Decorating with vintage suitcases is a creative and nostalgic way to add character to any space.
These charming pieces not only serve as functional storage solutions but also evoke a sense of adventure and history.
Whether you’re a seasoned collector or simply drawn to their aesthetic appeal, incorporating vintage suitcases into your home decor can create a unique focal point.
From stacking them as side tables to using them as stylish displays for books and plants, the possibilities are endless.
In this guide on how to decorate with vintage suitcases, we’ll explore various ways to effectively integrate vintage suitcases into your decor, highlighting both their practicality and charm.
Benefits of Decorating With Vintage Suitcases
Integrating vintage suitcases into your decor comes with a myriad of benefits that enhance both style and functionality.
Firstly, these pieces add a distinctive charm and a sense of nostalgia, making any room feel more inviting and unique. Secondly, vintage suitcases offer versatile storage options; they can conceal clutter while still being aesthetically pleasing.
Additionally, they can easily complement various design styles, from rustic to modern, allowing for endless creative possibilities.
Finally, using vintage items promotes sustainability by repurposing existing materials, giving them a second life rather than contributing to waste.
Needed Materials
Before diving into different ways to decorate with vintage suitcases, here are some materials that you may need:
Vintage Suitcases:
The main element of this decor style, vintage suitcases can be found in various sizes, colors, and designs. The more unique the suitcase is, the more character it adds to your space.
Furniture Wax:
If you want to restore or enhance the original beauty of your vintage suitcases, furniture wax can help bring out their natural wood tones and add a protective layer.
Decorative Knobs:
Replacing the existing knobs on your vintage suitcases with decorative ones can instantly elevate their look and add a personal touch to your decor.
Books & Plants:
These elements not only add visual interest but also serve as functional accessories when displayed on top of or inside stacked vintage suitcases.
12 Steps Instructions on How to Decorate With Vintage Suitcases
Step 1: Stacked Side Tables
One of the easiest and most impactful ways to incorporate vintage suitcases into your decor is by using them as stacked side tables. Begin by selecting a few suitcases of varying sizes that complement each other in color and style. Position the largest suitcase at the bottom as your base, ensuring it’s stable and secure.
Add medium-sized suitcases on top, creating visual interest with a mix of patterns and textures.
This setup not only provides a functional table surface for placing drinks or books but also serves as a striking focal point in your living space.
To enhance the look, consider adding decorative elements such as a small lamp, a stack of books, or a potted plant on top of the suitcases, making them both practical and aesthetically pleasing.
Step 2: Stacked Storage Solution
Another innovative way to utilize vintage suitcases is by creating a stacked storage solution. This approach not only maximizes vertical space but also adds a stylish flair to your room.
Start by selecting suitcases that vary in size, ideally placing larger ones at the bottom to provide stability. Stack them neatly in a corner or against a wall, leaving the tops of the suitcases easily accessible.
Use the bottom and middle suitcases to store larger items such as blankets, seasonal clothing, or magazines, while the top suitcase can hold smaller items like craft supplies or shoes.
To enhance the look, consider adding decorative tags or labels to each suitcase for a personalized touch. This arrangement combines practicality with aesthetics, turning a simple storage solution into a charming display.
Step 3: Vintage Vanity Station
Repurpose a vintage suitcase into a unique vanity station by adding a mirror and some storage compartments. Choose a medium-sized suitcase that opens up fully, allowing for easy access to your beauty essentials. Attach a small mirror onto the inside of the lid using strong adhesive or hinges.
You can also add dividers or trays on one side of the suitcase to store makeup, brushes, and other tools. On the opposite side, you can use smaller compartments to hold jewelry or hair accessories. This vintage vanity station is not only functional but also adds a touch of elegance and nostalgia to any dressing area.
Step 4: Decorative Wall Display
Transforming vintage suitcases into a decorative wall display is a creative way to showcase your love for travel and nostalgia. Begin by selecting a few suitcases that vary in size and color.
Arrange them on the wall in a visually pleasing manner, either in a clustered pattern or spaced out for an eclectic look. You can securely mount the suitcases using heavy-duty wall brackets or L- brackets to ensure they are stable and safe.
This unique display can serve as a backdrop for photos, mementos, or even a few decorative items, such as travel books or vintage postcards. Not only does this approach save space on the floor, but it also turns your wall into an eye-catching conversation piece that reflects your personal style and interests.
Step 5: Vintage Plant Stand
Repurpose your vintage suitcases into a charming plant stand by stacking them in a pyramid-like structure. Begin with the largest suitcase at the bottom, placing it on its side to create a stable base.
Add smaller suitcases on top, making sure they are securely stacked and stable.
Place different potted plants on each level, creating a visually appealing display of greenery.
You can use succulents for smaller suitcases or larger plants like ferns or rubber trees for bigger ones. This unique plant stand not only adds character to your space but also serves as a functional way to incorporate nature indoors.
Step 6: Travel-Inspired Bookshelf
Turn your vintage suitcases into a unique bookshelf by stacking them in tiers against a wall or in an unused corner. Begin with the largest suitcase at the bottom, placing it upright to create stability.
