Old Suitcase Repurposed into a Table

How to repurpose a vintage suitcase into a table

I recently found an old suitcase in the garage of my Daughters new home.  The previous owners had left it behind to be thrown out. My head went straight into overdrive thinking “What can I make with this”.  My first thought was a suitcase table.

How to repurpose a vintage suitcase into a table

I knew I had lots of legs laying around in my workshop that I had harvested of old free broken furniture, So I went with the Suitcase table idea. If you do regular DIY and want to keep your cost low this post may help you. These are the methods I use to find free materials for all my projects. 

How to Make a Suitcase Table

**This post may contain affiliate links. Which means I earn a small commission on links used at no extra cost to you. Please see my disclosure policy for more information.**

Find a Vintage Suitcase

You need a vintage suitcase to make this project, these can be found a thrift store. Another good place to look for suitcases is on Facebook marketplace.  This was the suitcase that I started with, which had a canvas feel to the surface.  You start by cleaning up the suitcase with a cloth, warm water and detergent.  Do not soak the surface or it will become soggy.

How to make a Vintage suitcase table

Adding the world Map

A few years ago, I ordered 2 of these world maps online but I never had the correct project to use them on.  This suitcase table was the perfect project. To flatten the map, you may need to iron the back using a hot iron with no steam. Here is a similar map if you like the look of mine.

How to repurpose a vintage suitcase into a table

Using some mod podge or suitable decoupage glue add a thin even layer to the suitcase then smooth the poster down with your hand.  I found it better to do small areas at a time to prevent the poster from getting too soggy, which will cause the paper to tier.

How to repurpose a vintage suitcase into a table

The poster that I used was a bit small for this project, so at the back, I had to do some patchwork.

How to repurpose a vintage suitcase into a table

To clean up the edges around the locks you can use a craft knife to cut away the excess paper.

How to repurpose a vintage suitcase into a table

As hard as I tried to put an even coat of glue, I did have a couple of small bubble in the map once it dried. To get them to stick down to the suitcase again, I used so glue in a syringe and poked it into the bubble and pushed it back down again.

How to repurpose a vintage suitcase into a table

Sealing the suitcase

To protect the surface of the suitcase you can now seal the surface.  You can use mod podge, but I find this method expensive for such a large surface. This case was sealed using 2 coats of clear water-based polyurethane. The first coat should be applied very thin, so you don’t soak the paper.  Using a foam paint roller works well. You can paint the locks and handle if you chose, I wanted mine to look old to match the suitcase.

How to repurpose a vintage suitcase into a table

Making the stand

My first idea to make the stand was to cut a piece of wood the size of the base and just attach the legs which I did.  But this did not work, the table was so wobbly, it bounced around at the slightest touch.

How to repurpose a vintage suitcase into a table

My second attempt was to put the base inside the suitcase, but this was not much better. I am mentioning my failures, so you don’t do the same mistakes I did.

How to repurpose a vintage suitcase into a table

What finally worked was to add extra wood to the bottom before I added the base. This allows the legs to be screwed deeper into the wood giving more stability to the table.

How to repurpose a vintage suitcase into a table

Covering the inside of the suitcase

A few years back I made a chaise lounge using world map fabric and had some leftover.  It was not a perfect match because it was a lighter world map fabric but it would be inside the suitcase. All the fabric was attached using a hot glue gun. Start at the top and add glue along the seam, fold the fabric under and smooth out onto the glue. This will keep all the seams tidy, or you can iron the seams before you glue them. Next, you can glue the fabric to the sides of the suitcase.

How to repurpose a vintage suitcase into a table

You can now add the base to the bottom of the suitcase using the hot glue gun.

How to repurpose a vintage suitcase into a table

Cut the last piece of fabric to size and glue the front seam first, add some hot glue at the bottom and push the fabric into the glue.  Repeat this step across the bottom and back up to the other side.

How to repurpose a vintage suitcase into a table

To keep the fabric secure across the bottom and sides, add some hot glue where the two fabrics join.

