DIY Trunk Coffee Table

I hope you love Trunk Coffee Tables as much as I do!  They are so functional and industrial looking.  I have always wanted one but they are a little pricy... here's the story of how I got one... for FREE.

You can also find this room featured in my, How to Style Sofa Pillows post.  And don't forget to check out all my DIY and Home Decor ideas!

First, let's admire this Potter Barn Coffee Table trunk that was sort of my inspiration.  Cute, right?

Pottery Barn Trunk Coffee Table 

One day my husband's uncle called and said he was moving and he had lots of Grandpa's stuff that he was going to throw out.  My husband immediately went over there and filled a trailer {and later, my garage} with tons of stuff.

 This trunk used to be Grandpa's tool chest.  He had it shipped when he moved to Hawaii in the 1950's.

 This is what it looked like {yuck} there was a lot of scrubbing involved.

After some cleaning, sanding, and staining...

It now resides in our downstairs family room.

I love the naturally worn look!

 I didn't sand where the address was written {it's such a fun heirloom keepsake}.

I added some fun, colorful accessories because this room is where the kids play.

I kept all the original hardware even though the knobs on the drawers are damaged.  Maybe some day I will decide to change them, but for now I like how it makes the piece feel worn, old, and loved.