How to Clean the Canvas on Antique Trunks
Antique trunks are as popular today as they were when they were manufactured. No longer the luggage of choice for long trips, trunks still offer function inside the home. Although they're often little more than simple wooden boxes, trunks can add character to any room and most importantly, valuable storage.
One of the most common types of trunks manufactured between 1880 and 1920 had a flat top. Most of these trunks were covered with canvas. While trunks with intact canvas can be hard to find, it's important to preserve the original covering when possible.
Things You Will Need
- Paint brush
- Vacuum
- Sponge
Tip
Glue loose or torn canvas with a white glue, such as Elmer's. Preserve the canvas by applying a coat of clear, water-based polyurethane.
Warning
Don't wet the canvas on antique trunks, or use harsh cleansers, which could cause the canvas to come loose.
-
Brush the canvas covering with a clean, short-bristled paint brush.
-
Attach the brush attachment to a vacuum and carefully vacuum the surface. Pay careful attention to crevices.
-
Wet a sponge and squeeze out excess water.
-
Dab dirty spots lightly with the damp sponge.
The Drip Cap
- Antique trunks are as popular today as they were when they were manufactured.
- While trunks with intact canvas can be hard to find, it's important to preserve the original covering when possible.
- Brush the canvas covering with a clean, short-bristled paint brush.
References
Writer Bio
A journalist since 1985, Susan Walworth has written for both weekly and daily newspapers, including "The Eufaula Tribune" and "The Dothan Eagle." She has won numerous state press association awards for photography, news and feature writing. She holds a Bachelor of Arts in journalism from Auburn University.
Photo Credits
- Thinkstock/Comstock/Getty Images
- Thinkstock/Comstock/Getty Images
More Articles
