I took a 1939 case and stripped the fabric off of it, re-glued w/wood glue and then sanded it down until it was smooth. The metal I cleaned w/metal cleaner, oiled the lock mechanic and cleaned the rust spots. Several spots on wood had to be filled w/wood filler and then sanded when dry. Then I found some decor fabric and covered the box, glue w/ white Elmer's, cut the fabric very careful around the locking area and handle. The handle had to be covered also. That was hand stitched. It took me around 3 weeks to fix it up. It was fun to do but I do like a challenge.