How to repurpose a vintage suitcase into a table

Painting and ageing the legs

These are the legs I repurpose from an old dresser that was beyond repair.  You can use an orbital sander to remove all the old paint.

How to repurpose a vintage suitcase into a table

Paint the legs whichever colour you want. I only had white chalk paint at the time which was not the best.  The colour was too bright and new looking to match the dated look of the suitcase.

How to repurpose a vintage suitcase into a table

To give the legs a more aged look I used some dark wax over the white chalk paint.

How to repurpose a vintage suitcase into a table

Fitting the legs

To fit the legs, you can drill a pilot hole from the bottom into the wood inside the suitcase.  Be careful not to drill all the way through and snag the fabric in the drill.

How to repurpose a vintage suitcase into a table

Next, screw the legs in place with screws long enough to go into both pieces of wood inside.  This will also keep the wood inside from moving if the hot glue does not hold over time. You can see the difference in the colour of the legs with and without the dark wax in this image. Just pretend my workshop is tidy. lol

How to repurpose a vintage suitcase into a table

Complete suitcase table

How to repurpose a vintage suitcase into a table

How to repurpose a vintage suitcase into a table

Vintage suitcase table

How to make a suitxase side table

The inside would be great storage for books or even a bar stand.

How to repurpose a vintage suitcase into a table

Some more great projects for you

Have you ever heard of Unicorn Spit Stain and glaze? If you haven’t you are missing out. This product is an awesome coloured stain that can be used on many surfaces. Chair Makeover

Chair makeover

Unicorn spit stain and glaze is stunning when added to glass and it is so easy even a child can do it.

How to use unicorn spit on glass

Pin me

How to upcycle a vintage suitcase

Vintage suitcase ideas

If you are looking for any of the items used in this project, please consider using our links. By clicking on the links we will earn a small commission at no extra cost to you.  Which helps us come up with new and exciting ideas to share with you.

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94 Comments

  • Reply
    Claire
    July 26, 2020 at 9:30 pm

    I love the world map on the suitcase and map fabric. It all looks fabulous.

    • Reply
      Anita Holland
      July 27, 2020 at 11:22 am

      Thank you so much Claire, I had the fabric and map for so long, I was just waiting for the right project.

  • Reply
    Jasmine Goodwin
    July 26, 2020 at 11:32 pm

    I love the world map on the suitcase, what a great idea, it looks beautiful.

    • Reply
      Anita Holland
      July 27, 2020 at 11:23 am

      Thank you so much Jasmine, That is very kind of you to say.

  • Reply
    Danielle Siero
    July 27, 2020 at 12:17 am

    Wow! This turned out so cool!

  • Reply
    Marie-Interior Frugalista
    July 27, 2020 at 4:00 am

    Very nice suitcase repurpose, Anita! I love how everything to make it is from salvaged materials. Love how you covered the suitcase with old world map paper.

    • Reply
      Anita Holland
      July 27, 2020 at 11:25 am

      Thank you Marie, I have so much salvaged materials in my shed it has taken me all weekend to repack it. A great way to keep my hobby cheap.

    • Reply
      Deana Landers
      July 28, 2020 at 4:38 am

      Anita, this such a great idea. Not only is it unique but provides storage too. I like the world map, too. You are so creative 💙

      • Reply
        Anita Holland
        July 31, 2020 at 11:13 am

        Thanks Deana, They can have a few uses. I saw one that was used as a minibar which was very cute.

  • Reply
    Robyn Garner
    July 27, 2020 at 8:28 pm

    Honestly, this is just wonderful.

  • Reply
    Michelle Leslie
    July 27, 2020 at 9:57 pm

    OMW!!!!!!! What a beauty Anita. I would pay big bucks for one of those. Inside and out she’s stunning. One of the BEST suitcase repurposes I’ve seen.

    • Reply
      Anita Holland
      July 31, 2020 at 11:08 am

      Thank you so much,m your comments always make my day. You are so kind.

  • Reply
    Lori Nell
    July 27, 2020 at 10:02 pm

    Great tutorial. Love the map on the suitcase.

