How to Make a Racecar Mailbox

Fans of racing can show their support on their mailboxes.

For avid car racing fans who want to show off their devotion to the sport, a racecar mailbox draws attention to all who pass by. If you're handy with woodworking, consider making your own to save the cost of purchasing a new one. Decorate the car to resemble that of your favorite driver's.

Things You'll Need

• Metal mailbox
• Measuring tape
• Wood
• Scroll saw
• Safety goggles
• Urethane glue
• Outdoor acrylic paint
• Weatherproof sealer

Instructions

1. Remove your existing mailbox from its post. You can use the mailbox as the base of the racecar or use the opportunity to purchase a new metal box for use in the project. Measure the mailbox and remember the numbers.

2. Draw the outline of the racecar style of your choice onto a piece of wood. Make the outline slightly larger than the length and width of your existing mailbox. Use lumber that's no thicker than ½ inch.

3. Use a scroll saw to cut out the racecar outline. Wear safety goggles and ensure the room is well-ventilated. Make a rough cut around the wood to get rid of excess before proceeding to make your way around the outline

4. Trace the cut racecar outline onto another piece of wood and cut out in the same manner with the scroll saw.

5. Sand down any rough edges on the wood racecars.

6. Clean your old mailbox and paint the outside if needed.

7. Glue one of the racecar to one side of the mailbox using urethane glue, which works to bond metal and wood together. Attach the other outline parallel to the one on the other side. Allow time for the glue to dry.

8. Paint the front metal door of your mailbox in a checkered flag pattern using outdoor acrylic paint.

9. Add details to your racecar using paint. Paint the windows, doors, numbers, sponsor names, wheels and other important elements. Apply a weatherproof clear sealant to preserve the paint after it dries.

10. Mount the completed mailbox to your post.

Tips & Warnings

• Add wheels from a hobby shop for a 3D effect. Nail the wheels into place on your wood outline.

References

• Craft Ideas: Basic Wood Cutting with a Scroll Saw