What To Do With An Old Suitcase
Introduction
When it comes to travel, there’s nothing quite like the anticipation of packing your bags and jetting off to a new destination. But what happens when your trusty suitcase starts showing signs of wear and tear? Instead of throwing it away, why not give it a new lease on life? With a little creativity and some DIY magic, you can repurpose your old suitcase into something useful and stylish.
Repurposing your old suitcase not only helps reduce waste but also adds a unique and personalized touch to your home decor. Whether you’re looking for a functional pet bed, a stylish side table, or a charming vintage shelf, your old suitcase has the potential to become a standout piece in your home.
In this article, we’ll explore several creative ways to repurpose your old suitcase. From transforming it into a portable bar cart for entertaining guests to converting it into a travel-inspired wall shelf, the possibilities are endless. Let’s dive into these exciting DIY projects and breathe new life into your old suitcase!
Repurpose as a Pet Bed
If you have a furry friend at home, why not turn your old suitcase into a cozy and stylish pet bed? This DIY project is a perfect way to provide your pet with a comfortable resting spot while adding a touch of charm to your home.
To get started, remove the inner lining of your suitcase if it’s still intact. This will make it easier to clean and ensure a comfortable surface for your pet. Next, measure and cut a piece of foam or an old pillow to fit inside the suitcase. This will serve as the cushioning for your pet’s bed.
Now it’s time to add some soft and cozy fabric! Choose a fabric that matches your home decor or reflects your pet’s personality. Cut the fabric into a size slightly larger than the suitcase, leaving enough excess to fold over the edges. Secure the fabric to the interior of the suitcase using a staple gun, making sure it’s taut and wrinkle-free.
Once the fabric is secure, insert the foam or pillow into the suitcase. You can add an additional layer of comfort by covering the cushion with a soft blanket or pet bed cover.
Finally, personalize your pet’s bed by adding their name or a decorative touch to the exterior of the suitcase. You can use adhesive letters or stencils and paint to create a design that suits your pet’s style.
Your repurposed suitcase pet bed is now ready for your furry friend to enjoy! Place it in a cozy corner of your home, and watch as your pet snuggles up in their new favorite spot.
Create a Stylish Side Table
If you’re in need of a unique and functional side table, repurposing your old suitcase is a great solution. With a few simple steps, you can transform your suitcase into a stylish and charming piece of furniture.
Start by cleaning and removing any inner linings or compartments from the suitcase. This will provide a clean canvas for your DIY project. If the suitcase has a hard exterior, you may want to sand it down lightly to create a smooth surface.
Next, determine the height of your side table by measuring the suitcase and adding or removing legs accordingly. You can find pre-made table legs at your local hardware store or repurpose old furniture legs for a unique look.
Attach the legs to the bottom of the suitcase using brackets or screws, ensuring they are securely fastened. If the legs are wooden, you can also paint or stain them to match your desired aesthetic.
Once the legs are attached, you can add a glass or wooden tabletop to provide a flat surface for your side table. Custom-cut a piece of glass or wood to fit the dimensions of the suitcase and secure it in place using adhesive or screws.
Now comes the fun part – decorating your stylish side table! You can leave the interior of the suitcase as is for a vintage look or add a decorative lining to match your home decor. Consider using fabric, wallpaper, or even a map print to line the interior of the suitcase.
For an added touch of personalization, accessorize your side table with decorative items such as books, a small potted plant, or a vintage lamp. This will complete the look and make your repurposed suitcase side table a true conversation piece.
Whether placed next to your sofa, bed, or in a cozy reading nook, your repurposed suitcase side table will not only serve as a functional surface but also as a unique and stylish addition to your home decor.
Turn it into a Vintage Shelf
If you have a love for vintage decor, repurposing your old suitcase into a vintage shelf is the perfect project for you. This creative DIY project will not only add a unique touch to your space but also provide a functional storage solution.
To start, clean your suitcase thoroughly and remove any inner linings or compartments. This will create an empty space for your shelves.
Next, consider how many shelves you want to create inside the suitcase. Measure and cut pieces of wood or sturdy boards to fit the width of the suitcase as shelves. You can choose to have multiple shelves or a single large shelf depending on your needs.
Attach the boards to the interior of the suitcase using screws, brackets, or nails. Ensure that they are secure and can hold the weight of the items you plan to display on them.
