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.