I wish I could say that these metallic alphabet magnets were made on my first try. I’m not that perfect. This is my second go-around. The colors don’t quite jive with our space, so I gave them a touch of gold spray paint.

Before I get yelled at and judged by other parents out there, I have a second set of letters that I did not spray paint. The baby will be using those :). For now, Fatima and I get to have some fun.

The secret to making the metallic spray paint stay on the letters is a primer. Since the letters are smooth, shiny plastic, the primer will give you better coverage once you get to spray the letters with color. On my first attempt, I used a primer-spray paint combination. However, it was not so great.

If you’re going to make these metallic alphabet magnets, use primer.

One of the issues in this process was my patience. I started with light coats, per the directions. However, the paint started to pool and goop on the letters, so I would spray a little more. After a few coats, it seemed like the paint would not stick in some places. So I went back to square one, got a new set of letters and used a primer. The primer worked wonders!

Spray painting in an apartment in a city is tough. Well any large do-it-yourself project in an apartment is tough. You don’t have a garage, a yard, or a basement to use. At a previous apartment, I would use the fire escape. Not so great since the paint would fly right back in my face. However, this time, I used a spray shelter. I never knew this product existed until I asked Google “how to spray paint in an apartment.” While it doesn’t take care of the smell, it definitely protects you and your things from the paint.

Down to the details.

You don’t need kids to make these metallic alphabet magnets. I’ve sat on this project since the summer. Baby or not, I’d be making these. It’s more fun to use these as an adult because of the NSFW messages you can leave.

DIY Metallic Alphabet Magnets

Find a space that’s well ventilated, outside is preferable. However, if you are a city dweller, check out this spray shelter.

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Supplies

• Spray paint primer
• Champagne Gold spray paint (or other favorite color)
• Alphabet Magnets (small or large)
• Spray shelter

Directions

1. Magnet side up, spray the letters with primer. Let dry.
2. Once dry to the touch, flip the letters over to spray primer on the front. Let dry.
3. When the letters are completely dry, flip them over so they are magnet side up again.
4. Spray your color spray paint and let dry completely.
5. Flip over and spray the front.
6. Read the label for directions and spray additional areas of the letters for maximum coverage.
7. Let the letters dry completely before touching to avoid fingerprints.
8. Put them on your fridge or other magnetic surface!