Upcycled Vintage Suitcase | Thrifted Transformations Ep. 66

[@lovewisdomgrace]

Your upcycle project turned out super cute! A couple things I have learned over the years upcycling....hot glue is fast but doesn't last. It will eventually let loose especially if it ever freezes. One suggestion may be to use a glue called E6000 or use fabric tack with the hot glue. I would also use a magic eraser (found in cleaning aisle) to clean the surface of the suitcase. It may also scuff up the exterior a little too which is important for your next step...painting. You could use sandpaper to prep the surface too...or buy gesso and paint that on as a base. The important thing is to make the surface friendly to the paint. I'd also seal it. You can use a sealer you spray on or paint on. You'd need to tape off anything close to the area painted because of the over spray. There should be matte, semi gloss or gloss choices for the sealer or varnish. I'd stay away from mod podge as your top coat as it can feel sticky. Hope these tips help and I'd love to see more upcycle projects. 😊

[@coolirpa]

Great tips! Thanks so much!!!

[@gailgrimble2190]

lovewisdom grace I agree

[@RedBunnyFromMars]

If you don't want to spray seal it, you can do an acrylic varnish finish I'm pretty sure, just buy it in the same aisle the acrylics are stocked.

[@joyelleforjesus]

@@coolirpa thanks for the super great tutorial. I am about to use your idea to redo an older vintage hard makeup carrying bag. It’s going to be a Bible journaling family heirloom bag with a handmade Bible that’s already been started. I’m giving it to my daughter for Christmas. So this is a lovely lovely idea that I am really excited to try. Thank you so much. This lady here did a decoupage with napkins and paint. Thought you might like to see. kzbin.info/www/bejne/mXKwhJqDZ716a9U

[@sincerelyyours225]

I loooove how you show your mistakes and what you have to do to go back and fix them. You're very talented!

[@sdmfann7768]

Gorgeous! You can v cut the fabric in the corners to take away excess fabric. Loves your tutorial, keep up the good work! Shirley!!

[@shellsbellswac1]

I love how candid you are with your videos, showing what works and what doesn't. Thanks April! Super cute case!

[@debrtx]

Wow! The most inspiring transformation that is not a fashion item. I love your fashion transformations, but you are so creative & thinking out of the box. Quite amazing on this latest techno gadget!

[@rhoffman222]

Excellent job love!! Especially for your first time!! Please start doing this more. A white base coat or "primer" will make your color more true and vibrant. Also a top coat will change the finish whether it is matte, glossy, satin, or semi gloss. Also it will protect your flowers and or designs from chipping off. You can get an acrylic spay or brush on top coat. Just always make sure your paint is fully dry before brushing or spraying on. Also let it dry between layers of top coat. You can sand it down if it seems rough and bumpy. I wouldn't sand over the daisys though. Only if you do the back.

[@angelsinthewindow]

I would definitely put a top coat at the very least because acrylic tends to flake off of stuff other then paper. You wouldn't want to have all your hard work flake off.

[@Quntah888]

angelsinthewindow What kind of top coat would you use? I have no experience with this 😅

[@julhearts123]

Does clear mod podge work as top coat for acrylic paint?

[@angelsinthewindow]

Julhearts123 I have no idea if it will. I think it might but normally there is either a top coat or stuff that you can mix into the paint to make it grip better.

[@BDavis-rb6xn]

Mod podge would work but might not be durable enough if you're looking to protect a functioning suitcase or similar, it's better suited for purely decorative applications. I'd use something like clear spray paint or polyeurothane for something you'd really need to protect from wear and tear. That's the type of stuff wood workers typically use on furniture and it will work for acrylics. I'd also recommend lightly sanding any smooth surfaces (like the suitcase April used as well as metals, leathers, previously painted surfaces, etc.) to help the paint stick to base. I'd sand plastic surfaces more. Otherwise it won't matter what you put on top, the acrylic paint itself will flake off the surface you painted while the topcoat keeps sticking to the acrylics. (ps. sorry for being long winded, I always write novels for comments)

[@raynechantel2738]

Mod Podge won't last - use clear acrylic - can get it in spray or paint can and use a brush. Use several coats to protect your work.

[@kharlie22]

Love how this turned out!!! This would be great for a wedding card idea, hang pics of the couple in the top and all the cards in the bottom! As far as a top coat: You definitely should put one. You can do a coat or 2 of mod podge or the have plenty of spray sealants and kinds that you can brush on as well. You surely don't want that beautiful paint job to chip off.

