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How to Upcycle Vintage Suitcase into a Nightstand

Upcycle a vintage suitcase into a charming nightstand with this easy DIY project! Add unique, functional style to your bedroom.

Materials

  • Vintage Suitcase
  • 4 pcs Hairpin Legs
  • Screws
  • Drill or Screwdriver

Instructions

  • Clean the suitcase.
    Although minimal prep work is needed, the first thing you need to 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.
  • 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.
    Pro tip: It’s a good idea to check the size of the nail to ensure it does not 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 on using the inside of the suitcase, then 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 what size will work best for you.
  • 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.

Notes

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.