Let’s face it… mail arrives and is dumped on the nearest counter, desk, box in some corner (not seen by man for decades). Here is a great idea to organize it and create an interesting architectural accent at the same time.
The project of this article is a “mail storage unit made of a single or double shutter”. Here is how to do it:
Step 1 – Find a simple blind or an interesting pair that are in good condition and the blinds of the blind are in good shape and not broken or loose.
Step 2 – Go to your local home improvement store and check in your “bad cut” area to see if you can score a 3/8 to 1/2 inch piece of plywood. Be sure to get a piece that can be cut to the same dimensions as the shutter (or both shutters if you decide to make a pair of mail storage shutters).
Step 3 – Cut the plywood the same size as the shutter.
Step 4 – Paint the back of the plywood if you wish or leave it natural as it won’t show except when looking at your creation from the side. Your choice.
Step 5 – Lay the plywood on a flat surface and place a 1/2″ bead of wood glue around all four sides of the plywood about 3/4″ from the edge.
Step 6 – Place the shutter on the plywood and place a clamp on each of the four sides of the shutter and the plywood that has been joined and allow to dry overnight. (It is interesting to know if you need to repair or create any other use of the joined wood that when you use a generous amount of wood glue on any joined wood surface, the joint will be stronger than the original wood! The trick is to let it dry for overnight instead of rushing to the next step of your project before the glue dries).
Step 7 – After the wood has set overnight, you have your “shutter mailbox” unit ready to add any individual touches that might inspire you. Drawer pulls and handles, cool reclaimed metal pieces, door knobs, wood accent pieces are all great accent touches.
Step 8 – Attach two picture hooks, picture hangers, or connect a lightweight picture wire to the back and find a truly inspiring wall to hang your new creation.
Step 9 – Take the next batch of mail and place a piece or two on each of the blinds. You’ll find that mail looks organized and easy to retrieve when you’re “in the mood”!
Using reclaimed architectural materials is a great way to show off your creativity and add “antique accent” touches to your home. Finding wonderful new functions and uses for your great architectural treasures shows your designer a smart as well as an ecologically useful role in saving these great items from landfill.
If you’re ever in Southern California, stop by and visit the Silverado Warehouse, our two-acre primitive architectural former “wonderland.” We are in Rainbow, California (4 miles from Temecula). You can also visit us online at http://www.silveradowarehouse.com.
