh ground coffee in the trunk. Spread it across as many surfaces as possible, close the trunk, and let it sit for a couple of days. 

Cindy assures us that this method worked wonders for her musty old bureau. Just remember to use dry coffee grounds, not the wet leftovers from your morning brew.

SAFETY REMINDER

While we’re on the topic of odors, let’s address a popular myth. Some suggest placing a lit candle inside the trunk and propping the lid open slightly. We strongly discourage this. It’s a fire hazard and can lead to disastrous results. Always prioritize safety when dealing with antique trunks.

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Antique trunks are always a beautiful and valuable vintage piece that can add beauty and charm to your home. However, musty or unpleasant odors can discourage you from adding one to your collection or using the one you already own. These five solutions are simple yet effective in banishing odors from antique trunks. Try them and bring back the old glory of your antique trunk!

Restoring an antique trunk is a labor of love, and we at Brettuns Village are here to help every step of the way. With our wide range of trunk tools and hardware, your restoration project will be easier and more enjoyable. So why wait? Start your journey towards a fresher, more pleasant-smelling antique trunk today with Brettuns Village!

Antique trunks are a popular collectible item among crafters and antique lovers. They have a certain charm that’s hard to find in modern-day furniture and make a great addition to any home. 

Antique trunks are often a beautiful blend of different materials — pine boards covered in decorative tin, steel corners, brass locks, and nails. However, age and neglect can leave vintage trunks with rusted metal parts and corroded brass. If that sounds like your trunk, it’s time to roll up your sleeves for some restoration work.

If you have an antique trunk that you want to restore, you’re in luck because we’ve compiled some easy-to-follow steps on how to remove rust and other unpleasant surprises from your antique trunks.

SAFETY FIRST!

Before we dive into the nitty-gritty, let’s talk safety. Always assume any paint on your trunk is lead-based. Lead exposure can have severe health impacts, so equip yourself with respirators, disposable clothing, gloves, and safety glasses. 

RESTORING BRASS

Brass components are often found on antique trunks. They’re soft, so they demand gentle treatment. 

Use fine steel wool (not pot scrubbers) to polish the brass parts. Avoid the temptation to use brass or gold-colored paint to make every metal piece shine. It might look good to you, but it’s not authentic, and true restoration enthusiasts will know!

DEALING WITH STEEL & TIN

Rusted steel and tin require more vigorous treatment. There are two main approaches to rust removal: the ‘Slow and Steady’ method and the ‘Brute Force or Bust’ approach.

Option 1: Slow & Steady Wins the Race

This method involves hours of rubbing using steel wool or a wire brush. It’s labor-intensive, but rewarding as it reveals the shiny metal beneath the rust without damaging the wood slats or softer brass parts. Most of our customers prefer this method, and we don’t blame them.

Option 2: Brute Force or Bust

This approach requires less time but can potentially damage your trunk if done carelessly. You’ll need an electric drill fitted with a circular wire brush, protective gear, and lots of patience. When done correctly, it can be a quick and effective way to remove rust. However, remember to go easy on the brush and keep it on the metal parts only.

We recommend experimenting with both methods – use the wire brush for heavy rust, and finish up with steel wool.

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Antique trunks are a beautiful addition to any home, but they can be a real challenge to restore if they’re not in great condition. Removing rust and other unpleasant surprises can seem daunting, but with a little patience and some elbow grease, you can get your antique trunk looking as good as new. By following these simple steps, you’ll be able to restore your antique trunk to its former glory in no time.

At Brettuns Village, we offer a wide range of tools perfect for your trunk restoration project. Whether you’re dealing with rusted steel, tin, or tarnished brass, we have the right tools to help you restore your antique trunk to its former glory. So, why wait? Start your restoration journey with us today!

Do you have an old canvas-covered trunk gathering dust in your attic? It might be time to roll up your sleeves and give it a new lease on life. 

Canvas-covered trunks are a beautiful and functional type of luggage that has been around for centuries. Originally used by soldiers to store their gear during long journeys, these trunks have become a popular choice for antique lovers and vintage decor enthusiasts. 

However, over time, canvas can fade, tear, and wear down, leaving these trunks looking tired and worn out. Whether you’re looking to repair the original canvas or reveal the wooden beauty beneath, Brettuns Village has you covered with this step-by-step guide.

Repair the Canvas

If your trunk’s canvas has minor tears or worn-out spots, consider repairing it. True restoration involves preserving the original covering. 

Start by cleaning the canvas as much as possible using a dry brush and a damp sponge. After you’ve sanded the slats and removed rust from the metal parts, apply a finish coat to preserve the canvas.

