One of my favorite things to do is decoupage vintage finds. Tables, suitcases, chairs, just about anything that is vintage can be decoupaged with Mod Podge. There are a few tricks though that make the process go a little smoother. I don't worry too much about bubbles or images being perfectly straight, the end result is what counts for me. Here is what I did: I started outside on the patio because I do get a little carried away in the process and have been known to spill my coffee, or knock over the Mod Podge. Plus this suitcase had a very odd smell. Here is how far I got before the temp reached 94 and I moved into the kitchen.
I tore out the satin lining for starters. Always give the surface that you are going to decoupage a light coat of Mod Podge and let it dry. This acts as a sealer and a primer. Make sure you use a regular paint brush - not a foam brush. At this point in the project I moved into the kitchen, and promised myself to pay attention to what I was doing.
Not a pretty picture but keeping it real. This is my secret weapon! I buy these white washcloths by the bundle at Target and use them for everything. Soak the washcloth in warm water and wring out so the cloth is damp. Brush a light coat of Mod Podge on the inside of the suitcase - a small section - brush a light coat of Mod Podge on the back of your paper. Smooth the paper on the surface with your brush, then lightly smooth the surface with the damp wash cloth. If you are feeling really adventurous, rub a little at the edges for a tattered look. I used vintage dictionary paper for the inside of the suitcase, and vintage photos for the inside of the lid.
This is the inside of the lid of the suitcase, and the first photo I decoupaged. Notice that I rubbed off some of the color for a really shabby look. Don't be chintzy with the Mod Podge. In this case more is better.
Almost finished. The inside of the suitcase before drybrushing a coat of antique white paint on the edges of the lid, and the outside of the case. Let the Mod Podge dry completely before painting, otherwise your paint might crackle - that could be a good thing though. It took me about 3 hours start to finish.
So here it is. Don't get too caught up in perfection. A few nicks and tears is inevitable when you are working with old paper. We are taking this with us to Kansas City for displaying some of our rubber stamps at the convention.
Last but not least here is a photo - and not a very good one - of the 25 mixed media art packs that we are giving away at the convention.
Just to let you know the store will be open on Saturday, and your web orders will ship promptly while we are in Kansas City.
Lots of new Halloween on the website and at the store.
-be true- Chris & Sharon
p.s. Chris has some cool techniques she will be showing you in KC!





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Posted by: short basket | July 26, 2012 at 04:23 AM
I really love the way you've repurposed this old suitcase...and even more, I appreciate how you have shared with us your process! Wish I were able to see it in person at Stampaway, and meet you two. Hope you have a great trip and find lots of new treasures on your way.
Posted by: Denise D | July 18, 2012 at 03:45 PM
love it, love it, L.O.V.E. it!!! Oh, did I say I LOVE it?? Yes, I'm a fan. lol!
Have fun at Stampaway....take lots of photos for those of us who can't be there to join the fun!
hugs and travel safe!
Dottee O.
Posted by: Dottee O. | July 18, 2012 at 12:10 PM
Fabulous! Thanks for the tips - I pinned this to my Pinterest board. Have fun ladies, on your road trip!
Deb
Posted by: Debbie Moon | July 18, 2012 at 10:43 AM
This is great! I "rescued" an old suitcase from my mother-in-law's yard sale when she was downsizing before moving into assisted living. I don't know how old it is, but I've been married to her son for 43 years and they had it when we got married. Anyway....thanks so much for this great tutorial. I wanted to do something like this, but wasn't sure of the best technique, etc. Now I know!
Gaye Miller
SE Missouri
Posted by: Gaye Miller | July 18, 2012 at 07:02 AM
Great suitcase! Thanks for the how to and please post photos of the display~would love to see how you used this special piece. Have a blast and good luck with your junking!
Posted by: Carolyn | July 18, 2012 at 06:20 AM
Wow. Have some suitcases waiting on this. Thank you for sharing your work and the great tips.
So looking forward to seeing you at Stampaway.
Posted by: Celestailize | July 17, 2012 at 07:38 PM
Thanks for sharing this project! I have a whole stack of suitcases I'm planning to decoupage and use for storing my art materials. I think your tips will make it so much easier. The suitcase looks amazing!
Posted by: Kimberly Jones | July 17, 2012 at 12:51 PM
This is wonderful - and whole new way to "see" suitcases when I'm at thrift stores! Thank you for sharing this!
See you at Stampaway - can't wait!!
Posted by: Nancy Crissinger | July 17, 2012 at 12:10 PM