I would like to refurbish an old trunk
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Jmn13665305
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I want to know if I should take the metal corners off or just paint them. They appear to be nailed in and I don't want to damage the corners. Also, the straps are broken and I can't figure out how to remove them. They are encased in metal holders that won't come loose. Also, the lock appears to be frozen and I would like to know how to unfreeze them.
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Leave the corners on. Clean and paint. The metal strap holders are more likely riveted on the inside under any lining. Soak the lock with WD40.
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dont paint the hardware unless it's the look you want. You can always put painters tape over the metal pieces. Use an exacto knife to trim excess tape and then paint. As for the frozen lock, use wd40 sparingly, as it will repell any paint if it drips on the wood.
A good cleaning first will help. Let dry. Decide on the look you're going for and its use. Decoupage is an option. Painting is an option. WD40 for the lock but tape off the metal edges prior to painting. Check out William's link on trunks. Best of luck.
I've done a few trunk restorations.. metal footlocker trunks, and old stagecoach trunks.
You can paint the corners, by either spraying, or dry brushing them, or just use Rub n Buff , with a stippling brush.
Did you mean you don't have a key for the lock? Just stick a pair of scissors in and turn clockwise until you feel resistance, then turn some more til it pops open.
Anyhow, when restoring ANY THING, I find it's best to just leave it alone, and walk away til the creative answer pops into your head. It will. Can't force it.
I have two flat top and one hump back trunk and finished the inside of one with extra fabric and Sobo glue. Great for storing blankets and seldom used linens in my BR. The other two have now become end tables in my LR, and I love them. I too have one missing a strap; but, I wouldn't fiddle with the trim too much, especially the ends because they are an aesthetic part of the piece. If a trunk smells musty, get rid of it. An antique dealer once told me that you can NEVER get rid of bad smells in a trunk no matter how much your clean it or put it in the sun and air. Good luck with yours. I love mine.