Window frames can be expensive so try looking for them at the curb. When remodeling, people often throw them out for any scavenger to find. Not only can picking up used window frames save you money, but they are also a great way to be environmentally friendly. Here are some tips on how to transform some people's trash into your country style treasure.
A New Window
Windows let in light and provide great atmosphere to the room. You can knock out part of the wall to put in a large window frame, which will make the room feel more spacious. Putting a mirror on the wall opposite the window will enhance the effect of the window. If you do not have a great view then print a photograph of a beautiful view or a print of your favorite landscape painting and put it in window panes instead of glass. Hang the window frame on the wall at the same height as a window. Then add curtains to complete the effect. You can switch out the picture when you want a change or even change it with the seasons.
An Arty Focal Point
You can use an old window frame to give a room that charming cottage look. Put it in a kitchen dining room, or any other location in your home. Try distressing the frame to make it look old. You can either use crackle paints to give it that antique look or have fun distressing the wood with a chain or any heavy object. Paint the frame to accent your home.
Flowers are beautiful, and by drying them and preserving them behind glass, you can see them all year around. Layer the flowers between two panes of glass. If you, or a family member, is artistically talented, then paint flowers, birds, or butterflies onto the glass. You could also paint flowers or other images on the frame itself, continuing the picture outside of the glass. Make the frame the focal point of the room by setting a table beneath it or hanging candleholders or sconces on both sides. You can also put a shelf beneath the window frame and put accessories on it including herbs and bunches of dried herbs or flowers.
An Organizational Tool Out of an Old Frame
There are so many things to keep track of that you can always use a blackboard for to-do lists and messages. It is fairly easy to turn a window frame into a one-of-a-kind blackboard. All it takes is some blackboard paint. Before you use the blackboard paint, decorate the frame however you want by painting, distressing, staining, decoupaging, or using stencils. After the frame has completely dried, tape the edges to prevent splatter and use the blackboard paint on the panes. Once it has dried, you can remove the tape and hang it up. If you want to add a ledge to hold chalk and other accessories, attach it before painting the frame.
Outside Art in Your Garden
Do not think that your use of window frames is limited to indoors. You can also use them in your garden by turning them into a window box. In order to make a window box, you will have to build a box the same size as your frame and paint them the same. Although you can use white as a clean backdrop, it might be fun to use a brilliant color that complements the flowers you plan on putting in. Remember to drill holes for drainage and use strong enough screws when attaching your box to a fence, porch, or wherever else you decide to put it.
You can also create a sense of depth in your garden or yard by putting hanging a mirrored window frame on a fence or shed the same way it can create depth in a room. If you love to garden you can also put an old window frame to use in your garden shed or garage by attaching hooks to it to hang your gardening tools from.
