The dimensions of a steamer trunk can vary depending on the type of material used, the size of the trunk, and the additional features. Generally speaking, most steamer trunks measure between 20 – 50 inches in length, 15 – 30 inches in width, and 12 – 30 inches in height.
Depending on the size of the trunk, it may have multiple tiers or drawers that expand the overall dimensions. Antique steamer trunks are usually larger than modern trunks, with the average width measuring between 19- 22 inches, the average length measuring between 27 – 39 inches, and the average height measuring between 25 – 30 inches.
How much are antique steamer trunks worth?
The value of an antique steamer trunk varies greatly depending on a variety of factors. The age, condition and type of trunk are the major considerations when pricing an antique steamer trunk. Generally, the older and rarer the trunk is, the more valuable it will be.
Also of importance is the quality of material used in construction as well as any decorative elements. The condition of any hardware, on the trunk such as handles, locks or straps is also considered.
Originals trunks from the late 1800s and early 1900s are the most expensive. On average, complete antique trunks from this period may cost anywhere from $500 up to several thousand. Of course, condition and rarity are always the major factors in pricing.
There are many websites where prices for antique steamer trunks can be researched.
Why do steamer trunks have curved tops?
Steamer trunks have curved tops for two main reasons: aesthetics and practicality. Historically, travelers on steamships and trains used steamer trunks to store their belongings during their journey.
With curved tops, these trunks took up less storage space on the cramped vessels. Additionally, the crescent like shape provided a visual appeal to the trunks, often accentuating the beautiful pieces with brass fittings and sturdy leather straps.
This, combined with the added practicality of more efficient packing, made the curved top steamer trunk a popular choice for fashionable travelers of the time.
What are old steamer trunks made out of?
Old steamer trunks were traditionally made from a range of materials, including wood, metal, cardboard, and canvas. Wood was a popular choice for these trunks, as it was lightweight yet durable. Metal trunks, such as those traditionally made from tin or aluminum, were also popular.
Cardboard and canvas trunks were more commonly used for lighter weight items. Inside the trunks, the materials used often included heavy canvas, leather, and brass. All of these materials together allowed the trunk to be lightweight and water-resistant while also providing adequate protection for the stored items.
What were old trunks lined with?
Trunks from the 1700s up through the early 1900s were traditionally lined with a few different materials, with the most common being canvas, leather, and paper. Canvas was often used for strong trunks and also for steamer trunks.
Leather was also commonly used as a liner for traveling trunks and kept valuables from being damaged or scratched during the long journeys. Paper was typically used on common trunks, typically made from pieces of paper, newspaper, or fabric that were pasted together or tacked up around the edges.
It was often used to line the inside of trunks because it was cheap, readily available and kept the clothing clean. The paper also served as a protective layer, preventing items from shifting around and becoming damaged.
Do people still use steamer trunks?
Yes, people still use steamer trunks. Although these large luggage pieces are no longer as common as they used to be, they are still used in certain circumstances. Steamer trunks vary in size, design, and material, so they can be used for anything from a practical storage solution to a decorative accent piece.
Not only are Steamer trunks popular for their functionality but also for their unique appeal and charm. As a result, many people use steamer trunks for storage in small spaces, as coffee tables in their living rooms, or even as a wardrobe in their bedroom.
These trunks have a timeless appeal that can fit in with virtually any style of decor. For example, Steamer trunks can easily fit with a traditional or vintage aesthetic, while they can also be subtly incorporated into a modern decor.
Therefore, steamer trunks are still being used today.
How do I know if my old trunk is valuable?
Finding out whether your old trunk is valuable can be a tricky, but rewarding endeavor. The value of a trunk depends on a variety of factors, such as age, condition, style, materials, and rarity. Before attempting to assess the value of your trunk, research its origin and history, as that can provide important clues.
Check for labels, maker’s marks, and other signs of provenance. If you’re not sure of the age, you can use the materials, style, or a date marked on the lock as guidance.
Once you’ve determined how old your trunk is, you should assess its condition. If the wood is dry and showing signs of wear, then it likely won’t fetch much of a price. Any original features, such as straps, canoes, corners, or decorations, can raise its value.
If the original paint or finish is still visible, that’s even better. Inspect the interior for interesting details such as labels, trays, and other compartments.
Finally, investigate the style and type of trunk. Trunks that were made for military use, travel, steamer trunks, and trunks made to hold tools often have higher values than more generic trunks. When researching the style and type of trunk, explore the history and specific details about the maker.
