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An old vintage suitcase might not seem like much at first, but it can make a surprisingly useful addition to your bedroom. Repurposing something like this is a simple way to upgrade your space without buying new furniture, especially if you’re working with a budget or just want something a little different.

I came across a red vintage suitcase at a local thrift store for $6 while I was searching for a nightstand for our guest room. It had a few scuffs and signs of wear, but it was sturdy and the size was just right.

Using a suitcase as a nightstand adds a bit of interest without feeling overdone. It also doubles as storage, which is always a plus in a bedroom. You can keep books, extra blankets, or small essentials tucked inside while still having a flat surface on top for a lamp or a cup of tea.

If you have an old suitcase sitting around, this is an easy project to try. I’ll walk you through how I turned mine into a simple, functional nightstand step by step.

Before Picture of Vintage Suitcase

Here’s a look at the vintage suitcase before upcycling. There’s nothing like an old suitcase to signify your love of travel and beauty. The stunning red color would fit seamlessly into the guest room. And the best is that the vintage suitcase from Goodwill Industries was in pretty good shape. It just needed some cleaning up.

The aged leather provided tons of character and charm. The gold hardware on the suitcase made the overall color pop.

close up of vintage suitcase to side table

The good news about this makeover is that this DIY project only requires three (3) simple steps.

close of vintage suitcase for side table

Step-by-Step Instructions – Suitcase Nightstand

Supplies needed

Vintage Suitcase
(4) Hairpin Legs
Screws
Drill or Screwdriver

Step 1 – Clean the suitcase

Although some prep work is required, the first thing you should do is thoroughly clean the suitcase. There is a good chance your suitcase has seen better days and has been tossed and moved around in various places.

The truth is, you don’t know where this suitcase has been. So, the first step is to clean it thoroughly with a cloth and hot, soapy water.

Step 2 – Affix the Legs

Turn the suitcase over so that the bottom of the suitcase faces you. Position your first hairpin leg on the corner of the bottom of the suitcase. With your drill gun or screw, use the nails to screw the legs into the suitcase. Continue to do this for each leg until all four legs are attached to the suitcase.

one leg attached vintage suitcase side table

Pro tip: Check the nail’s size to ensure it won’t poke through the suitcase. If it does, you may need to get more size-appropriate nails that don’t push out through the suitcase. If you don’t plan to use the inside of the suitcase, the size will not matter.

For this DIY project, I got size-appropriate nails from my craft storage area since the nails that came with the hairpin legs were too long. You must measure to see which size works best for you.

bottom of vintage suitcase with affixed legs

Step 3 – Stand up the suitcase.

Now it’s time to take a closer look and admire your new upcycled end table made from an old vintage suitcase. Turn your suitcase over to stand up. Take the time to admire your upcycled creation.

This little end table makes a great addition to a small apartment or tiny bedroom. It can be a little side table to hold your eyeglasses and remote control. You can even put an alarm clock or table lamp on top of the nightstand. I’m sure this suitcase has some serious history, so I am glad that I was able to give it new life.

Where can you find a vintage suitcase?

If you don’t have an old vintage suitcase lying around or don’t have access to grandma’s family heirloom, consider going to a thrift store to find one. Thrift stores such as Goodwill Industries, The Salvation Army, and Value Village are great places to find a cheap suitcase or trunk. You can also visit the local antique shop, flea market, or garage sales.

If all else fails, keep an eye out in your neighborhood for donated and unwanted treasures on the side of the road. With all these options, you may be able to find exactly what you are looking for. But be warned that the suitcase may not be in the best condition and may require additional upcycling, such as a new paint job or a dark stain.