UPCYCLE a Lunch Box into a Purse

 I found another lunch box at an estate sale....

 only $3!

 After sanding it,

 I wrapped the handle and other hardware in foil and tape,

to protect them from the paint,

and then I primed the lunch box with Rustolium.

 I chose my color: "Lipstick Red" by FolkArt craft paints.

 After brushing on three light coats (sanding in between)

I noticed how many "imperfections" there were in the lunch box,

instead of trying to work against them, I just went with it,

lightly sanding after the final coat, to bring out a "worn" look.

After all, it is probably 40+ years old.

 Taking it ourside, I sprayed three coats of a satin clear coat.

(Being sure to let it dry completely before each coat.)

 I took off the foil and tape on the hardware by using tweezers,

then cleaned up around them with Q-tips dipped in polish remover.

 All done, except for the embelishments!

There are several ways to decorate my new purse:

with jewelry (such as the necklace above), wrapped around the handle;

 magnets (like my vintage button ones I made a few years ago);

 silk flowers, or vintage pins;

 scarves or scraps of material.

 There's plenty of room for my necessities!

Now I have two LUNCH BOX purses!

What will you UPCYCLE?