[@shyannakwilson]

Acrylic Sealer will help keep the paint from scratching or chipping off! I paint rocks that sit outside and without the sealer, they would get completely ruined in the sun and rain, but the first one I did sat outside for years looking just as good as when I painted it.

[@ghostchild127]

If any of you want it to last a good while (if it were, say, a really lovely/unique vintage case), I would suggest using industrial strength glue or glue used for upholstery. Hot glue comes apart in cold/moist weather and melts in super hot weather (I live in CA and crafting is a pain), so it wouldn't take long for it to start peeling up or melting through the fabric. I think they might even make industrial strength hot glue sticks, but I haven't tried them. A tip for any crafter: *Always sew where you can, use the appropriate adhesive where you can't*

[@raraavis7782]

Kuroki Yami I totally agree! Hot glue is good for stuff that's just decorative, but it can't replace proper joining techniques...it just won't hold up to any kind of stress.

[@ajarofpotential]

Love your ideas and so appreciate the extra advice in the comments. Ive wanted to repurpose an old suitcase for ages and found a gem project last week. Your video is such an inspiring example and has me feeling much more confident about my project. Thank you🤗

[@KC-Mitch]

For someone not using shop tools, I'd say you did an excellent job. I didn't think it'd be possible to do the interior without sanding and using fabric glue. I love the suitcase! Very excellent work!

[@lilliearizona]

I have a hard time believing that anyone would criticise your hard work. Now I am inspired. And I want to buy one of my own, and recreate a piece I could actually use. I know how to pack small. And it is pretty after you finished.

[@me68206]

Wow, you are so talented! You did a super job! This would make a great case for storing old photos, too, the ones that get passed down in families. I could see myself using something like this to store craft or sewing supplies. A tip for those contemplating such a project: you might use the old lining as a pattern to cut new lining. Not a necessity at all but if you have a limited amount of fabric, it might come in handy.

[@elizabethdavis5893]

My boyfriend bought me an old make-up case. This gives me an idea on how to do it. If you want the paint to last longer add a clear top coat. You did an amazing job.

[@mariam-ch4in]

You are one of those very rare people that are talented in literally everything

[@jenniferfrederick1834]

I love this! I particularly love your lining. I did a smaller case like this almost 10 years ago. I painted it, then used modge podge to attach magazines pictures and seal it. I use it as my makeup holder and it's still going strong. Your paint job is fantastic!

[@lettuceshredder2829]

"this was only my second time painting with acrylics..." *goes on to paint a masterpiece*

[@esyoon03]

as a beginner sewer, I absolutely lovE watching your creations and ideas!!! it's very inspiring!!

[@flowandacrawford3410]

Thanks to you I know thrift a LOT more. I also craft. I've found that E6000 Is the best for almost anything you want to glue. It's even holds after being washed in the machine. Hope this help and thank you for the great inspiration you've have given me. Many blessings and much success in your future.

[@Morganzuhmakess]

I repurposed two suitcases a few years back and turned them into bed side tables! I just added thick dowels I had stained for legs and reupholstered the interior! They’re super cute!! I love the flowers you painted on the exterior of yours!

[@kaileehenderson6444]

So cool to see someone from my high school do something so cool and become known on KZbin. Bronco strong 🐴💙💛

[@islandmixgurl711]

Vista Broncos? I was surprised to find out she lived out here. I was like OMG lol.

[@christinakuzmyn3270]

I love the daisies, you did such a great job!

[@coolirpa]

thank you love!

[@sarahgieseke6121]

To add to the bedside table idea, some hair pin legs under this would make it into an instant table that you could leave closed because the sunflowers are amazingly cute. As you say, the possibilities are endless. But the transformation is really cute with lots of great ideas for me to try. Thanks for stepping outside your usual fashion projects to this. Fearless is a great way to be.

[@ChocolatTherapy]

are u kidding me?? just painting perfect beautiful flowers out of nowhere. are you real?? you are too talented

[@ArtisticAsian1014]

I love the painting of daisies and as someone who paints with acrylic I totally agree that the process part of painting looks weird and only towards the end does it look nicer. When I paint I most of the time think the pieces isn't coming out the way I want but what I was taught is if it looks "wrong" take a break from working on that part. That is makes sure you leave it in a spot where you can fix it if need be. In terms of base coat, I usually use one solid color usually white but depends on the background/most of the colors of my paining on canvas.

[@EmmaMitchellx]

DEFINITELY use a top coat such as polyurethane just to seal in the paint as it will chip over time.

