5 Crafts You Can Make With Your Old Window Panes

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Over the years windows can become drafty, hard to open, cracked, warped, and discolored. While this home upgrade costs thousands of dollars, new windows pay for themselves in the money you'll save on energy usage. What's even nicer is that once you've picked out replacement windows, you can use the old window panes for a wide variety of crafts. Who could say no to making good use out of an otherwise old and unusable item?

If you love repurposing, this is the article for you. Keep reading to learn about 5 crafts you make with your old window panes.

1. Chalkboard Window

For years now chalkboard paint and signs have become all the rage. With an old window pane, you can turn the structure into a unique blackboard, creating a stylish communication center. A chalkboard window works perfectly in the kitchen as it can be used for writing down chores, the grocery list, or it can serve as a fun place to doodle.

To make a chalkboard window you'll need to first clean the window pane to remove all debris. It's also important to wipe any dirt or dust from the glass. Next seal the frame, let it deal, and then tape off the frame to keep the chalkboard paint from seeping into it. Next apply chalkboard paint to the glass. Apply 5-6 thin coats in a well-ventilated area.

Let the chalkboard cure for at least 24 hours. Once dry, it's time to hang it up and put it to good use!

2. Mini Greenhouse

Do you have a green thumb? Have you ever wanted to own your own greenhouse? Using old windows, you can create a cute greenhouse that's ideal for growing herbs, small flowers, and even produce! With a mini greenhouse you can grow starter plants that can be transplanted into a larger garden.

To create a mini greenhouse using old windows:

1. Find four windows of the same height and width
2. Square the wooden edges so that they're flush and use nails at the corners to create a box
3. Use a fifth window as a roof for the top of the greenhouse
4. Place the box on an elevated service to prevent excess moisture

To seal the greenhouse, use caulk to better regulate moisture. You may also want to spray the inside of the greenhouse with weed block to minimize the growth of pesky weeds.

3. Wreath Display

Usually you'd find a wreath hung on a door, but you can create a stunning backdrop using an old window pane. Creating a wreath display is extremely easy and takes less than an hour of your time. This is the perfect way to spruce up a bare wall, especially if the space already has a rustic or farmhouse look.

For this project you'll need a mild cleaning solution to wipe the window down. You may also need to sand and prime the window pane, depending on if you want to apply a fresh coat of paint. Once the window pane is exactly how you want it, hang a wreath on it and hang the display on the wall.

Make the display functional by adding a wooden ledge at the bottom to set knickknacks and other cute display items.

4. Rustic Window Frame Mirror

There's never enough mirrors in your home! Mirrors are a great way to make a small space feel larger. By using a windowpane to create a mirror, you can create a unique wall accessory that completes the rustic feel in your home. A mirror windowpane will look great in a bathroom, family room, or even above a fireplace.

To create a mirror using a window frame, you'll need to carefully remove the glass panes. Once removed, the glass needs to be replaced with mirrors that are the same size of the pane. But before installing the mirrors you may want to repaint or distress the window frame, depending on the look you want to achieve. After painting the frame and properly securing the mirrors inside of the frame, it's time to hang up your creation!

5. Jewelry Organizer

Are you looking for a fun way to organize your jewelry? While you could purchase a jewelry box or a necklace stand, an old window is the perfect structure for safely hanging your jewelry.

To create a window jewelry organizer, be sure to first thoroughly clean the window to remove any debris and then remove all of the glass panes. Next, sand and prime the window frame for a fresh coat of paint. A brightly colored window or even a distressed look creates a beautiful piece.

To complete the project, use small hooks or drawer knobs to use for hanging necklaces, bracelets, and even rings.

Conclusion

By reusing your old windows, you can create beautiful crafts that will look great in any room in your home. Repurposing is also a great way to recycle and reuse, so be sure to put your old windows to good use!