Custom Mail Boxes...

 

Organize Your Mail

Using Chalkboard Paint

 

 Materials: Tip: When you go to the hardware store make sure to check the "Oops" paint shelf for great deals for a project like this.

* 1 or 2 Unfinished mail holders ( I found these at Michaels)
* Multi-Purpose primer ( I use Valspar :tinted gray)
* Light colored paint ( I used a cream: latex)
* Red paint (This is a pre-mixed red:Valspar enamel gloss)
* Chalkboard Paint
* Med grit sanding sponge (much easier for distressing)
* Small paint brush or sponge brush
* Small artist brush
* Old rag ( paper towel will work too, just not as good)
* Paper & Pencil

Steps: Tip: Layering  multiple colors of paint

will give you a since of depth: creating an aged appearance.

 

1. Lightly sand any rough areas & wipe down with damp towel.

2. Paint with Primer & let dry.

3. Paint with cream ( just kind of a light coat) & let dry.

4. Paint with red & let dry. (may need 2 coats of red).

5. Sand lightly all over for a more antique look.

( I decided that I didn't want mine to look new and glossy,

so I sanded most of the sheen off).

6. Sand harder over the edges to give it a "worn" look.

7. Wipe down with damp cloth.

8. Optional: I made my own glaze by mixing a bit of my

grey primer, a tad bit of chalkboard paint and a few drops of water.

*Paint this glaze over areas you want ( I did it all over).

* Wipe it off with a rag or paper towel.

* Repeat in some areas to make darker & wipe away.

9. Make a template out of paper of the size & shape

that you want your label to be.

10. Use template and trace around it on your mail holder.

11. Paint label with chalkboard paint & let dry.

12. Paint a 2nd coat of chalkboard paint & let dry.

13. Use chalk or a chalk Marker to customize your labels.

 

Hang and Enjoy!