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Wednesday, February 25, 2015

stunning shutters

 
The art of repurposing has reached new heights lately. There are so many was to upcycle vintage treasures in clever ways. I recently wrote an article for American Farmhouse Style magazine showing how to create a window style mirror using old shutters.
 
 
These shutters are so beautiful just as they are but turning them into a mirror totally transformed them into a one-of-a-kind masterpiece!
 


With just a few simple steps the transformation is easy to achieve...

Here’s what you will need:
shutters
wooden frame
mirror
hinges, brads, picture hanging hardware
screw driver, hammer
adhesive for glass



How to get started:
1.  Lay the pair of shutters on a flat work surface. Measure the outside dimension and add ½” to each side.
2.   Make a wooden frame to the specifications of the measurements in step one. If you are not comfortable building this step, visit your local lumber yard for assistance in creating the frame.
3.   Attach the shutters to the frame using metal hinges. Depending on the size of your frame, 2 hinges per shutter will support the weight.
4.   This is the best stage to apply any desired paint finish.
5.   Add two screw eyes to the top of the frame at equal distance from each end. Then attach a small decorative chain for hanging the mirror. Be sure the chain can support the weight of the finished mirror.
6.   Have a piece of mirror cut to the size if the outside of the wooden frame. Make sure to have the edges of the glass gently finished/sanded so they are not sharp.
7.   Lay the frame facing down on a protected work surface. Apply a bead of adhesive to the center of the wooden frame all the way around the perimeter. Carefully lay the mirror centered on the frame making sure all of the edges line up perfectly. Wipe away any excess glue and allow the adhesive to fully cure before hanging (read package instructions for dry times).
 

OPTION: If you do not wish to see the wire hanger at the top of the frame, choose wood or the frame that is at least 3-4 inches wide. Then cut the mirror 1 inch smaller than the size of the frame leaving enough room to add picture hanging wire to the back of the frame outside of the mirror. 

When it comes to any project (and if ever in doubt), ask the helpful pros at your local hardware store, lumber yard or chain home improvement center! They can not only offer advice but many provide wood and glass cutting services on site.

 
  Hold onto old world charm by giving old pieces of architectural salvage a new purpose. Repurposing is not only beneficial to the environment in which we live but it can also be a stylish approach to design and decoration. Recycling old materials such as architectural elements gives new life to old weathered treasures and adds an abundance of character to the interior décor of your home.
 



7 comments :

  1. Oh my word.....how I adore these shutters, Melinda! And what a great idea to use the with the mirror! I am so glad that we built inside shutters for our living room and kitchen. They have really saved us money with heating during this frigid winter, and last summer they kept out the heat. Now I want to add some to the guest room.... ;) Hope to see you soon, sweetie. We'll be down there next week!

    xoxo laurie

    ReplyDelete
  2. Hi Laurie! Great to hear from you. Thanks for the kind words. I just love shutters too. I bet you can't wait to escape winter! It's very pretty here and the sun and sand are awaiting your arrival! I hope you have a safe journey!!!

    ReplyDelete
  3. That was a good representation on how to use the old shutters for interior decoration.I love the color and how it goes with the pots and the succulents just give it that perfect Mediterranean feeling.The decoration was simple but looks pretty nice.
    shutters houston

    ReplyDelete
  4. I love this shutter also. Would be great for back side of my townhouse which gets extreme afternoon sun in the summer. But I probably would never be allowed to install. Also, it would prevent my watching all the bird activity on my patio, and I don't want to miss that
    shades houston

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. I love shutters inside and out. I agree with you...I don't want to miss a moment of watching the birds and butterflies in my garden!

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  5. Your content is nothing short of brilliant in many ways. I think this is engaging and eye-opening material. Thank you so much for caring about your content and your readers. outdoor blinds Melbourne

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