You know I love a good makeover, especially when it doesn’t require a bunch of supplies or a full day of work. This vintage wicker trunk makeover is a perfect example of how a single, simple step with one product can completely transform a piece. Whether you’ve thrifted a wicker trunk, inherited one, or found one at a yard sale, this project proves that you don’t need a lot to make it look amazing again.
The Thrifted Trunk
I found this vintage wicker trunk at my local Goodwill. As I turned the corner, I spotted a lady looking it over, and I immediately hoped she’d pass on it so I could get a closer look. Thankfully, she walked away, and I made my move.
These days, thrift store prices can be outrageous, so I’ve learned not to get too excited until I check the tag. If the price is right, then I’ll start really looking it over. This one? It was a great price and in really good condition, which isn’t always the case with wicker. I was surprised at how sturdy and well-kept this big piece was. That doesn’t happen often with wicker finds, so I knew I had to grab it. These old trunks are not only functional (hello, hidden storage!) but they bring so much charm and texture to any space. They are being reproduced now, too, so it is always fun to find the original thing.
Wicker can be tricky to work with sometimes—it’s not always easy to clean, and painting it can be a hassle. But this makeover? It only took one product to completely refresh the entire piece.
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Vintage Wicker Trunk Makeover
The One Product That Did It All
For this vintage wicker trunk makeover, I used this furniture salve. This stuff is a game-changer. I applied it with this brush, which is ideal for getting into the spaces between the wicker. It went on easily, it isn’t a product that will drip into the cracks, and it gave the trunk a totally fresh look without covering up the texture, color, or look that makes the wicker on these vintage trunks so special.
You can see the difference in the photo below, where I applied the salve on the bottom right corner.
How I Did It
Here’s a quick breakdown of the steps I followed:
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Cleaned the trunk: I used a soft brush and vacuum to get all the dust and debris out of the nooks and crannies. A damp cloth helped with the surface grime.
- Applied the product: Using this brush, I applied the furniture salve in light, even coats. I let the salve sit overnight and then came back with a clean cloth this next morning and wiped off any excess still on it.
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Let it cure fully: Let the salve cure fully before setting anything in the trunk or on top of the trunk. This can take a week or two. Every piece will be different!
This vintage wicker trunk makeover was one of the easiest flips I’ve done. These are the projects that are the most fun to find to flip as well. They don’t take much work. All you have to do is clean them up, style them, and list them to sell! I teach YOU how to flip furniture for profit the right way inside my Furniture Flipping Academy. You can find all the information about the Academy HERE.
Why This Makeover Works
When you’re working with vintage pieces—especially ones made from natural materials like wicker—sometimes less is more. Using the right product (just one!) allows you to enhance what makes the piece special in the first place. You keep the texture, the shape, and the charm while giving it a refreshed look.
Plus, using only one product means less mess, less time, and less cost! Those are my favorite parts for sure!
Supplies I Used In This Vintage Wicker Trunk Makeover
Want to try your own vintage wicker trunk makeover? Here’s what I used:
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Salve Brush (I use the 1″ round)
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Furniture Salve (Choose the scent you would pick in a lotion, candle, or hand soap. They have unscented as well. Their scents are one of my favorite things about the salve. They are so good.)
If you’ve been holding onto a wicker piece because you didn’t know how to update it—or if you’ve passed up similar pieces while thrifting—this is your sign to go for it. A simple vintage wicker trunk makeover with one product is all you need to bring it back to life.
Want to see this project (and tons of other DIYs) in real-time? Head over to my YouTube channel HERE! I’m sharing new projects, tips, and ideas every week. If you hit SUBSCRIBE while you’re there (it’s totally free!) and tap the bell icon, you’ll get notified every time a new video goes live—so you never miss a thing!
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