Old Window Project

I've finally completed my old window project and hung it on the wall. This has been one of my first successful DIY projects and I can't wait try some others! I distressed the old window with paint, and then replaced the glass panes with mirrors. This was my inspiration for the project from Pottery Barn: 

Step 1: Get an old window. I bought my window from an antique store on the side of the road for 10 dollars. I tried to find one that was structurally sound, but other than that it doesn't really matter what it looks like.

Step 2: Clean the window. Although you won't ever see any of the dirt after the painting, you need to make sure you have a clean surface to paint on. After this you will also want to sand it a little to make it a smooth canvas.

Step 3: Pop out the glass. If you are going to put mirrors in the window or a chalk board, etc. you need to get the old glass out of the window first. My glass just kind of popped out the back because the caulk was really old. I had to bring in back up for this part :)

Step 4: Prime the window. I used Bulls Eye 123 Primer for all surfaces. It went on easy and covered well. 

Step 5: Fake the wood. When you distress the window at the end, parts of the wood will be showing through. I used brown paint to get the window the color that I wanted.

Step 6: Wax it. Using a candle, rub wax onto the surfaces where you’d like to see some of your fake wood exposed. Edges, and corners are all places that would normally see some wear and tear. After you rub the wax on use a paint brush to lightly dust off the excess so that there aren't remnants on the wood. 

Step 7: Paint it. I chose Princess Ivory and I actually only did one coat of paint to increase the weathered effect. 

Step 8: After the paint dries, take a butter knife and lightly rub it over the areas where you put the wax. This will cause the top layer of paint to come off, revealing the fake brown wood look. Don't rub too hard though!

 Find a great place to hang it and enjoy it!!