[@AGirlCalledLevi]

you could lay the fabric inside the case, put weights at the corners and pinch out curved darts (mark and then stitch them) in the corners to make the fabric fit cleanly. Also, there are permanent spray adhesives that work far better than hot glue for this kind of thing (like Super 77 - but make sure you spray and air it out in a well-ventilated place). Outside of that, I thought this was pretty great! Also, knotting the ends of the string and then gluing them down will give you a stronger hold.

[@MalinaCC]

This is so cute! Never would have thought to upcycle a suitcase this way. The printer thing is super cool😍 Can you do an upcycle for graduation gowns?

[@LoveSasukeKai]

I would love to see more repurposing videos that aren't fashion! And I've seen people use varnish to seal acrylics, it helps keep it from chipping. However if you'll only use this for decoration I'm not sure it's needed.

[@ashleylaughter4077]

for the glue I use spray adhesive for car ceiling liner, works really quick lasts a long time and the can also lasts a long time because you don't need much. plus for a good long lasting "top" coat or sealer I use kylon gloss coat. (they have matte too) they last are usually water proof or resistant. plus they give a nice depth to the painting. ( I used it on a painting once, left it outside to dry forgot it was there and when I found it a couple days later it had rained the painting was perfect and still shiny) also it's pretty cheap 4$ or so a can and it can also last a good long time

[@BaileyBudd]

As always your creativity is awe inspiring! I love the way you tie in your sponsors in such fun ways.

[@kenedeighbara2188]

I have a set like this that belonged to my great grandparents. When they passed I wanted them because I’d be moving 1,000 mi away from home. You’ve inspired me! ❤️

[@emilyolguin5019]

I'm still a beginner too but I've always used mod podge to seal the paint on any clothes or shoes that I've painted. Hope that helps! It looks great!

[@jesshothersall]

You can also use chalk paint on the outside, I've even painted an outside galvanised handrail with it, and two years on, it still looks fine, no undercoat/prep required beyond the cleaning you did. Does need a wax coat after to keep clean and decorative, though probably not tough enough if you used the case as a suitcase bumping it around.

[@uwum0nster]

wow april! so glad youre branching out with your thrifted transformations! lots of fun stuff for you to try out!!

[@karenrobertson890]

What a great video! I have thrifted a train case and a suitcase to redo but have been afraid to start. Thanks for the inspiration. Yours is super cute! I love it as a display case.

[@princesssadieloo]

You never cease to amaze me, fantastic job!!!!Beautiful paint job!!!

[@ylimeroxs]

It looks awesome! For a base you should really use jesso, it's a primer that works on a lot of different surfaces. And a top coat is really going to prevent the paint from chipping on the suitcase. Even a layer of mod podge works

[@chariabubu]

Repurposing items is awesome!! You did a great job on that suitcase. Nice painting skills, too!! Great video!! 👍^^

[@TruthOrClaire]

That's such a cute idea to have it as decor for your table! I never would have guessed that was your first time painting. It looks great!

[@nooramisya3364]

OMG.. the corkboard and the pics was amazing! never would have thought of that..

[@elderberryjamz3654]

Lol @ your bf taping off the border, that was so cute. And yes to painting DIYs!

[@ltellis63]

Great upcycle project! For future reference, there are lots of permanent spray adhesives you can use if you prefer over hot glue.

[@CountryMusicGirl08]

This is so cute! And as for base coats/top coats, a base coat isn't particularly needed for this, but i like using clear or white gesso, when i paint. Also, i would definitely recommend a top coat so the paint won't chip off, mod podge can definitely work, it isn't the best, but it does the job, i'd recommend a spray sealant (like you would use for glitter) or a clear glaze of some kind(probably isn't very practical for this, and is harder to find) hope this helped! :)

[@Whitney_Sews]

It turned out so adorable! I love vintage suitcases.

[@serojasalim]

You really have no limits to your talents! Keep thriving 💕

[@lakynnewcomb7128]

I've had a suitcase I bought from Goodwill for $3.00 a few years ago...it's a little bigger than yours though. Have you considered taking your idea of turning the suitcase into a table and making it happen? I'd love some advice on how to turn the one I have into a coffee table for my new college apartment as it didn't come with one. Love your vids & keep up the great work!❤

[@iseleylaura]

Decoupage of photos/old-book-text is also an awesome way to line insides of suitcases, drawers, furniture, etc. As for the paint, there are tons of varnishes available to help protect your painting :)

[@sydneylehr5858]

I'd definitely use some sort of sealer so your hard work doesn't get ruined. I've used spray on sealers before that work well and come in different finishes. I personally like a glossy finish and I totally recommend spraying them outside since they do smell.

