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Old Trunk Makeover Ideas: Pinterest-Worthy Transformations

Transforming an old trunk into a stylish and functional piece of furniture can be an incredibly rewarding DIY project. With a little creativity and some inspiration from Pinterest, you can breathe new life into an old trunk and create a unique addition to your home. Let's explore some fantastic old trunk makeover ideas that you can find on Pinterest and bring them to life in your own space.

20+ Creative Old Trunk Ideas for Your Home
20+ Creative Old Trunk Ideas for Your Home

Before we dive into the makeover ideas, it's essential to consider the condition of your old trunk. Make sure it's structurally sound and safe to use. If necessary, give it a good clean and remove any old hardware that you won't be using in your new design. Now, let's get inspired and explore some incredible old trunk makeover ideas!

DIY Vintage Wood Trunk Makeover Idea
DIY Vintage Wood Trunk Makeover Idea

Upcycling an Old Trunk into a Stylish Coffee Table

One of the most popular ways to repurpose an old trunk is to transform it into a coffee table. This versatile piece of furniture can add both functionality and charm to your living room. To create this look, you'll need to ensure your trunk has a flat surface and is the right height for a coffee table. You can achieve this by either cutting the legs to size or adding casters to the bottom for easy movement.

an old trunk is turned into a coffee table with books on it and a vase sitting on top
an old trunk is turned into a coffee table with books on it and a vase sitting on top

Once you've got the height right, it's time to choose a finish that complements your space. From distressed white to dark espresso, the possibilities are endless. Don't forget to add some new hardware, like cup pulls or knobs, to complete the look and make it easy to open and close the trunk's lid.

Adding a Glass Top for a Modern Touch

How to Turn a Vintage Trunk into the Perfect Coffee Table
How to Turn a Vintage Trunk into the Perfect Coffee Table

For a more modern look, consider adding a glass top to your upcycled coffee table. This will not only protect the trunk's surface but also create a sleek, sophisticated aesthetic. To attach the glass, you can use brackets or create a custom frame that fits around the trunk's edges. Make sure to use a sturdy, tempered glass for safety.

To further enhance the modern vibe, pair your glass-topped coffee table with a sleek area rug and some contemporary decor. You can also add some hidden storage inside the trunk to keep remotes, magazines, or other living room clutter out of sight.

Creating a Coffee Table with Built-in Storage

Diy metal trunk
Diy metal trunk

If you're looking for a coffee table with ample storage, consider converting your old trunk into a multi-functional piece. To achieve this, you can add shelves or compartments inside the trunk to organize books, blankets, or other items. You can also create a false bottom in the trunk's lid to hide away valuables or keep them easily accessible.

For a cohesive look, choose a finish that complements your existing furniture and decor. Consider adding some new hardware, like metal or wooden handles, to make it easy to open and close the trunk's lid. You can also paint or stain the inside of the trunk to create a polished, finished look.

Repurposing an Old Trunk into a Vintage-Style Side Table

an old trunk makeover with floral fabric
an old trunk makeover with floral fabric

Another fantastic way to upcycle an old trunk is to transform it into a charming side table. This versatile piece of furniture can add both style and functionality to your bedroom, living room, or entryway. To create this look, you'll need to ensure your trunk is the right height for a side table, typically around 24-30 inches tall.

Once you've got the height right, it's time to choose a finish that complements your space. From rustic to glamorous, the possibilities are endless. Don't forget to add some new hardware, like knobs or pulls, to complete the look and make it easy to open and close the trunk's lid.

