How to Turn a Vintage Suitcase into a Medicine Cabinet with Shelves, Mirror and Hooks

# Overview This project converts a vintage hard-sided suitcase into a functional medicine cabinet sized for a small ensuite. The finished cabinet holds toiletries at eye level, provides shelf storage, mirror(s) on the lid, and hooks for small items — all while keeping the bathroom countertop clutter-free.

# Why this works Hard-sided vintage suitcases have a flat interior and a hinged lid, making them a natural enclosure for shelves and mounted mirrors. The approach in this project focuses on simple, durable attachments (screws for shelves, transfer gel for fabric) and finishes that match a rustic aesthetic.

# Supplies used

• Vintage hard-sided suitcase with flat sides
• Small round mirror(s) and mirror hanging hardware (short screws if needed)
• Fusion Mineral Paint (Cast Iron, Raw Silk, Algonquin, Willowbank mentioned)
• Fusion Decoupage and Transfer Gel or Mod Podge
• Fusion Mineral Paint Antiquing Glaze
• Paint brushes, rags
• Burlap (high-density for tighter weave)
• Thick twine and a glue gun

• Black cup hooks
• Black Velcro strips (optional for removable lid attachments)
• Cordless drill, miter saw

# Key steps

1. 1Prepare and paint the interior

1. 1Attach and seal burlap lining on the bottom

• Coat the bottom with a heavy layer of transfer gel or Mod Podge. Lay burlap across the bottom, smooth it, trim to fit so it doesn't climb the sides. Add extra transfer gel along edges for adhesion. Water down a top coat of transfer gel over the burlap to create a wipeable surface and allow to dry overnight.

1. 1Create a finished edge with twine

• Hot-glue thick twine around the perimeter of the burlap to hide cut edges and reinforce the look.

1. 1Install wood plank shelves

1. 1Mount mirrors and hooks on the lid

• Attach small round mirrors to the inside of the lid using mirror hanging hardware and short screws (long kit screws may be too long for the thin lid). For hooks, fasten a cedar strip or wood lath across the lid width and screw in black cup hooks. Use Velcro strips if you want a non-permanent attachment for the strip.

1. 1Finish the exterior

# Result and use The transformed suitcase keeps everyday items visible and accessible at eye level while clearing a small vanity countertop. Shelves hold bottles and jars, hooks store brushes and jewelry, and the lid mirror(s) serve grooming needs.

# Practical notes

• Use short screws for mirror hardware to avoid piercing the exterior. Test-fit all interior wood before drilling. Sealing the burlap with decoupage creates a wipeable surface that resists moisture.