Wood Train Case

Supply List:
1 Nicole Craft wood traincase
2-4 sheets Graphic 45 scrapbook paper, Fashionista line (used in this project)
1 bottle DecoArt Crafter’s Acrylic, Navy Blue
1 jar Americana Varnish, Satin finish
1 jar Mod Podge, Satin or Plaid Royal Coat Decoupage Glue
Scribbles dimensional paint in White Mist, Gold, and Glittering Ruby
Clear self-adhesive gems
1 sheet fine sandpaper
1” sponge paintbrush
Scissors
Small screwdriver
Craft knife and/or nail file
Small zip-lock bag
Rag

Optional: Darice Purse Handle and Brackets

Instructions:
Step 1: Remove hardware

This will make it easier to handle and eliminates the chance of accidentally bending the hinge or a clasp out of shape as you work.

Use the screwdriver to unscrew and remove the handle, hinges and latch from the case; put these pieces in the zip-lock bag so you don’t lose them!

Step 2: Paint
Use the sand paper to smooth away and nicks, scratches or rough spots in the wood. Wipe off all the sawdust with a dry rag.

Use the 1” foam brush to apply the paint all over, inside and out. Set the piece aside and let it dry for at least 20 minutes before you start applying your paper (if you start gluing too soon the paint may smear or bleed onto your paper).

Wash the paint out of the brush with hot water and set it aside to dry too.

Step 3: Crop
While you wait for the paint to dry, cut out the images that you want to apply to the case. The more of the background you cut away, the more of the painted surface of the case will be visible. For the lining, cut ovals to set inside the lid and base, strips to cover the walls.

Step 4: Decoupage
Decide where you want to place the images before you start gluing. Try not to cover up all the holes for the hinges and clasp.

Use the 1” foam brush to apply a liberal coat of Mod Podge or Royal Coat to the back of an image and wait about 30 seconds before you apply it to the wood (this is to allow the moisture from the glue to soak into the paper so that it lays flat once applied). For pieces larger than 3” applying a layer of glue to the surface of the wood as well as to the back of the paper will ensure that it sticks well and lays flat. This rule applies gluing in the lining too. Glue the ovals in place first, then the strips for the walls. Use a craft knife or nail file to trim away any paper that sticks up over the edges (you can touch up the paint later if necessary).

Apply all your papers and then set the case aside to allow the glue you just applied to dry before you proceed (10-20 min.) - your carefully applied images will warp and curl up off of the wood if you top coat them before the underlying glue has dried!

Wash the glue out of the foam brush with hot water and set it aside to dry too.

Step 5: Top Coat and Varnish
Use the 1” foam brush to apply a liberal top coat of Mod Podge or Royal Coat over all of you images (this ensures that all the edges are glued down well and helps create a seamless look to your collage). Take care to not get glue on the inside edges of the lid or body of the case – the surfaces will stick together when you reassemble the suitcase and you will have glued the lid shut!

Let this layer dry completely (10-20 min.) – you’ll know it’s dry when all of the glue has turned clear and the surface feels room temperature (if it feels cool, the glue isn’t completely dry yet).

Wash the brush again, you’re going to need it one more time.

Step 6: Embellish
Apply self-adhesive gems where ever you choose (they make good “earrings” for your ladies). Use the Scribbles paint to highlight faces, flowers, dresses, etc. Let this paint dry completely before you move onto the next step. The drying time will vary depending on how thickly you apply the paint; Scribbles is a dimensional paint, which mean that it will remain in a thick bead if you apply it that way. Err on the side of caution, wait at least 20 min.

Step 7:
When the Scribbles paint has dried, use the foam brush to apply a liberal coat of Satin Varnish over the whole piece (it’s okay to coat the inside of the suitcase too). Let this dry (10-20 min…again).

You’re done with the foam brush now, so toss it out if it’s looking a little gnarly.

Step 8: Reassemble
Replace all the hardware, hinges first (this will make replacing the clasp easier), then handle and clasp.

Now is the time to attach the larger handle if you choose to (keep the smaller handle for use in a future project).

Done - now sit back and admire your handiwork!