    • Reply
      Anita Holland
      July 31, 2020 at 11:10 am

      Thank you so much Lori, The map is really much prettier in real life the photos don’t do the detail justice.

  • Reply
    Maria Brittis
    July 27, 2020 at 10:25 pm

    What an amazing job, i did one a few months ago and it wasn’t easy.

    • Reply
      Anita Holland
      July 31, 2020 at 11:11 am

      Thank you so much Maria, I do agree with you, these cases are very fiddly to do, but pretty in the end.

  • Reply
    Sara
    July 27, 2020 at 11:09 pm

    Stunning inside and out; impeccably done! This is my favourite suitcase upcycle 🙂

    • Reply
      Anita Holland
      July 31, 2020 at 11:11 am

      Thank you so much Sara, I really do appreciate the comment that is so kind of you to say.

  • Reply
    Julie
    July 28, 2020 at 2:32 am

    This is super cool Anita, what a great upcycle!

  • Reply
    creativejewishmom/sara
    July 28, 2020 at 8:41 pm

    Wow, this is gorgeous! thanks so much for inspiring us with your thriftyness and handyness on craft schooling Sunday!

    • Reply
      Anita Holland
      July 31, 2020 at 11:14 am

      Thank you so much, I am really happy that I can offer some inspiration to others.

  • Reply
    Lydia C. Lee
    July 29, 2020 at 7:09 am

    You’re so clever – that’s really cute!

    • Reply
      Anita Holland
      July 31, 2020 at 11:15 am

      Thank you so much, that is very nice of you to say.

  • Reply
    Angie @ Postcards from the Ridge
    July 29, 2020 at 11:07 pm

    Such a cute makeover and upcycle! Love the travel theme for a suitcase…perfect.

    • Reply
      Anita Holland
      July 31, 2020 at 11:16 am

      Thank you, Angie. The map just seemed to be the right theme for the suitcase.

  • Reply
    Cherelle | The Inspired Prairie
    July 30, 2020 at 2:17 am

    Hi Anita,

    The suitcase/table project is simply beautiful and so creative! I have a link up party called, “Embracing Home and Family” that happens on Friday’s over on my blog The Inspired Prairie, and would love to have you link up this project with us!

    • Reply
      Anita Holland
      July 31, 2020 at 11:17 am

      Thank you so much, I will pop over and join your party.

  • Reply
    Jo (A Rose Tinted World)
    July 30, 2020 at 3:14 am

    What a fabulous upcycle project. Love the vintage map! I’d adore one of those in my house. Pinning this for later.

    • Reply
      Anita Holland
      July 31, 2020 at 11:21 am

      Thank you so much jo, These suitcases have become very popular now, so many great projects you can make with them.

  • Reply
    Susan
    July 30, 2020 at 9:44 am

    I have an older home and I love these creative types of projects that repurpose vintage items! It’s pretty and practical!

    • Reply
      Anita Holland
      July 31, 2020 at 11:22 am

      Thank you so much Susan, They are pretty and practical and have so many uses. Pity It does not suit my house lol

  • Reply
    T'onna | Sew Crafty Crochet
    July 30, 2020 at 1:00 pm

    Amazing! You did a flawless job adding the map to the suitcase! Your table looks fabulous!! Thanks so much for sharing at the Snickerdoodle Create Bake Make Link Party!!!

    • Reply
      Anita Holland
      July 31, 2020 at 11:23 am

      Thank you so much for the lovely comment, I really do appreciate it.

      • Reply
        T'onna | Sew Crafty Crochet
        August 2, 2020 at 7:12 am

        I chose your fabulous table as one of my features at today’s Snickerdoodle Create Bake Make Link Party!! Have a great weekend!!

        • Reply
          Anita Holland
          August 3, 2020 at 10:16 am

          Thank you so much for the feature on my suitcase table it is greatly appreciated.

  • Reply
    Ann
    July 31, 2020 at 12:31 pm

    Wonderful project and thanks for the tips on attaching the legs! Thank you for sharing at Party In Your PJ’s.

    • Reply
      Anita Holland
      August 1, 2020 at 1:56 pm

      Thank you so much Ann, The legs did take a few goes, but came good in the end.

