Update an Antique Window
Today's project is one that's near and dear to my heart...antique windows. With or without the glass, old windows are such beauties and I love the character they add to a home!
Affiliate links may be included for your convenience; my full disclosure policy can be found here. If you click through and make a purchase I'll receive a small commission at no extra cost to you!
I love using old windows as art. I added an antique window to my renovated guest room, have one hanging in my kitchen, and then there's this big window.
This old window didn't even cost me a dime! My m-i-l's dear neighbor Louise let me pick out a couple windows from a stack in her yard in NC. It was like my birthday and Christmas all rolled into one!
Antique windows are usually in rough shape. Paint is often weathered, chipped and peeling. Sometimes the glass is intact, but often it's cracked or broken.
That was the case with this window. We had to knock all the glass out (always be careful when working with glass to use heavy protective gloves and safety goggles) because it was cracked.
We were left with this empty window frame. Most of the paint had already chipped off long ago so it was just weathered wood.
I wanted to give the window some color, so after brushing it with a stiff brush to remove excess paint and dust, I dry brushed it with my favorite pale turquoise paint.
I didn't even need to distress the window frame because by dry brushing, much of the original color was left.
Next I measured a length of lace and stapled it to the back of the antique window.
I went all the way around the whole frame, pulling the lace snugly so it wouldn't droop.
This antique window has been hung in a few places around our home, but I'm claiming it for my new office and craft space!
It's a beauty, isn't it? A large window like this makes quite a statement. Lean one on your mantle, or above a sofa for a dramatic statement piece!
bringing beauty to the ordinary,
Saw your link at Create-Share. I have a large antique window and have changed it up several times and moved it often, but you've shared an excellent idea - paint it! You've inspired me!
ReplyDeleteMary
Hi Mary, I'm so glad you were inspired by my painted window! Have fun painting yours!
DeleteVery pretty! Love the lace insert. Visiting from The DIY Collective party.
ReplyDeleteThanks so much!
DeleteI love your window, with the lace insert. I wish my dry brushing technique looked as good as yours. Maybe I just need more practice
ReplyDeleteAw, thanks Judy! Practice makes perfect! Just remember with dry brushing that you really want your brush almost completely dry. Wipe off the excess paint onto a paper towel before taking it to your piece...and keep some areas free of paint altogether to help with the "aged" look! Good luck!
DeleteYep, it is. Sorry it bothers you, but it works for me as I frequently hang a wreath from that little built-in hook :)
ReplyDeleteI love it! I'm going to be using this to restore my old window :)
ReplyDeleteThanks so much Amber, it's a fun piece to use all over my home!
Delete