Remove the Canvas

If the canvas is beyond repair or if you prefer the look of raw wood, here’s how to go about removing it:

1. Gather Your Tools: To start, all you need is a razor knife, a paint scraper, and medium-grit sandpaper. A dust mask is also highly recommended.
   
2. Prepare Your Workspace: Lift the trunk to a comfortable working height. A good trick is to use a second trunk as a table. Safety first, though — please use the utmost caution while working with sharp tools.
   
3. Start Peeling: Carefully trace the edges of the canvas with your razor knife and peel it away. Remember to wear a dust mask as this process can kick up a lot of dust.
   
4. Remove Excess Glue: Once all the canvas is removed, use a paint scraper to gently remove the leftover glue, always scraping with the grain of the wood.
   
5. Sand the Wood: Start with medium-grit sandpaper for the first pass, then switch to fine grit. Be careful not to sand metal pieces or the oak slats.
   
6. Apply Finish: Finally, apply your choice of finish to the wood for a polished look. We recommend our magic trunk goop mixture for the best results.

Now that you know how to restore your canvas-covered trunk, it’s time to gather your tools and get started! 

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Restoring a canvas-covered trunk can be a challenging but rewarding experience. With the right tools, patience, and attention to detail, you can bring an old and worn-out piece of luggage back to life. Not only will your restored canvas-covered trunk be a beautiful and functional addition to your collection, but it will also hold a sense of history and nostalgia that will only grow stronger with each passing year.

At Brettuns Village, we provide a wide range of high-quality trunk tools and hardware to aid your restoration project. From razor knives to sandpaper to our magic trunk goop mixture, we’ve got everything you need to breathe new life into your old trunk. So why wait? Happy restoring!

Vintage trunks are often passed down from generation to generation, and with good reason – they’re beautiful, durable, and full of character. However, years of wear and tear can take their toll on even the sturdiest trunk. 

But fear not! You can restore your antique trunk to its former glory with a little elbow grease and some DIY skills. In this guide, we will take you through the step-by-step process of antique trunk restoration.

THE DIY GUIDE TO ANTIQUE TRUNK RESTORATION

If you’ve got an old trunk tucked away in your attic or basement, it’s likely been collecting dust for years. It’s a piece of history — a relic of the past that whispers tales of bygone eras. But it’s seen better days, and you’re not quite sure what to do with it. 

You could hire a professional refinisher, but where’s the fun in that? Not to mention the hefty price tag. So let’s dive into DIY trunk restoration!

Step 1: Prep Your Antique Trunk

Before you start any restoration work, you need to clean and prep your trunk. Remove any dirt and debris with a soft-bristled brush and water. if it’s stubborn use the garden hose and some dish soap/water and scrub away. 

Before you use some miracle cleaner that caught your eye at the hardware store, test any cleaning solution on a small, inconspicuous area of the trunk. Once your trunk is clean, dry it thoroughly with a clean, soft cloth.

Step 2: Repair Any Damage

If your vintage trunk has any damage — such as broken hinges or missing handles — you’ll need to repair these before you can restore the trunk. 

You can find replacement parts, tools and hardware right here at Brettuns Village! Be sure to match the original hardware as closely as possible to maintain the trunk’s historical accuracy.

Step 3: Sand Your Antique Trunk

To restore your antique trunk’s finish, you’ll need to sand it down the outer slats to remove any old paint, varnish, or stain. Start with a coarse-grit sandpaper and work your way up to a finer grit. 

Be sure to sand in the direction of the wood grain to avoid leaving scratches. Once the trunk is smooth and even, wipe it down with a clean, damp cloth to remove any dust.

Step 4: Stain or Paint Your Antique Trunk

Now that your vintage trunk is prepped and repaired, it’s time to give it a new finish. You can stain the wood to bring out its natural color or paint it to give it a new look. 

If painting, use a paintbrush and a high-quality paint designed for wood. For staining, use a soft cloth or brush to apply the stain in long, even strokes. Allow each coat to dry completely before applying the next.

Step 5: Seal Your Antique Trunk

To protect your antique trunk’s new finish, you may choose to seal it with a clear coat. In our shop we’ve had the best luck with tung oil – seems to remain breathable and this means new cracks don’t appear in the finish coat.

Apply a thin, even coat with a clean brush, and allow it to dry completely before adding additional coats.

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Restoring an antique trunk can be a time-consuming process, but the result is well worth the effort. Your old trunk will have a new lease on life and be a stunning piece in your home. With a little DIY know-how and some elbow grease, you can uncover the hidden charm of your old trunk and preserve it for future generations to enjoy. 

So, what are you waiting for? Get started on your antique trunk restoration project today! And don’t forget to shop our collection of trunk parts, tools, and hardware! At Brettuns Village, we’re not just committed to meeting the highest standards of craftsmanship – we’re here to help you through the process.