Patterns to Paint on a Mailbox

Faux Finishing

• Different techniques can be used to faux finish your mailbox. An ordinary metal mailbox can appear to be made from stone, wood or even fabric. Use characteristics of the pattern with the function of your mailbox. You can paint a knot in wood on the flag of your mailbox. If you paint your mailbox to resemble denim, make the opening of the mailbox look like a denim pocket.

Nature

• Paint a nature pattern on your mailbox to reflect your surroundings. Tall trees painted around a mailbox for a cabin in the forest would be perfect. A beach house could have a sunset painted on the mailbox. You could even paint a nature pattern of a place you love.

Graphic

• Graphic patterns make a bold statement. Determine a pattern you like, such as stripes, checkers or even a graphic floral. Graphic patterns are most dramatic with two contrasting colors. Paint the base of the mailbox the lighter color, then draw a graphic pattern on top and fill it in with a darker color. You can reverse the dark and light colors for your pattern but will need to paint several coats of the lighter color.

Theme

• Use a theme from an interest or hobby to create a mailbox. Be creative with the placement of the pattern; remember the flag and opening of the mailbox can be used in the pattern. For a fishing theme, paint a pattern of boats around the mailbox. Align one boat with the flag of the mailbox. You can paint the flag as a fishing pole. Using a theme for your mailbox shows off your personality to neighbors and visitors.

General Tips

• Before painting on your mailbox, cut a piece of paper that wraps from one side of the mailbox, across the top to the other side. Cut another piece of paper the same size and shape as the opening of the mailbox. Use this paper to map out your patterns. This makes it easier to determine whether the pattern you created works well on your mailbox. It also helps eliminate mistakes when you begin painting the mailbox.