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painted mailbox with scrapbook paper decoupaged inside
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5 from 3 votes

Paint a Mailbox

Learn how to paint a mailbox with spray paint and make it last. This is a very easy project you can complete in less than a few hours.
Prep Time15 minutes
Active Time2 hours
Dry Time1 day
Total Time1 day 2 hours 15 minutes
Yield: 1 mailbox
Cost: $7

Equipment

Materials

  • Mailbox
  • Mod Podge Outdoor
  • Outdoor spray paint
  • Outdoor primer optional
  • All purpose cleaner
  • 4 pieces Scrapbook paper optional

Instructions

  • If at all possible, remove the mailbox from the post. If you can't you'll have to tape paper around it to protect the post.
  • Smooth out an areas that need it with sandpaper. You can also remove any rust at this point as well.
  • Clean the mailbox with mild soap and water. It helps to use warmer water and a scrub brush. Rinse with water and let dry.
  • If there is any flaking paint or rust, sand smooth with sandpaper.
  • If you can, spray with a white primer as a base. Hold the can 6-8 inches from the surface and use a sweeping motion. Apply several light coats, allowing to dry between coats.
  • Apply your selected color to the mailbox. Use an outdoor spray paint . Add a total of three coats and let stand 24 hours. Remember to keep the can 6-8 inches, and the coats should be light. Use a sweeping motion.
    Mailbox spray painted with turquoise spray paint
  • Make sure the mailbox is completely dry before you remove the painter's tape. Replace the mailbox if you removed it from the post.
  • To decorate the inside of the mailbox, add a layer of Mod Podge to the inside. Gently smooth down the scrapbook paper and let dry. Go over the inside of the mailbox again with Mod Podge and let dry completely.
    Mod Podge scrapbook paper to the inside of a coastal mailbox

Notes

Step 8: I decided against doing the entire inside of the mailbox. I didn't want to go overboard with the lobsters. ;-)