Prepping the Vintage Train Case
I showed you last week this sneak peek, after I removed the rather icky lining. There was lots of fuzz and lint in it…thank goodness I worked in the garage. Cleaning out the old interior is a crucial step when repurposing an item for a couple’s custom project. antique suitcase or basket.
It looked like the lid of the train case wasn’t very thick. So I used a utility knife to cut a slot for the cards to go through. I cut it about the size of a large envelope. I was torn about cutting the vintage case, actually! But since it was so inexpensive and I’ve seen this exact vintage train case many times, I’m sure I can find another one.
Designing the Exterior
My plan was to cover the train case with fabric. I measured the case first…once all around the sides, the height, and the height/width of the top, and I cut two pieces slightly larger than my measurements. I wanted to use a fabric with a subtle print, and the original blue of the case was also inspiring. I ended up stenciling a doily pattern in light blue, grey and light grey onto some canvas I found at the thrift shop.
I first worked on the top of the case. I removed the handle using a flat screw driver and some pliers. Then I covered the top with Mod Podge and pressed down the fabric, covering the holes where the handle was, as well as the slit I cut.
I trimmed off the excess, using the suitcase’s trim as a guide. To hide the raw edge of the fabric, I hot glued some jute twine along the inside of the trim. Then I laid the lid top down on a self-healing mat and used a craft knife to trim the fabric over the slit. I cut a little “V” at the ends and then cut along the middle, so that I could fold the fabric inward to cover the raw edges of the slit.
Wrapping the Base
Now for the hard part…the side of the vintage train case! It’s one continuous piece, and I couldn’t get the hardware off. I was worried about damaging the lock so I stopped trying. So first I applied a thin layer of Mod Podge to the sides of the case (including the sides of the lid), and pressed down the fabric lightly, wrapping it all around (with the seam in the back).
Then when it’s time to cut around the hardware, use it as a guide for your craft knife. Note: keep the case closed but unlocked, as you will work around the hinges of the lock. And keeping the lid closed, I cut the fabric at the opening into two pieces. I lifted the fabric again and reapplied Mod Podge and really pressed down the fabric this time, making sure the fabric was correctly positioned around the hardware.
To cover the raw edges of the fabric, I hot glued some jute twine all around, including around the hardware. Then I reattached the handle with a custom touch.
Final Embellishments
Phew, all done with that part! Now for the final custom embellishment. I took a small embroidery hoop and used some extra stenciled fabric for the inside. I used a stamp and fabric paint to write “Cards” on it. And finally, a burlap and light blue yoyo flower with a vintage gold custom accents button completes the project.
If you’re looking for a unique wedding favor that will truly wow your guests, then our vintage train case wedding card box is perfect for you! Not only is it stylish and custom, but it also reflects the couple’s personality. chic, but it’s also an excellent way to keep your cards organized and safe. This project allows you to come up with a creative idea for my cardbox that tells a story.
FAQs
Q: What is a vintage train case wedding card box and why choose it for decor?
A: A vintage train case wedding card box is a repurposed travel case, often from the 1940s or mid-century eras, used to collect cards and letters from guests. It adds decorative, nostalgic charm to your reception, blending wood, brass, glass, or fabric accents to match a bride and groom’s theme. The travel heritage and unique silhouette make it a standout piece compared with a generic urn or card box.
Q: How can I come up with a creatie idea for my cardbox using a vintage traincase and a birdcage?
A: A popular creative pairing is to stack or display a small vintage traincase next to a birdcage, tying them together with ribbon, dried flowers, or a wooden sign. Use the train case as the main card box that’s secure for letters and envelopes while the birdcage offers visual height and a French or Italian decorative vibe. Add brass hardware or a glass label to highlight the couple’s names.
Q: Can I use a hat box or wooden trunk instead of a vintage train case for my wedding card box?
A: Yes. A hat box, wooden trunk, or urn can all be adapted as a custom card box that’s functional and stylish. Hat boxes work well for softer, romantic themes; wooden trunks provide a rustic or mid-century look; and a vintage train case offers travel and 1940s charm for the couple. Choose one you can secure and decorate to match your overall decor.
Q: How do I customize a vintage train case wedding card box without damaging it if I want to sell it later?
A: For resale-friendly customization, use removable adhesives, ribbon, and clip-on decorations instead of painting or permanent alterations. Attach a temporary wooden or brass sign, line the interior with fabric or felt that can be removed, and keep original hardware intact so the traincase maintains its vintage value when you sell.
Q: What are some creative ways to display photos with a vintage train case card box at the reception?
A: Incorporate a small photo collage on a wooden easel beside the train case, place a framed bride and groom photo on top, or attach a string of mini prints with miniature clothespins and brass clips. Glass frames, French-inspired picture mats, or Italian postcard-style photos can enhance a travel-themed setup while keeping the card box as the focal point.