For example, how many were made, who were they made for, or other contextual information around the craftsmanship and purpose of the trunk.
When trying to assess the value of your old trunk, knowledge and research are key. By taking steps to understand the origin, history, condition, style, and type of trunk, you’ll be able to gain an appreciation for its value as both an object and an heirloom.
How do you line a trunk with wallpaper?
To line a trunk with wallpaper, you will need the following supplies: wallpaper, adhesive, straightedge, utility knife, sandpaper, tack cloth, and foam brush.
Begin by measuring and cutting the wallpaper pieces to fit the inside of the trunk. Once the pieces are cut, draw light pencil lines where the wallpaper pieces will be placed and make sure the edges are exact and squared off.
Use sandpaper to lightly sand any rough areas inside the trunk to ensure a smooth result. Wipe the dust away with a tack cloth to prepare the area for the adhesive.
Next, spread a layer of adhesive over the wallpapered areas. Make sure that the adhesive spread is even and that it doesn’t ooze out between the joints. Use a foam brush to evenly spread the adhesive.
With the adhesive spread out, use a straightedge to place the wallpaper in its location and press firmly. Cut away any excess wallpaper with a utility knife.
To finish the trunk lining, make sure all edges are neat, vacuum out any loose adhesive, and wipe down the lining with a damp cloth. Now you have a lined trunk using wallpaper!
What is a Jenny Lind trunk?
A Jenny Lind trunk is a type of wooden chest, usually found in a missionary style and featuring a curved dome lid. Originating in the 19th century, Jenny Lind trunks have become iconic pieces of furniture in American and European homes.
These trunks derived their name from Jenny Lind, an opera singer from Sweden who gained worldwide fame due to her incredible vocal range and melodic appreciation for her music. These trunks are distinguished by their round domes, generally made of a single piece of wood, sometimes with a hinge and clasp closure.
They often feature iron straps, nails, or other decorative elements, and were often decorated with paper or varnish to add extra flair and character. Although Jenny Lind trunks varied in size, the most common type is a medium-sized model, measuring approximately 30 inches in width and 18-24 inches in depth.
Moreover, these trunks were typically made with wood finishes, such as oak, poplar, or cedar.
How do you refinish an old trunk?
Refinishing an old trunk doesn’t have to be difficult and can be a rewarding experience that can add a special, handmade touch to your home. The first step when refinishing an old trunk is to clean it thoroughly.
Remove any hardware, including hinges and latches, then use a brush or vacuum cleaner to remove any dirt. Next, finish any minor repairs that need to be done before you begin the refinishing process.
Once the repairs are made, sand the trunk using a medium-grit sander–you may need to switch to a finer grit for the final sanding. After you’ve sanded the trunk, wipe it down with a damp cloth to clean away any remaining dust, then apply your choice of stain or oil.
Finally, after the stain or oil is dry, seal the wood with wood sealer or a top coat varnish to protect the wood for years to come.
How do you put wallpaper on a dresser drawer?
Before beginning the process of wallpapering your dresser drawer, you should make sure to gather all of the necessary supplies, such as wallpaper, scissors, wallpaper paste, brush or roller, and a measuring tape.
First, measure your dresser drawer to determine how much wallpaper you will need to effectively cover the surface. Once you have determined the amount of wallpaper you need to purchase, cut the wallpaper to the appropriate size, making sure to leave extra paper in case of any errors.
Next, prepare the wallpaper paste per the instructions on the package. To apply the paste, use a brush or roller to spread it evenly over the entire surface of the dresser drawer. Make sure to spread the paste out evenly to prevent bubbles or wrinkles in the wallpaper.
When the dresser drawer is prepared for application, carefully apply the wallpaper piece to the surface and press firmly to remove any air bubbles. If necessary, use a rubber spatula to help smoothen any air bubbles.
Once the wallpaper is successfully applied to the dresser drawer, begin adding the paste to the edges and corners of the wallpaper for additional sticking power. Finally, trim any excess wallpaper and finish with a sealer for a flawless finish.
What can I line my dresser drawers with?
Depending on your personal preference.
One of the most common materials used is scented or unscented drawer liner paper. This paper can be cut to fit the shape and size of your dresser drawers and simply adhered to the interior of the drawers.
It is available in a variety of colors and patterns, and can even be changed out seasonally to give your dresser a refreshed look.
