One consequence of buying a vintage horn is that you get a vintage case, which is often in pretty lousy shape. I've got two such cases on my hands at present. I like the fact that they "match" the horns, so I'm not anxious to get rid of them and just put the horns in a generic case. How would you go about breaking down and refinishing a case, velvet lining and all?

Find an uphostery guy... and there are also guys that restore suitcases and steamer trunks.

It is all mostly do-able, but sometimes needs special stitching equipment... that goes through the leather trim, wood case and all the way inside.

They also sell vintage cases on ebay... just in case.