Outlet Covers

Want a quick and easy way to update those ugly switch and outlet covers? All you need is some paint, glue and scrapbook paper!

Maybe you’re thinking “I don’t have time for that” or “Who cares about those things anyway?”. Well, this small update takes little to no time at all, and you will notice a difference! Switches and outlets are things we use everyday and when they look a bit prettier and unique to your decor, it really makes a house turn into a home.

Prepping the Outlet Covers

Take down your excising covers and clean them really well. If you have wooden outlet covers like the one pictured below, you will need to spray paint the whole thing first. I use Rust-Oleum primer in gray or white. If you are using the plastic dime a dozen covers, you can skip this step.

Decorate Them

Then, after they are dry, decide what you want to cover them in. I used scrap-booking paper from Michael’s. Cut the paper a bit larger than the outlet, leaving overhang on all four sides. Then cover the entire face in a layer of Mod Podge. I buy mine off amazon so I can get the big container!

Press the paper onto the covers and let dry for at least 15 mins. On the wooden cover start trimming the excess paper off. I use an Exacto knife for this part, just follow the edges with your knife. For the plastic covers, you want to fold the excess over so the edges are covered. Cut and X where the outlet or switch holes are so you can fold them around the edge to the back.

Seal Them

Now you are going to use the Mod Podge again on top of the paper. This will give the whole thing a shiny gloss and make it easier to clean. On the wooden covers, just apply a layer on the whole thing and let dry. I distressed mine a little by lightly scraping the paint off the raised edges. For the plastic covers, the mod Podge will be used for sticking the folded over parts to the back of the cover. Use as much glue as you need, it will get messy! I use a small brush and my fingers to press the edges down on the back. Let it dry and pop those babies on the wall!

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I love way mine look, and I get a lot of comments from visitors about how unique they are. Don’t underestimate the effect of small details! Good luck!