East Fork Mailbox

So I've always loved the old mail collection boxes. I have also always been dissatisfied having a ordinary mailbox. In steps the East Fork Mailbox. Tada! No more ordinary.

Ana posted plans for Grace's Mailbox, and that's what I'm linking this post under, but there isn't really a whole lot of similarities outside the shape.

I don't know that it's really worth it to anyone for me to post actual plans. Since 100% of the materials I use are rescued/salvaged (every last board and screw), the plan shopping list would usually fall somewhere between goofy and impossible. When I build anything, the materials I have on hand dictate my plan, not the other way around.
Having said that, if anybody is ever interested in a real plan from me, let me know. I would be willing to work on a redesign in order to accomodate a more conventional materials list, just don't be surprised if I encourage you more than once to go scavenging for materials.

I did uplod this project to the Sketchup 3D Warehouse, but it's not perfect. I was in a hurry, so nothing is grouped as it should be. Also, the center section of my mailbox is a large drawer mounted on slides for packages and outgoing mail. The Sketchup model doesn't reflect that. Download it for a reference model if you'd like. http://sketchup.google.com/3dwarehouse/details?mid=551fcbbeb0e75c3dc2c3…

One more note: I built my mailbox 41", to take into consideration the terrain and road. USPS regulations dictate mailboxes meet certain dimensional criteria. You can find the regulations online or go chat with your postmaster.

Built from Plan(s)
Estimated Cost
maybe $5 total, I had all the material I used on hand
Estimated Time Investment
Weekend Project (10-20 Hours)
Finish Used
I wanted to paint it usps blue, but I lost the war on that one. Honey likes things to match a little better than I do. I used leftover exterior house paint instead of electric post blue so he wouldn't get worked up.
Recommended Skill Level
Intermediate