Step 1 set the antique trunk on a drop cloth or old blanket in a well ventilated area.
Antique trunk with metal sheeting cleaning.
Removing the old material covering.
Allow to dry for 48 hours.
But here s a fun fact.
Several types of sheet metal for steamer trunk fabrication and repair shop trunks trunk parts metal for trunks sheet metals and.
After years of use the antique metal may develop a characteristic patina.
I suggest de glossing the surface of the aluminum with 320 grit sandpaper and then wiping the sheet metal clean with a lint free cloth and mineral spirits.
Cleaning up an old trunk.
So if you re facing rust on the metal or brass sections of an antique trunk roll up your sleeves and take your time to restore the piece to its original state of splendor.
Not trying to do restoration just stop the rust.
Gently clean paper lined trunk interiors by spraying the vinegar solution on your cleaning cloth and carefully wiping down the interior.
Sheet aluminum sold by the running foot 10.
First is trying to clean up just with soap and water then wire brushing.
Restoring a vintage steamer trunk.
The metal on an antique trunk is designed to protect the trunks corners.
Especially on the metal areas since the product does not absorb into the metal.
Apply and buff well where it s very dirty to remove the oxidation from metal and remove dirt and debris.
Clean metal antique trunks with a mixture of one part white vinegar and one part water in a spray bottle.
The hardest part of the entire project is in the preparation of the piece.
A metal patina is a change in color that takes place with exposure to oils.
If there is such a thing in the trunk refinishing business most trunks have some metal exposed somewhere thin black metal around corners heavy steel corners latches hasps and shoulders brass locks and nails and pressed or flat tin which was used to cover the pine boards beneath and add a decorative touch.
Decorative pressed metal for covering antique trunks 15.
Antique steamer trunk large clean vintage victorian flat top chest w key c1895.
Black corner metal for steamer trunk repair or new construction 15 your choice.
Once the wise owl verbena is applied to the entire steamer trunk make sure to go back and buff any excess salve with an old t shirt.
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Other non aluminum primers may not adhere well to the aluminum.
Step 4 prop the trunk open and allow it to air dry completely.