  • Reply
    Chas Greener
    August 1, 2020 at 6:11 am

    What a fun transition and giving that little suitcase a purpose again. Love how it turned out and thanks for sharing.

  • Reply
    mireille
    August 1, 2020 at 11:39 am

    It is beautiful! When i saw the first picture I thought the suitcase was originally with the map so I was amazed to see that you created the whole outside and inside of it!
    http://www.chezmireillefashiontravelmom.com

    • Reply
      Anita Holland
      August 1, 2020 at 1:58 pm

      Thank you so much, the map was well suited to the case table.

  • Reply
    Clearissa Coward
    August 2, 2020 at 2:06 am

    This was a labor of love. You put so much into upcycling this old suitcase that otherwise would have ended up as trash. It is a beautiful addition to your home. I love the legs you chose. It is beautiful. I had heard of unicorn spit a while back and forgotten about it. I will have to do some research. Thank you for sharing with us. We were very happy that you chose to link up with #omhgww and your post will be socialized if buttons are available. Have a wonderful day.

    • Reply
      Anita Holland
      August 3, 2020 at 10:15 am

      Thank you so much for the kind comment. It did take a lot of effort because a few things I tried did not work.

  • Reply
    Linda Primmer
    August 3, 2020 at 12:52 am

    Anita, this is amazing. Such a fun and creative project. I am happy to feature you at Love Your Creativity.

    • Reply
      Anita Holland
      August 3, 2020 at 10:17 am

      Thank you so much, Linda. I really do appreciate the feature on your website.

  • Reply
    lisa
    August 3, 2020 at 7:09 am

    You did an amazing job! Oh and the inside is perfect!

    • Reply
      Anita Holland
      August 3, 2020 at 10:18 am

      Thank you Lisa, it was lucky I had leftover fabric from a previous project which was suitable for this suitcase.

  • Reply
    Marilyn
    August 3, 2020 at 10:47 am

    Thank you for hosting! This is what I featured the week of 7-27 to 8-1 on my blog. On Tuesday was Spanokopita aka Spinach Pie. Wednesday was a Strawberry Puree. Thursday were Chocolate Whoopie Pies. And winding up this week was my post, Tip Friday Scraping the Bowl. Enjoy!

    • Reply
      Anita Holland
      August 3, 2020 at 10:54 pm

      Thank you so much for the great feature, see you next week.

  • Reply
    Marilyn
    August 3, 2020 at 10:48 am

    ********************************************************
    Thank you for sharing at #OverTheMoon. Pinned and shared. Have a lovely week. I hope to see you at next week’s party too! Please stay safe and healthy. Come party with us at Over The Moon! Catapult your content Over The Moon! @marilyn_lesniak @EclecticRedBarn
    ********************************************************

  • Reply
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  • Reply
    Michelle
    August 5, 2020 at 7:50 am

    I totally love this! It’s such a pretty an interesting piece of furniture. I will be featuring it in this week’s Creative Compulsions.

    Michelle
    https://mybijoulifeonline.com

    • Reply
      Anita Holland
      August 5, 2020 at 8:30 am

      Thank you so much Michelle that is very kind of you. xx

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      Anita Holland
      August 5, 2020 at 12:45 pm

      Thank you for the feature on my suitcase table, I really do appreciate it.

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  • Reply
    Creatively Beth
    August 6, 2020 at 1:29 am

    Brilliant upcycle! I love old suitcases but normally shy away from the really shabby ones. Now I don’t have to! I’d love for you to join us over at the Creative Crafts Linky Party https://creativelybeth.com/creative-crafts-linky-party-1-join-in-the-fun/
    Have a great week!
    Creatively, Beth

    • Reply
      Anita Holland
      August 6, 2020 at 11:08 am

      Thank you so much, I will pop over and join the party.

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      Anita Holland
      August 6, 2020 at 11:10 am

      Thank you so much for the feature on my suitcase table.

  • Reply
    Maria
    August 6, 2020 at 2:54 am

    I love this! So clever!

