Wednesday, 1 August 2012

What to Do With Old Windows

That time of year is upon us once again. Time to do some spring cleaning and get our homes back under control. Just hearing those words can make us nervous because it elicits thoughts of getting buried in dust and old attic junk. Spring cleaners tend to have a big challenge with windows. Whether you have found some old windows lying around during your cleaning session, or are looking to replace your home's current ones, your old windows can gain a new life by turning them into something beautiful and one-of-a-kind. Here are a few ways to give your old windows a new life:

1. Recycled Window Picture Frame

Two things that many people don't know what to do with are old windows and old photos. Why not combine the two to make an awesome picture frame? The more panes the better, as it means you can fit more photos! These picture frames are great as they add a vintage flair to any home, and at the same time it gives you a great way to share your memories. All this project calls for are some old photos, an old window frame, glue or tape and some decorative paper.

How To: This project is so simple! All you have to do is carefully turn the frame over so it is face down. Secure your photos to the back of the window panels using glue or tape. If your window does not have multiple panes and has only on large space, you may want to apply decorative paper behind the photos to fill in the space around them. This will act as a beautiful backdrop for your photos. Secure your frame using weight appropriate wall hangings and brighten up your home with memories!

2. Jewelry Display Rack Made from an Old Window

Where is your favourite necklace or watch sitting at this very moment? In a drawer? In a box? Reusing an old window is to make a unique jewelry rack is a great way to display your pieces and keep them in one spot. A display rack allows you to display your beautiful jewelry like artwork and even add a splash of colour to your space.

How To: Secure a fabric of your choice to the backs of an old window or each individual pane using a staple gun or hot glue gun. Next, choose the hardware you want to use to hold your jewelry. You have total creative freedom here. Using screws, attach your hooks to the front of your window frame where you want your jewelry to be hung. The fabric pieces we attached make a perfect place to secure your earrings. Simply poke the post of the earrings through the fabric to keep them in place.

3. Coat Rack Made from a Reused Window

Not so different from turning an old window into a jewelry rack, windows with a heavier frame can be used to hold your jackets and hats. Using an old window as a coat rack adds a great visual to your entry way, showing off your creative flare to the visitors of your home. Any type of window can be made into a coat rack but I say, the more panes the better, as it will allow you to add your own little flair by adding photos, fabric, glass, or any decorative pieces.

How To: A good idea for a bit of visual interest is to start by painting the window frame first. Be sure to sand down any splinters or rough edges on the frame first before you paint it. Line C or S- shaped hooks along the bottom of the window, and secure with screws. If you want to try something a little more creative, using antique doorknobs instead of screws will give the rack an even more vintage feeling. Be sure to support the racks full weight by hanging it with the proper hardware. And voila, now you're ready to hang your hat and relax!

4. Fabric Headboard Made from an Old Window

If you really want to be creative, using an old window as a headboard is an extremely creative and beautiful way to reuse your windows! This will give your bed a beautiful, cozy feel. The only things you need to do this are, a few old window frames depending on how big or small your bed is, fabric of your choice, fabric scissors, staple gun or hot glue gun and pliers.

How To: If there are shards of glass in your old window, carefully remove them using the pliers. You may choose to sand the window frames down as well. Second, attach your fabric print side down to the back of the window frame. Make sure to pull the fabric as tight as possible to give it a smooth look. Securing the fabric is done using either the staple or glue gun. If you want a more creative look, alternate fabrics between the different panels. To finish, turn the frame over and hang it ver your bed where a headboard would go.

5. Reused Window Chalkboard

If you need to spruce up a kid's room, or you want a cool idea for your kitchen or living room, an old window turned into a chalkboard can make this happen! It's easy to do, creative and functional!

How To: Carefully and thoroughly clean any old film or dirt off the old windows. Using chalkboard spray paint, cover all glass surfaces. Wait for the paint to dry, and you've got yourself a new chalkboard! You can also add creative elements to the frame such as fun stickers or different coloured paint for the frame.

Side Note: It is essential to know that to get the best results you should try to avoid using vinyl windows for these projects. Wood-framed windows are the best options for doing the DIY projects as wood is easier to paint.

No comments:

Post a Comment