How to Modernize an Old Trunk

Step 1

Wipe down the trunk (ours was leather) and all its hardware with an all-purpose cleaner.

Step 2

Paint the entire piece a light color, and let dry.

Step 3

Tape off 2 1/4-inch bands on all four of the trunk’s sides with painter’s tape, then fill them in with a darker color. Paint right over the hardware where needed. Peel off the tape while the paint is still slightly wet.