Steamer trunks gained their name from when they were first used for traveling across the ocean in steamers. Meant to hold clothing or other personal belongings, they were frequently used on long journeys. Steamer trunks were built to last but may need some refurbishing to be used again today. When re-lining the inside of a steamer trunk, it’s possible to use, wood, fabric or even wallpaper.
- Fabric
- Paint scraper
- Water bottle
- Vinegar
- Spray contact glue
- Poster board
Scrape out any remaining liner with a paint scraper. If it is lined with old paper, spraying it first with a water bottle full of half-vinegar and half-water will help soften any old glue remaining.
Fill in any gaps in the trunk with a thin piece of fabric. Cut the fabric to the specific length and width of the gap, gluing it down and allowing it to dry completely.
Measure the inside dimensions of the trunk for each of the surfaces that you plan to line with fabric. You’ll use these measurements to cut a corresponding piece of poster board. You should have measurements for the bottom, both ends, both sides and the top if you plan to line that as well.
Cut the poster board according to the measurements for each surface. Now cut and glue the fabric onto each piece of poster board.
Spray the inside surface with spray contact glue and place the fabric-covered piece of poster board inside, with the fabric facing up. Do this with every piece of poster board covered with fabric. Allow the glue to dry completely.
Fill your trunk with treasures, memorabilia, blankets, toys or other items.
Things You'll Need
References
- Shenandoah Antique Restoration: Restore Your Antique Trunk Yourself Rather Than Have Us Do It
- "Antique Trunks"; Pat Morse, et al.; December 2003
- "Antique Trunks: Refinish, Repair, Restore"; Pat Morse, et al.; January 2002
About the Author
Andre Zollars started writing in 1999, when she worked in the editorial department at "The Missoulian." She has been published in "Endovascular Today," "High Country Angler," "Outside Bozeman" and "Western Ag Reporter." She also has written for online magazines New West, Hunting and Fishing USA. Zollars holds a Bachelor of Arts in international studies from the University of Washington.
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