Hello, I really like this old trunk and want to fully restore it back to something beautiful and use it to keep my bedding in etc. But I'm a little overwhelmed on how to start.

I'm going to remove all the old fabric from inside and then thoroughly clean the trunk, inside and out. But then I am not sure what to do next. I think this trunk has seen many adventures because the metal pieces on top are quite dinged up. I don't mind that look, I think it all adds to the character, but I would like the rest to be restored and painted. Hopefully to last another generation.

As the walls of the trunk are quite thin, I'm not sure if paint stripper or sanding is the best way to get it back to a good surface?

Also the top part of the trunk between the slats is not actually wood, but it looks like a very course canvas which was painted and now peeled off, so I can't sand that. But am reluctant to just paint over it. Any ideas. I can't really remove it because the slats go over the top of it. I'd have to dismantle the entire chest and I'm not really wanting that much of a restoration.

I think someone else along the way had a go at repairing or restoring it also. Because there are metal brackets over the metal corners on the side and some newer looking leather handles, which definitely look more modern than the trunk.

Would you sand it or use paint stripper, I guess is the first question? How do I deal with the painted canvas? After I paint it, is there anything I can put over the top to keep it protected for a long time?

Would you try and clean and polish the metal straps or just leave them with the patina? What color should I paint it?

Opinions always appreciated.
Thanks in advance
Jane