DIY Faux Metal

Shabby Paints
by Shabby Paints
DIY Faux Metal Marquee Letter
Here is an easy way to get a lighted Marquee letter with out breaking the bank.
1. First you need to pick up a large paper mache letter and lights (I went with the vintage marquee look with clear globe lights, 25 count, but smaller lights would work)
Paper mache letter diy light marquee
Paper mache letter diy light marquee
Paper mache letter diy light marquee Paper mache letter diy light marquee
2. Cut the front out of your letter with a razor knife, remove the loose cardboard pieces inside.
3. Depending on how many lights you use space them out to look as even as possible and mark with chalk.
4. Drill a hole through each chalk mark, to accommodate your lights. With the larger bulbs you might have to get creative with the size of the hole, I had to widen with scissors since I didn’t have a drill bit large enough.5. Paint it all Licorice, back and front. (Or any other great SP color you’d like)
6. Dry Brush Stunning Silver for a steel look.
cardboard letter diy light marquee
7. Install your lights, hot glue or tape the back on the hard plastic part of your lights. Being careful not to get glue in the socket or on the wire.
8. Now the fun part…not, use small garbage ties or wire ties and hide the wires as best you can. The back will look like a hot mess.
Plug in and enjoy!
If you would like it to be rusted try this recipe for a rusted metal finish.
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 2 comments
  • Hannah V Hannah V on Dec 29, 2014
    SO awesome!
  • Vernette Vernette on May 12, 2015
    I have always wanted a marquee light but didn't want to fork over the $$$ for one. Nice job and super idea! I like your directions maybe I can get a cardboard letter in the near future!!
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