Some photos of my trunk.
Cleaning an old wooden trunk.
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I have an old wooden trunk I found in the hay loft. It is very plain and rather small. No fancy hardware or straps. It has a heavy coat of waxy build up and I wondered what is the best way to clean it so I can repurpose it. I think it will are a really cute piece of furniture. Thanks for your help!
Pat
Many old trunks have value. I'd suggest having it appraised first, then inquire about the proper cleaning and preservation of the wood. Best of luck.
could it be old enough for bees wax coating? If so just soapy water and rinse well should clean it.
It may be a tool chest/box or gun box or even a box for under the driver's seat on a wagon! Lucky you!
Agree with those who have mentioned trunk values. Do the wrong thing, and you have ruined it. Appraise first, refinish later. If it has a bad smell, you will never get rid of that. Good luck - love trunks. Have three: 1 hump back and two flat top. Make great storage for blankets and quilts. Use two flat tops as end tables in my LR.
We have what we know to be a seaman's chest. It was a wreak, so my husband refinished it and made a new top. Can you post a picture of it? It could be something home made but it sounds like it had a lot of love. Does it have any paper inside, or any detail on the inside? Any dove tails? Any interesting handles? It could be a chest made for a doll, but the size could probably tell what it was for. Also the type of wood would be important.
Nice find!
Thanks Pat, Yep pictures really do help. It sounds like yours might be a hand made piece.