Convenient Cover-up

A fuse box in the house is a necessity, but does it have to be so gray and ugly? Well, yes and no.

The box shouldn't be tampered with, but you can camouflage it with a family message board.

The project requires a small amount of wood, chalkboard paint, a small sheet of galvanized metal or corkboard, simple tools, and a little know-how. (Note: Check with an electrician to see if covering the box is a violation in your area.)

Step 1: Begin by measuring the outer edges of the fuse box. Using four 1 x 2s cut to fit, build a rectangle to surround the perimeter of the fuse box. Form a frame, and glue and nail the pieces together. You can use a miter box to make 45-degree cuts, or create simple butt joints to connect the boards.

Step 2: Build the door to be the same dimensions of the outside of the frame. Remember to construct the center divider too. Assemble with glue and nails. Be careful where you place your nails so you won't hit them later with the router bit. Once the glue is dry, use a router with a rabbeting bit, and cut a groove around the inside of both panels. These panels will later provide space for a chalkboard, a metal sheet for magnets, or a bulletin board. (Note: The chalkboard can be created by painting a piece of wood with chalkboard paint. Galvanized metal flashing makes a great magnetic board. Another option is to use a piece of corkboard.)

Step 3: Insert the chalkboard piece and either a metal sheet or corkboard into the panels. Plywood can be attached to cover the inside of the panels. A small shelf may be added to the middle of the front panel to hold chalk and an eraser.

Step 4: Attach the door to the frame with a small piano hinge. Once the piece is assembled, paint or stain the wood as desired. The box should be screwed into wall studs for greater stability.

Copyright Southern Progress Corporation Sep 2004
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