[@seratonin7004]

Such an amazing job! Don't worry so much about small imperfections - they're just a sign that it's handmade with love, rather than a cookie cutter production line item. 💕

[@Koda1608]

Totally love this tutorial!! I have a suit case I didn't know what to do with and now I know EXACTLY what to do!!! Thank you for your great ideas!!!!!!!!! 💖

[@johexxkitten]

In the last week I have just found in our attic, a suitcase like this one but bigger. It still on of those cardboard suitcases... but it is also stuffed full of original 1980s clothing! I have no idea why I kept these items, but I did... 🙄 So many memories in that case.

[@VirgoLunaKnight]

Jo HexxKitten wow 😍

[@h0ebart]

Irpa! Amazing dude! You're so creative. I LOVE the way the flowers came out. You're a jack of all creative trades!

[@lhyrastark5212]

That suitcase is super cute! The painting is very pretty too! I wish I could paint like that. I might try doing that. BTW, that polaroid camera is very perfect for us millennials. So cool!

[@natalielong4348]

This is so cool! I would love more videos of upcycled things other than clothes bc I'm terrible at sewing!!!! I have a bunch of motivation to go repurpose something now!!

[@HeyyBrey]

I would totally recommend using magic erasers for cleaning items like this. It will remove a ton of different kinds of stains or marks! You did a GREAT job! So so so cute!!!!🌼🌼🌼🌼

[@coolirpa]

whooa what is that?? thanks for the tip!!

[@HeyyBrey]

Also, depending on the type of material you are using Mod Podge is a great way to seal in paint! Probably not for fabric items like this, but for things like wood and glass it's great!

[@HeyyBrey]

Oh it's in the cleaning isle!! It has the Mr. Clean man on it. They are little white sponges with baking soda in them! Just use a damp rag after using it to wipe away any residue! :)

[@coolirpa]

ahhh thanks so much! yeah i was thinking about using mod podge on top but didn't have any at the moment :)

[@norisahyussup7448]

HeyyBrey

[@pandalove2952]

you did an amazing job < 1- you can use a thing named matt varnish to the outside of the suitcase to make the paint stay as long as Possible , 2- you could use sandpaper to prep the surface of the suitcase before painting . > Hope these tips help and I'd love to see more upcycle projects. keep up the amazing job you did ^-^

[@ginnygriffin2148]

If this is just a show piece I wouldn't worry about a top coat, but if you will be using this often or if it will be getting played with by a kid or something then I would suggest at the very least a top coat of mod podge. For a first time using acrylics you're pretty great! Love it!

[@deannajohnson3933]

Those daisies are so pretty! I love that.

[@cup.of.ccino_]

Been wanting prynt for so long! But you just made it look even more cooler!!! ♥️ love your diy's girl 😘

[@tomboyz151]

Yes, more repurposed videos!! And your paint skills are amazing!! 😍

[@kellymartin2603]

Aw, sweet boi. It's adorable that your boyfriend just started masking off the sides for you, even if it turned out to be unnecessary. Super thoughtful.

[@BlackDawnYaoiLover]

Not sure about base and top coats (aside from a flexible sealant), but when working with acrylic like that, on a flexible surface, you should use fabric medium so that it won't flake off down the road. Acrylic is great for a lot of projects, but it tends to flake off and get hard when it's been dry for a long time, so fabric medium just mixes in and makes it great for long wear, even on clothes (where you can also wash it~!)

[@michellebarrett123]

You did a great job!! I love it! Gave me ideas for my daughter’s Xmas present. They love suitcases!! Have you ever heard of all in one paint or farmhouse paint company.? The paint has primer and sealer in with the paint!! Love to see more paint projects!!😊michelle

[@onerandomnerdygirl2306]

Oh my gosh. That picture to video thing looks awesome. Also the case looks so cool!!

[@pherylo]

Love this!! I see cute, vintage suitcases at antique stores all the time and always want to get one. Definitely need to try this out!!

[@nicoleesola8023]

Love your content!! Keep up the awesome work. You have inspired me to revamp my closet & step out of my comfort zone when creating new things

[@shadymccoy7]

Great project! You did awesome for your first time! Another project like this would be great!

