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Do you have a trunk?

What would you like to do with your trunk?

 Is it a family heirloom from the past? Does its uniqueness and style appeal to you?

Once you've answered these questions, we can get started on bringing your trunk back to life.

First, we'll look at the exterior and determine whether it is canvas-covered, metal, or wood. From there, we'll evaluate the colors and any repairs needed to restore it as closely as possible to its original condition—from the bottom rollers to the handles and trim, whether brown, black, or another finish.

Next, we'll inspect the locks, latches, decorative metal rosettes, and corner hardware to determine what restoration work may be needed.

Then we'll move to the inside of the trunk. You have three options:

• Plywood (birch or oak)
• Wallpaper
• Fabric

For most trunks, we remove the old wallpaper and either leave the interior natural or apply a stained satin finish.

The next step is choosing a theme.

I'll also need to know whether you'd like a tray. If you already have one, we can work with it. If not, I can build one for you. Trays are usually stained to match the exterior wood slats of the trunk. I always recommend having one made while the trunk is in the shop. It's much easier than bringing the trunk back later if you decide you want a tray after the restoration is complete.

A tray can be stored under a bed or in a closet until you're ready to use it. They're perfect for keeping small items organized—those special keepsakes, treasured photos, and other meaningful belongings that can easily get lost in the shuffle.

It's also helpful to know how you plan to use the trunk. 

Will it be for storage at the foot of a bed, holding blankets, sheets, or pillowcases? Some people use trunks as coffee tables with a glass top, while others use them as toy boxes to keep children's toys organized in one place. They're also great for storing hunting gear and other seasonal items that always seem to disappear right when you need them most.

I also have reference books that can help determine the age of your trunk, which is often helpful during the restoration process.

Remember, back in the day, trunks were often the only possessions people had to carry with them when moving from one place to another. They hold history, memories, and stories worth preserving.

I also keep a selection of trunks available for purchase—perfect for unique gifts for friends and loved ones who appreciate keeping a piece of the past alive.

I am so glad that you chose me to help preserve a part of the past! God Bless.