Now comes the fun part – decorating your vintage shelf! Consider adding a decorative touch to the interior of the suitcase. You can use vintage-inspired wallpaper, fabric, or patterned contact paper to line the shelves and give them a nostalgic feel.
Once the shelves are in place, you can start arranging your items and decorative pieces. Display vintage books, trinkets, or antique collectibles to showcase your unique style and add a touch of personality to the shelf.
For an extra vintage touch, you can accessorize the exterior of the suitcase with vintage luggage tags, stickers, or even travel-related memorabilia. This will further enhance the nostalgic aesthetic and make your repurposed suitcase shelf a true conversation starter.
Hang your vintage shelf on the wall or place it on a sturdy surface, and watch as it becomes a focal point in your home. The combination of functionality and vintage charm will make this repurposed suitcase shelf a standout piece in any room.
Transform into a Unique Planter
If you’re looking to add some greenery to your space, repurposing your old suitcase into a unique planter is a creative and stylish option. This DIY project allows you to showcase your favorite plants while giving your old suitcase a new life.
Start by preparing your suitcase for its transformation. Remove any inner linings or compartments and ensure that the interior is clean and dry.
Next, create drainage holes in the bottom of the suitcase. This will allow excess water to escape and prevent your plants from becoming waterlogged. Use a drill or a sharp tool to create small holes evenly spaced across the bottom of the suitcase.
Line the bottom of the suitcase with a waterproof material like plastic or a plastic liner to protect the suitcase from moisture. This will help prevent any potential damage to the suitcase and ensure a longer lifespan for your planter.
Fill the bottom of the suitcase with a layer of gravel or small stones. This will provide additional drainage for your plants and prevent soil from becoming compacted at the bottom.
Next, add a layer of potting soil on top of the gravel. Choose a high-quality potting mix that suits the needs of your plants.
Now it’s time to select and plant your favorite greenery. Choose a variety of plants that thrive in similar conditions and have similar water and light requirements. Arrange them creatively within the suitcase, utilizing the different compartments or sections if available.
Water your plants gently, making sure not to overwater them. Monitor their growth and adjust watering and care accordingly.
To add a decorative touch to your unique planter, consider placing small decorative items such as rocks, figurines, or fairy lights amongst the plants. This will add a whimsical and personalized touch to your repurposed suitcase planter.
Finally, find a suitable place for your planter – whether it’s on a patio, balcony, or indoors. Your repurposed suitcase planter will not only bring life and beauty to your space but also serve as a conversation piece and a unique focal point.
Use as a Decorative Storage Solution
Looking for a creative and stylish way to declutter your space? Repurposing your old suitcase as a decorative storage solution is the perfect answer. This DIY project allows you to keep your belongings organized while adding a vintage and eclectic touch to your home decor.
Start by cleaning and preparing your suitcase. Remove any inner linings or compartments, and ensure that the interior is clean and dry.
Next, consider how you want to use your repurposed suitcase for storage. Whether it’s for blankets and pillows, books, or even accessories, plan the layout and organization of your items in the suitcase.
Depending on the items you will be storing and their size, you can utilize the existing compartments of the suitcase or create additional storage solutions. Consider adding dividers, small baskets, or fabric pouches to keep items separate and organized.
For an extra touch of elegance and protection for your belongings, you can line the interior of the suitcase with fabric or decorative paper. This will not only add a pop of color or pattern but also prevent delicate items from getting scratched.
If you want to take it a step further, you can even add labels or tags to the exterior of the suitcase to indicate what’s inside. This will make it easier to locate specific items and add an element of vintage charm to your storage solution.
Once your repurposed suitcase storage solution is complete, find a suitable spot in your home to showcase it. Whether it’s in the living room, bedroom, or entryway, your repurposed suitcase will make a statement while providing a practical solution for organization in style.
Not only does repurposing your old suitcase as a decorative storage solution help reduce waste, but it also adds a unique and personal touch to your space. Get creative with your storage arrangements, mix and match colors and patterns, and transform your old suitcase into a functional and eye-catching storage solution that reflects your style and personality.
Convert to a Portable Bar Cart
If you love entertaining guests and want to add a touch of sophistication to your parties, repurposing your old suitcase into a portable bar cart is the perfect project for you. This DIY transformation will not only provide a stylish and functional bar area but also become a conversation piece at your next gathering.
