Metal Trunk: Removing Glued-on Wood Letters

Jude
by Jude
My granddaughter was given the pink trunk pictured. The prior owner left her name glued to the front of the trunk. Has anyone figured out how to remove glued on wood from a metal trunk, without causing damage? Thanks.
  9 answers
  • Johnavallance82 Johnavallance82 on Aug 10, 2017

    There is a product called Glue Gone , or had you thought if all else fails - Stick Squares on top of Letters and Start again. If name is shorter or longer just use ONE long piece.

  • Something I learned from a wood floor installer but have not actually tried myself: Dampen a towel or washcloth with hot water, place over the wood letters and then use your steam iron or a blow dryer on hot over the towel to cause steam that should loosen the glue.

  • Tina Horn Tina Horn on Aug 10, 2017

    I am not sure there is a way to remove the letters without damaging the surface of the trunk. You may just turn it into a fun project to do with your granddaughter. After removing the name and other items attached to the surface, put a new finish on it. She can pick out a fabric she likes and decoupage it to the surface (it can be changed as her tastes and decor change).

  • Susan K Mullins Susan K Mullins on Aug 10, 2017

    Use Goo Gone and a soft rag. I am never out of this product!

    comment photo
  • Janet Pizaro Janet Pizaro on Aug 10, 2017

    Try applying WD 40 on the letters,let it soak through and they should peel right off

  • Pat Pat on Aug 10, 2017

    Not sure if rubbing alcohol would work to loosen the glue


  • William William on Aug 10, 2017

    Great tips! Goo Gone or WD40 may work. Mineral spirits may also work.There may also be some damage. After soaking with any of the products, use a putty knife and scrape gently under the letters to cut through the glue.

  • Lorraine Lorraine on Aug 10, 2017

    UHU glue remover? Available at craft stores.

  • Tami Dean Tami Dean on Aug 11, 2017

    Heat with a blow dryer.