How to make a suitcase coffee table

Eric Perry

Introduction

When air travel was less common, suitcases and trunks were built to last. In steamy days, it wasn't common for them to splash around the hull in the water.

Fortunately, due to pride and quality in construction, many of these old suitcases still exist. With a minimum of work, you can easily turn one of these into a coffee table that will last for years to come.

Step 1

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Find the perfect suitcase

Start by hunting your local antique stores, flea markets, and garage sales for old suitcases and trunks. Make sure it's solidly built and well-built, even if the locks or latches don't work.

Step 2

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Source the legs

Fountain legs for your coffee table. Many vintage or recycled items could work, but in our case we found these newly constructed fur paws quite charming.

Step 3

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Measure and cut

Next, measure the inside dimensions of the bottom half of the suitcase. Using a table saw, cut a piece of 1/4” plywood to 3/4”.

Stage 4

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Pick up the saw

Depending on the size of the suitcase, you may need to use a circular saw to make one or both cuts if it won't fit through the table saw.

Step 5

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Test setting

Try placing the plywood on the base and make sure it is flat against the bottom panel.

Step 6

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Remove hardware

If necessary, remove any interior hardware that may be in the way. Many supplies of old suitcases to hold hangers..

Step 7

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Attach the legs

Attach legs to bottom corners with 3/4” coarse thread screws. Since the legs of the hair clips slope, I placed them from the perimeter slightly.

Not only does this upcycled coffee table have a vintage look that will stand the test of time, it also offers functional storage inside.

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