Start by cleaning and preparing your suitcase for its new role as a bar cart. Remove any inner linings or compartments and ensure that the interior is clean and dry.
Next, consider how you want to arrange your bar accessories within the suitcase. Measure the width and length of the interior space to determine how many shelves or compartments you can create.
Using sturdy boards or plywood, create shelves that fit the width of the suitcase. Attach them securely to the interior using brackets or screws. You can also create dividers or compartments to hold bottles, glasses, and other bar essentials.
To add a touch of elegance and protect the interior of the suitcase, consider lining the shelves and compartments with felt or other decorative materials. This will prevent the bottles and glasses from scratching the surface and add a pop of color or texture.
Now it’s time to stock your portable bar cart! Arrange your bottles, glassware, cocktail shakers, and other bar accessories in an organized and stylish manner. Consider using small trays or containers to group items together and keep them snuggly in place during transportation.
If your suitcase has an exterior pocket, you can use it to store napkins, drink stirrers, or even a small cocktail recipe book. This will ensure that all the necessary elements for crafting the perfect drink are within reach.
To complete the transformation, consider adding wheels to the bottom of your repurposed suitcase. This will make it easy to move the bar cart around your home or outdoor spaces while adding a practical touch.
When it’s time to entertain, simply roll out your portable bar cart and let the festivities begin! Your repurposed suitcase bar cart will not only serve as a functional and stylish piece but also become the highlight of your parties, showcasing your creativity and flair for hosting.
Repurpose as a Travel-inspired Wall Shelf
If you’re a travel enthusiast or have a love for all things wanderlust, repurposing your old suitcase into a travel-inspired wall shelf is a fantastic way to showcase your passion for exploration. This DIY project will not only add a unique decorative element to your space but also serve as a functional storage solution.
Begin by thoroughly cleaning your old suitcase and removing any inner linings or compartments. This will provide a clean canvas for your travel-inspired wall shelf.
Next, consider how you want to display your suitcase on the wall. You can choose to hang it vertically or horizontally, depending on the size and shape of the suitcase.
If your suitcase has a hard exterior, you can mount it directly onto the wall using screws or brackets. Ensure that it is securely fastened to prevent any accidents or damage.
Now it’s time to transform the interior of the suitcase into a functional wall shelf. Measure and cut pieces of wood or sturdy boards to fit inside the suitcase as shelves. You can create multiple shelves or a single large shelf, depending on the dimensions and your storage needs.
Attach the shelves to the interior of the suitcase using brackets or screws, making sure they are level and solidly in place. You can leave them bare or paint them in colors that complement your home decor.
Now comes the fun part – adding the travel-inspired elements! Decorate the exterior of the suitcase with vintage maps, postcards, or travel stickers to capture the spirit of adventure. You can also attach hooks or small clips to hang photos, polaroids, or mementos from your travels.
As you arrange the items on the shelves, consider displaying travel books, souvenirs, and other travel-related items that hold sentimental value to you. Add small figurines, miniature globes, or trinkets to enhance the travel theme.
Hang or mount your repurposed suitcase wall shelf in a prominent spot in your home, such as the living room, hallway, or even a home office. This unique and eye-catching piece will not only serve as a decorative display but also bring your love for travel to life.
Whether you have an extensive collection of travel memorabilia or simply wish to evoke the spirit of adventure, repurposing your old suitcase into a travel-inspired wall shelf allows you to showcase your wanderlust in a creative and meaningful way.
Turn it into a DIY Vanity Case
If you’re in need of a stylish and functional vanity case to keep your beauty essentials organized, repurposing your old suitcase is a wonderful solution. This DIY project allows you to create a personalized and unique vanity case that reflects your style and helps you stay organized.
Begin by cleaning your old suitcase and removing any inner linings or compartments. This will provide a clean slate for your vanity case transformation.
Next, decide on the layout and organization of your vanity case. Determine how many compartments or drawers you want to create and measure the dimensions accordingly.
You can use dividers, small boxes, or trays to create separate storage sections for makeup, brushes, skincare products, and other beauty essentials. Consider utilizing the existing compartments of the suitcase or repurposing small containers to fit your needs.
Attach the dividers or containers securely to the interior of the suitcase using adhesive, screws, or brackets. Ensure that they fit snugly and provide stability for your items.
