Posted 10 years ago
KathyKay
(53 items)
This is a doll size trunk it has the embossed metal on the front, top and back the ends originally had paper, they didn't have the embossed metal. It is 16 inches wide and about 12 inches tall at the highest part of the dome. It has the original interior, which shows wear, I will try and save what I can but may have to redo some of it. The original color on the metal was gold and red. This will be my first attempt at doing the two color paint. I've done some research and from what I've read I need to use an oil based paint for the first color when that has dried paint the surface again with a water based paint gently wiping it off before it dries to expose the first color. Any pointers on paint colors would be greatly appreciated, I would like to stay true to the colors that were originally used when this trunk was made. I went to the paint store and was overwhelmed with the many shades of red so walked away with no paint in hand. I've also seen it done with blue and gold which is very pretty. Suggestions on color shade as well as how to get the two tone paint done are truly welcomed.
I keep looking in my area for a child’s trunk but so far have not seen one. The trunks you have presented are beautiful and I cannot wait to see this one brought back to life.
Thank you, agree the small trunks are hard to find. Years of being played with destroyed them, also I believe there were fewer made versus the full size versions. Most people didn't have the money to purchase an expensive trunk for their kids to play with. I purchased this one on e-bay, others I've gotten at antique shows or yard sales. Always keeping my eyes open for different styles to add to my collection.
KathyKay, this a really great looking, and great size, trunk you have here. I know that this one will look as marvelous as all the others you've done. Your work is tremendously beautiful. I can't wait to see this one after you've added magic touch.
typo: "added your magic touch".
Thanks for the vote of confidence. I'm hoping it will come out nice but being new to the paint method required to get the two colors done I'm a little unsure.
A great little embossed metal toy trunk! I try to stick to original colors when possible and I'm sure you can find some colors close to these, don't have to be a perfect match. The embossed metal can be challenging to paint and it really helps when the metal is embossed well and in nice condition. I've used several methods including the one you mentioned. Sometimes it helps to actually wipe the second color paint on the raised design with your finger tip. Sometimes a small brush may be needed for touch up. With some practice you can decide what works best for you. I done many of the larger size embossed trunks and a few of the doll size. I hope the project goes well. It's great that it has the complete interior too!
I have also found that painting the raised portion with a hard flat piece of rubber(Flat rubber stamp) works well.(Minimal paint)Lightly dabbing the surface ,Better to dab two light coats then one heavy one.This avoids the paint running to the lower surface.The artist brush and patience is the difference in a show quality job.It is always a shame when people tape the inside compartments on the lithograph side,they don't realize it destroys the piece.Much luck with it,nice find.
Thanks TrunkerMarvin and Drill for the advice. I have to get to the paint store and pick out the colors then I will give this a try.
I'm where you were at. I'm down to the beautiful silver embossed metal. Trying to decide whether to leave it or add color. What did you decide? Can you share some tips on how to paint, stain, or color embossed metal?
trader44 - I ended up leaving the metal unpainted because I liked the look and also didn't want to tackle a two color paint job. I posted a picture of the trunk when it was finished, view my other posts to see it. Used tung oil on the wood as well as a light coat on the metal.
I located information on how to do two colors online as well as pointers from other trunk collectors on this site. http://www.shenandoahrestoration.com/Hints.html
Haven't attempted to complete a two color one yet.