My project is sort of a no-brainer. The other day, my son and I went to pick up a desk for him to work on, which just happened to be two houses down. (how weird is that?) Also, while there talking to the awesome lady who was selling the desk, she offered me this handmade trunk. I’m feeling and industrial vibe makeover. eep!
It’s a handmade storage trunk that she said was in her house when she bought it. Originally, it is missing the hardware, and she gave it a white coat of paint. And, if you know me, I don’t pass up FREE very often. tsk.
Wouldn’t you accept this generous offer? It was in great shape but just needed some TLC.
DIY TIME
First, after a good cleaning, I grabbed my sander and gave the paint some distressing. Then, it’s time to dig into my stash to see how I could add some industrial character to this freebie. Low and behold, I found these…
…it pays to stash, I tell ya. I don’t remember where those corners came from, but they would look cool on my trunk. In addition, I salvaged those hinges off of a curbside table that was busted. Perfect!
In the past, I build custom trunks that are a Pottery Barn knock-off (you can read more in this post).
So, for this project, I decided to do a similar treatment. Next, I popped those metal corners I showed you on the top and then added some scrap pieces of wood to the bottom for feet.
Likewise, I want to add a bit of character to the trunk, so just like in my tutorial for a Faux Shipping Crate Table on the front with the Chalky Finish Paint in Relic.
THE REVEAL
Last, with a coat of black spray paint to those salvaged hinges, and some new hardware, my trunk is now industrial stylin’, don’t you think?
It’s perfect as a coffee table, end of bed storage, end table, or entry bench. I love it! In addition, see how those corners worked perfectly? 
Just look at how this funkified piece is ready to stow blankets, books, treasures with all the space it has to offer.
Also, the pulls and key escutcheon are from Hickory Hardware and really make the trunk a fun addition to the room.
Last, my favorite part is the stencil. The number makes it fun. Love it too?
Above all, I hope you enjoyed this industrial style makeover.
In addition, inspire others to see potential in cast-off pieces – Pin and share! ♥
UP NEXT
Next up, my daughter and I are going to show you how we transformed this dated Mid-Century table into a modern gem. Head HERE.
Before you go, be sure to sign up for my newsletter. Until next time!
Also, more of my industrial projects:
What a great freebie! Your simple touches take it to a whole new level. Love it all!
Thank you, Christy! Can’t go wrong with a freebie. 😀
This is gorgeous!! It went from boring to stunning. I love all those industrial touches. They add much needed details.
Thanks, Mary! It was a boring white box in my mind, and it just worked out that my stash came to my rescue again. 😉 Now my husband can say it’s worth stashing, right?
That came out great. And your right adding the number stencil, corners and hardware take it right into industrial chic!
Woot! That’s what I was going for, Karen. Thank you!
Wow, that’s awesome Larissa! Love what you did with it!
Thank you, Nancy!
This is so cool – and how amazing that it was free and already painted white! Awesome job, friend!
Can’t beat it, right? Thank you, Jen. 🙂
I tell ya, what I’d do to rummage through your junk stash, Larissa! You must show your neighbor her old trunk now – fabulous!
hahaha…you need to tell that to my husband. 😉 Thanks for the love, lady!
I love how your freebie turned out.
Thanks! It was fun to tweak it and give it new life. 🙂