Now it’s time to personalize your DIY vanity case. Consider covering the interior of the suitcase with fabric or decorative paper that matches your style and aesthetic. This will add a pop of color or pattern and make your vanity case more visually appealing.
Add a mirror to the interior or exterior of the suitcase to create a functional space for applying makeup. You can either attach a small, compact mirror or incorporate a larger mirror that can be folded or propped up.
To complete the transformation, consider adding small hooks or holders for jewelry, hair accessories, or other small items. These additions will optimize organization and make it easier to find what you need.
Your DIY vanity case is now ready to be used! Place it on a dressing table or countertop, and arrange your beauty essentials in an organized and accessible manner. You’ll have a unique and personalized vanity case that not only keeps your products tidy but also adds a touch of style to your daily skincare and makeup routines.
Repurposing your old suitcase into a DIY vanity case not only helps reduce waste but also allows you to create a functional and customized space for your beauty essentials. Embrace your creativity and transform your old suitcase into a one-of-a-kind vanity case that is both practical and aesthetically pleasing.
Transform into a Playful Dollhouse
If you have little ones who love imaginative play, repurposing your old suitcase into a playful dollhouse is a wonderful DIY project that will spark their creativity and provide hours of entertainment. This repurposing idea allows you to give your old suitcase a new life as a dollhouse that can be customized to your child’s liking.
Start by thoroughly cleaning your old suitcase and removing any inner linings or compartments. This will provide a clean and blank canvas for your dollhouse transformation.
Next, plan the layout and design of your dollhouse. Decide how many rooms you want to create and determine the size and dimensions for each room within the suitcase.
Using sturdy cardboard or foam boards, cut pieces to fit the dimensions of each room. These will serve as the walls of your dollhouse. Attach the walls securely to the interior of the suitcase using strong adhesive or small nails.
Now it’s time to decorate the rooms of the dollhouse. Use colored paper, fabric, or paint to add walls, flooring, and wallpaper to each room. Let your child’s imagination run wild and let them choose the colors and patterns they prefer.
Create furniture and accessories for the dollhouse using simple materials such as cardboard, popsicle sticks, or small wooden blocks. You can craft beds, chairs, tables, and other pieces to furnish the rooms. Encourage your child to join in the fun and help create the miniature furniture.
To enhance the dollhouse experience, add small details such as curtains, rugs, and artwork on the walls. This will add a realistic and playful touch to the dollhouse.
Encourage your child to personalize the dollhouse by adding their favorite dolls, stuffed animals, and miniature toys. This will make the dollhouse feel like a special and unique space for their imaginative play.
Once the dollhouse is complete, your child can let their imagination soar as they play and create stories in their very own repurposed suitcase dollhouse. It’s a fun and eco-friendly way to repurpose your old suitcase and provide endless entertainment for your child.
Repurposing your old suitcase into a playful dollhouse not only promotes sustainability but also encourages creativity and imaginative play. Give your child a special and unique dollhouse that they can cherish and enjoy for years to come.
Conclusion
Repurposing your old suitcase into various functional and creative items is a fantastic way to give it a new lease on life while adding a touch of uniqueness to your home. Whether you transform it into a pet bed, a stylish side table, a vintage shelf, a unique planter, a decorative storage solution, a portable bar cart, a travel-inspired wall shelf, a DIY vanity case, or a playful dollhouse, the possibilities are endless.
By repurposing your old suitcase, you not only reduce waste but also tap into your creativity and resourcefulness. You can personalize the repurposed suitcase to match your style, decor, or interests, allowing you to create a truly unique and meaningful item.
The DIY projects mentioned in this article offer not only functional solutions but also opportunities for self-expression and customization. Let your imagination guide you as you repurpose your old suitcase and turn it into something that brings joy and practicality to your life.
So, instead of throwing away your old suitcase, consider giving it a new life through these repurposing ideas. Whether it becomes a cozy pet bed, a fashionable piece of furniture, a decorative planter, or an imaginative dollhouse, your repurposed suitcase will become a conversation starter and an expression of your creativity.
Remember, the key is to have fun and let your imagination soar as you embark on these DIY projects. Get ready to impress your friends and family with your unique and resourceful approach to repurposing your old suitcase into something practical, beautiful, and full of character.