A Quick and Easy Vintage Trunk Makeover
A Quick and Easy Vintage Trunk Makeover
13+ Creative Painted Trunk Ideas for Your Home
13+ Creative Painted Trunk Ideas for Your Home
two open suitcases sitting in a room with tools
two open suitcases sitting in a room with tools
Thrift store makeover - diy painted trunk
Thrift store makeover - diy painted trunk
a trunk sitting on top of a wooden floor next to a potted plant
a trunk sitting on top of a wooden floor next to a potted plant
Antique Trunk Makeover
Antique Trunk Makeover
an old trunk is used as a coffee table in the living room with a potted plant on top
an old trunk is used as a coffee table in the living room with a potted plant on top
Vintage Trunk Makeover: What I'd Do Differently Next Time
Vintage Trunk Makeover: What I'd Do Differently Next Time
an old trunk as a coffee table in the living room with a plant on top
an old trunk as a coffee table in the living room with a plant on top
Military Trunk Makeover and Word to the Wise
Military Trunk Makeover and Word to the Wise
Light and Bright Cottage Living Room Makeover - Jennifer Rizzo
Light and Bright Cottage Living Room Makeover - Jennifer Rizzo
Unique Metal Trunk Painting for You
Unique Metal Trunk Painting for You
an old trunk is used as a coffee table
an old trunk is used as a coffee table
DIY Steamer Trunk
DIY Steamer Trunk
How to Easily Up-Cycle an Old Trunk
How to Easily Up-Cycle an Old Trunk
an old suitcase covered in stickers sits on the floor
an old suitcase covered in stickers sits on the floor
13 Upcycled Trunk Projects!
13 Upcycled Trunk Projects!
an old trunk is sitting on the floor next to a potted plant and rug
an old trunk is sitting on the floor next to a potted plant and rug
a white and blue checkered trunk on a white background
a white and blue checkered trunk on a white background
an old trunk sitting on top of a wooden table next to flowers and potted plants
an old trunk sitting on top of a wooden table next to flowers and potted plants

Adding a Marble or Wooden Top for a Luxe Look

For a touch of elegance, consider adding a marble or wooden top to your upcycled side table. This will not only elevate the look of your trunk but also provide a durable, easy-to-clean surface. To attach the top, you can use brackets or create a custom frame that fits around the trunk's edges. Make sure to choose a material that complements your existing decor and furniture.

To further enhance the luxurious vibe, pair your side table with some high-end decor, like a crystal lamp or a sleek vase. You can also add some hidden storage inside the trunk to keep books, magazines, or other items out of sight.

Creating a Side Table with Built-in Lighting

For a unique and functional side table, consider adding built-in lighting to your old trunk. This can be achieved by installing LED strip lights or battery-operated puck lights inside the trunk's lid or along its edges. To create a cohesive look, choose a finish that complements your existing furniture and decor.

For a warm, inviting glow, opt for soft white or warm white LED lights. You can also choose lights with a remote control or a motion sensor for added convenience. To complete the look, add some new hardware, like knobs or pulls, and consider painting or staining the inside of the trunk for a polished finish.

Transforming an Old Trunk into a Stylish Entryway Bench

An old trunk can also be repurposed into a charming entryway bench, providing both seating and storage for your home. To create this look, you'll need to ensure your trunk is the right height for a bench, typically around 18-24 inches tall. You can achieve this by either cutting the legs to size or adding supports to the bottom of the trunk.

Once you've got the height right, it's time to choose a finish that complements your entryway. From bright and bold to subtle and sophisticated, the possibilities are endless. Don't forget to add some new hardware, like backrest supports or armrests, to create a comfortable and inviting seating area.

Adding a Tufted Cushion for Comfort and Style

For a touch of elegance and comfort, consider adding a tufted cushion to your upcycled entryway bench. This can be achieved by upholstering the trunk's lid with a soft, durable fabric and adding buttons or tufts for a luxurious look. To create a cohesive look, choose a fabric that complements your existing decor and furniture.

For added comfort, consider adding some padding to the cushion before upholstering it. You can also add some hidden storage inside the trunk to keep shoes, coats, or other entryway clutter out of sight. To complete the look, add some new hardware, like backrest supports or armrests, and consider painting or staining the inside of the trunk for a polished finish.

Creating a Bench with Built-in Shoe Storage

For a functional and stylish entryway bench, consider adding built-in shoe storage to your old trunk. This can be achieved by installing shelves or compartments inside the trunk to organize shoes, boots, or other footwear. To create a cohesive look, choose a finish that complements your existing furniture and decor.

For easy access, consider adding some new hardware, like a lift-up lid or a hinged door, to the front of the trunk. You can also add some casters to the bottom of the trunk for easy movement, making it simple to rearrange your entryway as needed. To complete the look, add some comfortable cushions or a throw blanket to the bench for a welcoming touch.

With these fantastic old trunk makeover ideas from Pinterest, you're well on your way to creating a unique and stylish addition to your home. Don't be afraid to get creative and make these ideas your own. Happy upcycling!