    • Reply
      Anita Holland
      August 6, 2020 at 11:11 am

      Thank you so much, Maria, that is very nice of you to say. x

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  • Reply
    Linda
    August 11, 2020 at 2:07 am

    I LOVE WITH MAPS!!! My Daddy taught me to read maps before I started school! I’m 64 years young and when Hubby & I of 45 yrs. travel I use my maps and he uses his GPS. I find our destination faster on my map faster than he can on his GPS! The ONLY TIME I used a GPS we were in the Hill Country of Texas and looking for a house that was for sale. That female that tells you where to turn, told us to turn down this dirt road, we did and she said,”YOU HAVE REACHED YOUR FINAL DESTINATION!” We looked at each other and straight ahead and each other and I called that GPS gal a few bad names and my wonderful just laughed!!! SHE TOOK US TO AN OLD CEMETERY!!!! NOT YET!!! so it’s good o’l paper maps for the Navigator!!! And NOPE we didn’t look for that house any more! I have used maps to cover a few thing. My Mom had giving me the post card that my Granddad sent home to his “Girls” with very short messages, “I’ll be home to my girls soon!” He worked with the CCD building National Parks. I had been collecting post cards since I was young and our family traveled on vacations. Mom gave me a wooden silverware box. She said, “Here, do something with this.” I took it home, gutted it sanded it and covered it in an extra National Park Map I had. I put wooden feet on the bottom and aged the map with strong coffee. It became home to my Granddad’s wonderful post cards. My Mom was so pleased.
    I was wondering if it you covered the piece of wood you attached to the bottom? Thank you for sharing.

    • Reply
      Anita Holland
      August 12, 2020 at 12:38 pm

      Than k you so much Linda for sharing your great story with me. I did have a giggle at your final destination. As for the bottom I did not cover it separately. The last piece was started at the top and then to the bottom then across and back up the other side. I did it this way so you would not see that I had added wood to the bottom.

  • Reply
    Laura Kelly Walters
    August 11, 2020 at 3:31 pm

    This is so cute! Thank you for participating in our linky party!

    • Reply
      Anita Holland
      August 12, 2020 at 12:41 pm

      Thank you so much, Laura, and thanks for hosting.

  • Reply
    JO
    August 11, 2020 at 8:26 pm

    Another awesome project – THANK YOU!
    I have a lovely old wrapping paper map that I have hoarded for years PLUS an ancient table I could use as a base. Now to find the suitcase!!
    Unicorn Spit… I would love to get hold of some, but havn’t seen it in South Africa yet. Can you buy it in Australia, or do you need to go through Amazon?? Thanks in advance for any advice you can offer in this regard. XX

    • Reply
      Anita Holland
      August 12, 2020 at 12:47 pm

      Thank you Jo, I have friends in South Africa that use Unicorn Spit. If you like I can find out where they buy it from. We can buy it here in a few places, Amazon is one.

  • Reply
    Beth Watson
    August 13, 2020 at 12:14 am

    We are so excited that you participated! Thank you for sharing your creativity!

    • Reply
      Anita Holland
      August 13, 2020 at 11:51 am

      Thanks for the invite, I will be back next week lol

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    Meg Daves
    August 14, 2020 at 1:57 am

    Thank you so much for sharing! Your project is absolutely darling!

    • Reply
      Anita Holland
      August 14, 2020 at 6:34 am

      Thank you so much, that is very kind of you to say.

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    Ann Butler
    August 14, 2020 at 1:57 am

    What a great addition to our linky party! We are so happy to have you!

    • Reply
      Anita Holland
      August 14, 2020 at 6:35 am

      Thank you Ann, that is so kind of you to say.

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      August 21, 2020 at 8:50 am

      Thank you so much for the feature. see you next week.

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    Leanna
    August 31, 2020 at 9:49 am

    Such a fantastic upcycle, you thought of all the right little details. This would be a perfect table to store all your hair care stuff in, especially for a teenager.

    • Reply
      Anita Holland
      September 1, 2020 at 12:33 am

      Thank you so much, that is very kind of you to say. I agree that a teenagers would love this more because it is different.

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