Another option is a shelf liner or non-adhesive drawer liner. This type of liner can be found in craft stores and home improvement stores and is often made of cork, velvet, or rubber. Like drawer liner paper, it can be trimmed to fit your dresser drawers and will give the interior apolished, finished look.
Fabric is another popular option for drawer liners. Lighter weight types of fabric, such as batiste or muslin, work best. Be sure to test a swatch of the fabric first to make sure it doesn’t snag or tear easily, and that it cleans up easily if necessary.
Satin, silk, and velvet are not recommended as they could potentially transfer dyes to your clothing or leave lint and dust in your drawers.
Finally, you could also choose not to line your dresser drawers at all. Some dressers already have a laminate or vinyl lining, depending on the age and make of the dresser, so there’s no need to add anything more.
Does peel and stick wallpaper stick to furniture?
No, peel and stick wallpaper is not designed to stick to furniture. It is designed to stick to smooth surfaces like walls, mirrors, and glass. Depending on the type of furniture, it may not adhere well—or at all—to certain types of finishes.
Some furniture also has an oily film that can make it difficult for adhesive wallpaper to effectively stick to the material. If you are looking for an easy way to cover your furniture with wallpaper, it is suggested that you use pre-pasted wallpaper or contact paper instead.
Pre-pasted wallpaper comes with its own adhesive and simply needs to be wet to adhere. Contact paper can be used to cover furniture and does not require any additional adhesive. If you decide to use contact paper, be sure to use a Scotch tape lint roller to remove any air bubbles.
What is an old trunk called?
An old trunk is often referred to as a steamer trunk, which is a type of luggage trunk that was typically constructed of wood covered in canvas or metal, and then bound with metal straps. It was named after the Method of transportation they were originally designed to withstand: trans-oceanic steamers or ocean liners, which were expected to carry heavy trunks on the upper decks of their ships.
These trunks were specifically designed to be robust and waterproof while protecting the contents of the trunk. They were also designed with a flat top, which allowed the trunks to act as seating furniture when opened.
Steamer trunks were popular throughout the 19th and early 20th centuries, and are still popular in vintage shops and antique stores today, as often times the original hardware, such as locks and keys, are still intact.
What’s the difference between a trunk and a chest?
Trunks and chests are both storage containers, but they have some key differences. A trunk is typically a larger, dome-shaped storage container that is often made of wood or metal. It is made to be easily submerged in water or covered in dust and dirt to withstand long travels.
It traditionally contains a hinged lid that is sometimes held in place with a latch. Generally, trunks are good for items that need to be secured and protected, such as clothing, documents, or important items that are travelling.
A chest is a rectangular storage container. Unlike trunks, which are typically made of wood or metal, chests often have a wrap-around lid that is attached to the body of the container. Although chests are sometimes used for travelling, they are not designed for durability and may not stand up to all forms of weather, making them less suitable for long-term storage.
They usually have false bottoms and secret compartments, and are more commonly used for storing items that need to be kept in an organized manner, such as blankets, toys, or tools.
What is a wardrobe steamer trunk?
A wardrobe steamer trunk is a specific style of antique trunk that was popular from the late 1800s to the early 1900s. Wardrobe steamer trunks were designed for people to travel with, providing ample storage and an easy way to transport their clothing.
They were typically constructed from wood, leather, or wicker and usually reinforced with heavy metal bands or straps. The trunks had rudimentary drawers and shelves for clothes and smaller items, a hanger bar for jackets or suits, and several storage compartments for valuables.
The trunk could then be locked for safety and often had a tray for easy access to items. Wardrobe steamer trunks were also popular with the military and could often be seen on Captain’s Quarters or in cabins on cruise liners.
Today, these unique trunks have reappeared as a stylish and functional storage solution in many homes, bringing with them an appreciation of history and nostalgia.
Are steamer trunks valuable?
Steamer trunks are potentially quite valuable, depending on several factors. Age and condition are generally the most important. The older a steamer trunk is, the more likely it is to have been well made and have withstood the test of time.
This means that the older and better preserved a piece is, the higher the value. In addition, factors such as the condition of pieces such as the leather and brass, size, and design can also affect the value of a steamer trunk.
Some of the more exclusive pieces with intricate designs featuring rare materials can command quite high prices. The more rare and intricate the details and materials, the more valuable a steamer trunk often is.
Additionally, some fine examples are also linked to certain notable persons or eras in history, and this can add to the value.