Any post box can transform into a royal post box if you paint it red and place the crown, current monarch’s cypher, and royal mail on it. Of course, it’s better to make one of your own and imitate the real thing’s shape and appearance.
The only challenge is that there are too many designs, models, and types of royal mail boxes. For this instructional article, the 1980 box vintage ER royal mail was chosen for simplicity’s sake.
Typically, this royal mail post box is made from cast iron. This how-to will teach you how to create a wooden one.
Preparing the Materials
Get a 4’ x 8’ x 3/4” plywood.
Cut the following panels:
• Top: 35cm x 25cm
• Left Side: 58cm x 35cm
• Right Side: 58cm x 35cm
• Back: 58cm x 25cm
• Bottom: 35cm x 25cm
• Front 58cm x 25cm
• Top: 49cm x 25cm
• Slot Cover: 6cm x 20cm
• Door: 30cm x 16cm
• Door Frame: 43cm x 9cm*
* Since this is a door frame, the middle part of the panel must allow the door to fit. To make things easier, cut the door frame first, and then cut the door from it.
Building the Post Box
Screw the top, sides, and bottom panels. You can apply some wood glue to add strength to the screwed panels.
Screw the top part of the front panel and then leave a space for the post slot.
Screw the door frame on the box. Install the hinges on the door frame and the door. You can use 3-1/2” hinges—it’s advisable to use brass or stainless steel if you’re going to use or install the box outside.
Get a small box lock and install it on the door. Attach the slot cover or rain guard on the slot. You can put hinges for a more secure and flexible fit. Or you can just install it with an angle using wood glue.
About the sign holder, you can just attach a brass hook on the door.
Finishing
Sand the post box with 100 grit sand paper. Wipe the dust off using a damp cloth. Let the post box’s surfaces dry.
Apply primer paint on the post box. Let it dry for at least 30 minutes. After that, coat the box with red acrylic paint. Let it dry for another 30 minutes.
Apply another coat of red acrylic paint. Use a paintbrush and be generous with the paint to create a thick layer. Let the paint sit for at least 10 minutes.
Get a palette knife. Using the knife’s tip, dent the thick paint as if you’re making dots on paper. Do this while the paint is drying.
Don’t apply too much pressure. If you feel you’re hitting the wood with the tip, lessen the pressure you are applying.
Lastly, attach the emblems. With this one, you can either do some metal work, or create the emblems using a 3D printer.
The final touch is tying the key on a thread of yarn and hooking it on the lock. Of course, don’t do this if the box if you’re looking to actually use the box to receive mails instead of using it solely for décor.
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