[@ivonntorres8343]

This is so cute and a creative way to use an upcycled suitcase, your art skills are legit 💙💚

[@Puppy52]

Awesome! I think to have the paint stick on better (or not peel off later) it would be better to paint a primer first, but you did well, I lobe the design you painted outside and the cute fabric used inside!

[@shelbyhiromi]

For something like a suitcase that is going to get a lot of wear, it is really important to seal the paint with a something like a spray varnish when using acrylic because it can easily be scraped off. If it’s for more of a decoration then it’s not totally necessary, but if you plan on ever taking it to travel it would be a good idea (especially when checking the bag)

[@laurawences4205]

i've come across so many vintage suitcases and i always wanted to upcycle it but didn't know how. thank you so much!

[@prisillaspace]

Pretty! Decoupage is my favorite. ...since my sewing skills are basic. Thanks! 😊

[@hmmmqu]

You are AMAZING for your first time doing something new it looks WONDERFUL

[@tonimeow3071]

I have recently been researching paint and stuff to customize my roller skates, I recommend looking up Angelus paints videos on customizing and also revamping sneakers because its specifically leather and fabric paint and they have tutorials And tips on how to use their product in different things, there are a lot of videos on people repainting shoes I would love to see your take on that for anything from boots to high heels or sneakers because you're very creative with your work, anyways I feel like even if you don't want paint they have pretty paint prep and finishes also, I'm not sure how acrylic holds up on stuff

[@GTH999]

Really enjoy your videos. You are so talented and creative. Great paint job!

[@TheUnicornMoe]

you should definitely use some sort of primer and topcoat, depending on the material, if you want to do another painting thing like that. that will peel and chip so fast. if you do use a top coat make sure to cover the corners and edges because that where the chipping will start. definitely a great painting though! i was surprised when you said it was your second time. nice.

[@barbifaye8719]

I REALLY LOVED this video! REPURPOSE and recycle more stuff; it's the way of the future!

[@michellecourtney780]

for acrylic paint you can use gesso as both a bottom coat and a top coat. or use a medium which you can get in any store that sells acrylic paint

[@LaineyBug2020]

Just discovered your channel & am now binge watching all your transformations! Have you thought about doing a wedding dress version out of thrifted prom dresses? I would love to see what you could come up with!

[@enjael9254]

This turned out so cute, would love to see more like this.

[@cambr3lla]

I think you should use a top coat if you plan on using it outside of the house. Idk if you planned on using it as an actual suitcase but before you do definitely go over it with the top coat. It will chip and the paint will get sticky if it rains

[@melodymendez5274]

Beautiful suitcase! I would recommend putting a sealant on the painting so it doesn't chip 😃

[@theresanovak4199]

Great daisies! I had a dress with that print as a child. Love it!

[@Tina06019]

Very nice work. I would put some kind of sealant over that beautiful artwork, but I am sure that the other posters can advise you about that better than I can.

[@tatatinaa]

So much vision and patience!! Great video... just subscribed 💕💕💕

[@Littlemissmayhem97]

When you finished painting with the acrylic did you seal it with any type of sealer? You may find over time that the acrylic paint starts to either chips or peel away without one maybe at some point grab a sealer and seal the paint in looks amazing tho ☺️

[@nancymarkey4840]

I love how you did this suitcase!! I think you did a very good job!!

[@sejas19]

Wow. Just found your channel and the imagination and creativity is amazing. I so wanna try this as a statement travel piece ❤

[@foreverccmli]

Would love to see more re-purposing videos! They are super neat.

[@wxclim8]

I thought you were going to use it as luggage. I'd totally buy that! It looks great as a display/table stand. Might also be cute as a cosmetic case when you're traveling.

[@09tenshi]

love the suitcase transformation,especially the paint.

[@donnadockal3873]

Wow! You are so talented! That is adorable!

[@stevecoulson8349]

TIP: Use a thimble on one or two fingers adhering fabric to a surface with hot glue. your finger tips won't get burnt

[@Tina06019]

Good idea.

[@nancypalmer6729]

steve coulson BRILLIANT!

[@maggotbrain8593]

Yes please do more of everything! You are really awesome!💚👌🏻🙌🏼

[@sberrysrtcakes3810]

I love the suit case. you did a great job. you should do more of these projects.

[@linndzh]

Wow I didn't know I would enjoy a suit case transformation this much. I kinda prefer the baby pink interior, but the final product also turned out super cute!! Oh and love the ad haha❤

[@melodybensch3695]

You are so creative! Love the finished product!

[@carmenstgermain8557]

I love the bedside table idea ...Very useful repurposing