Have you ever looked at an old trunk tucked away in the attic or spotted a forgotten one at a flea market and thought, “What a shame to waste all that space?“ You’re not alone. That sturdy, character-filled box isn’t just for storing grandma’s quilts; it’s a storage bench waiting to happen. Transforming an old trunk into a functional and charming piece of furniture is one of the most satisfying DIY projects a homeowner can tackle. It’s easier than you might think, and the result is a unique conversation starter that adds both seating and secret storage to any room in your house.
The journey begins with finding the right trunk. Don’t worry about a little dirt, a few dents, or flaky paint—that’s all part of the charm and can be fixed. The most important thing is that the structure is sound. Give it a good shake; the lid should be secure, the hinges intact, and the bottom solid. If it passes the wiggle test, you’re ready to roll. First, give your trunk a thorough cleaning inside and out with a gentle cleaner. For a trunk with peeling varnish or paint, a light sanding will smooth the surface and help any new finish stick better. This is your chance to decide on the final look. Do you want to preserve its antique patina with a clear coat of wax or polyurethane? Or perhaps you’d like to paint it a bright, modern color to match your decor. Both are fantastic choices.Now, for the magic trick that turns a box into a bench: adding legs and a cushion. This is where your trunk truly becomes furniture. For the legs, you have wonderful options. Simple furniture legs, available at any hardware or home improvement store, are a breeze to install. Just turn the trunk upside down, mark where you want each leg—one in each corner is standard—and screw them in according to the package instructions. For a more industrial or rustic look, consider using hairpin legs, which bolt on easily. If your trunk is very heavy or you want a more built-in feel, constructing a simple platform base from 2x4 lumber is a great, sturdy alternative.No bench is complete without a comfortable seat. The easiest approach is to have a custom cushion made, but making your own is a rewarding next step. Measure the top of your trunk lid carefully. You can cut a piece of plywood or high-density foam to that size. Wrap your foam in batting to soften the edges, then cover it with your chosen fabric. A durable indoor-outdoor fabric is a smart choice for longevity. To attach the cushion, you can use heavy-duty Velcro strips on the back of the cushion and the top of the trunk lid, or simply rely on a non-slip pad beneath it. The beauty of a separate cushion is that you can change the fabric seasonally or when you redecorate.Finally, step back and admire your handiwork. You’ve just created a one-of-a-kind piece that tells a story. This new-old bench can sit at the foot of your bed, holding extra blankets. It can welcome guests in your entryway, offering a place to put on shoes while stashing scarves and gloves inside. It can even provide extra seating and toy storage in a playroom. You didn’t just build a piece of furniture; you gave a forgotten treasure a new life and a new purpose. So go ahead, open the lid, tuck your things inside, and take a well-deserved seat on your very own creation.
October 9, 2025
