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.