Add smaller suitcases on top, either stacked vertically or horizontally for a creative look.
Fill the suitcases with books of different sizes and colors, creating an interesting display that reflects your love of reading and travel. You can also mix in some decorative items such as vintage cameras or globes to enhance the travel-inspired theme.
Step 7: Vintage Pet Bed
Create a cozy bed for your furry friend by repurposing a vintage suitcase into a pet bed. Choose a medium-sized suitcase that opens up fully. Line the bottom of the suitcase with a soft blanket or cushion to create a comfortable sleeping space for your pet.
You can also add some extra padding by stuffing old T-shirts or towels into the sides of the suitcase. To complete the look, you can add decorative elements such as a name tag or small pillows on top of the lid.
Step 8: Creative Toy Storage
Transform vintage suitcases into functional storage solutions for your children’s toys. This approach not only adds character to their bedroom but also encourages them to keep their toys organized and tidy. Begin by selecting one or multiple suitcases, depending on the number of toys you need to store.
Fill the suitcase with toys, and for added organization, you can use dividers or trays. You can also label each suitcase according to the type of toys inside. This creative storage solution not only keeps clutter at bay but also adds a touch of nostalgia and playfulness to your child’s space.
Step 9: Vintage Bar Cart
Give your home bar a unique touch by repurposing a vintage suitcase into a stylish bar cart.
Choose a medium-sized suitcase that opens up fully, providing enough space for bottles and glasses.
Add some wooden dowels or brackets on one side of the lid to hold wine or liquor bottles securely in place. On the opposite side, you can attach hooks or small shelves to hold glasses and other bar accessories. The top of the suitcase can also serve as a space to display cocktail recipes or add some decorative elements.
This vintage bar cart not only adds character to your home but also serves as a functional and mobile way to serve drinks during gatherings and parties.
Step 10: Creative Gift Wrapping Station
Turn a vintage suitcase into a unique gift wrapping station by adding dividers, trays, and compartments for storing wrapping paper, ribbons, and other essentials. You can also attach a dowel onto one side of the lid to hold rolls of gift wrap securely in place.
On the opposite side, you can add hooks or small shelves to store scissors, tape, and other wrapping tools. This creative station not only saves space but also adds charm to your home and makes gift-wrapping more enjoyable.
Step 11: Vintage Photo Display
Transform vintage suitcases into a unique way to display your favorite photos and memories. Begin by lining the inside of the suitcase with a decorative fabric or paper that complements the color and style of the suitcase.
Next, attach small clips or clothespins onto the fabric or paper to hold photos in place. You can also add some decorative elements such as strings of fairy lights or dried flowers for an added touch of whimsy. This vintage photo display is not only a great conversation starter but also adds a personal touch to your home decor.
Step 12: Creative Side Table
Repurpose a vintage suitcase into a stylish and functional side table by adding legs or wheels to the bottom of the suitcase.
You can choose to keep the suitcase as is, or add a fresh coat of paint for a more modern look.
Use the inside of the suitcase to store books, magazines, or other items. The top of the suitcase can serve as space for a lamp, decorative items, or your morning coffee. This creative side table not only adds character to your living space but also serves as a practical addition to storage and functionality.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Can I Repurpose Any Type of Vintage Suitcase for These Projects?
A: While most suitcases can be repurposed, it is best to use sturdy and durable ones that are not damaged or fragile. Hard-shell suitcases tend to work better for structural projects such as shelves and plant stands, while soft-shell suitcases can be used for storage or decorative purposes.
Q: Do I Need Any Special Tools to Repurpose Vintage Suitcases?
A: The tools needed may vary depending on the project, but some essential tools that may come in handy are a drill, screwdriver, hammer, and hot glue gun. It is also helpful to have basic DIY supplies such as screws, brackets, and sandpaper.
Q: Where Can I Find Affordable Vintage Suitcases?
A: Thrift stores, flea markets, and online marketplaces like Etsy or eBay are great places to find affordable vintage suitcases.
You can also ask family and friends if they have any old suitcases they no longer need.
Following these steps on how to decorate with vintage suitcases and using your creativity, you can give new life to old suitcases and add unique and vintage touches to your home decor. Have fun with these projects and let your imagination guide you in repurposing vintage suitcases into creative and functional pieces for your home.
Conclusion
Repurposing vintage suitcases is not just a creative endeavor; it is an opportunity to add unique character and functionality to your home. From transforming them into charming plant stands and creative storage solutions to designing stylish side tables and gift-wrapping stations, the possibilities are endless.
Each project allows you to showcase your personal style while embracing sustainability by giving new life to old items.
Whether you prefer a bohemian, rustic, or modern aesthetic, these vintage suitcase ideas offer a delightful fusion of nostalgia and practicality that can enhance any living space.
Embrace your creativity and embark on a journey of transformation, one suitcase at a time. Thanks for reading this article on how to decorate with vintage suitcases.