DIY Decor Ideas To Repurpose Old Wooden Windows

Are you thinking about replacing your old wooden windows? While these classic frames add significant charm, they often lose energy efficiency over time. At Earthwise Windows, we help homeowners upgrade to modern, energy-saving vinyl windows, but we hate to see those beautiful antique frames go to waste. Instead of throwing them away, you can use these antique window projects to bring a rustic, shabby-chic look to your home.

Quick DIY Window Ideas

• Organizational tools: Create message boards or jewelry stands.
• Home gallery: Turn panes into photo frames or hand-painted art.
• Functional decor: Build unique chalkboards or medicine cabinets.
• Simple displays: Use bare frames as rustic accents on mantels.

Transform Your Space With Antique Window Projects

Replacing your windows with Earthwise Windows is a smart move for your energy bills, but keeping your old frames for decor is a smart move for your style. Here are several creative ways to give those old panes a second life.

 

Chicken Wire Message Board

This is one of the easiest craft ideas for old window panes. Remove any broken glass and staple chicken wire to the back of the wooden frame. You can use small clothespins to hang notes, grocery lists or Polaroid photos. It’s a perfect organizational tool for a kitchen or home office.

Photo Source: Under A Texas Sky

 

Multi-Pane Chalkboard

If your window still has its glass, you can turn it into a chalkboard. Apply chalkboard paint directly to the glass panes. If your window has multiple sections, you can use each square for a different day of the week to create a giant family calendar.

Photo Source: Thistlewood Farms

 

 

Vintage Window Display

Sometimes, the best old windowpane ideas require the least work. You can lean a large antique window against a wall or place it on a fireplace mantel. Adding a seasonal wreath or a few hanging Mason jars filled with flowers can make the frame look like high-end gallery art.

Photo Source: My 100 Year Old Home

 

Medicine or Display Cabinet

If you’re handy with power tools, you can use an old window as a door for a small wall cabinet. This works well for a bathroom medicine cabinet or a curio box to showcase small collectibles. The glass protects your items while letting everyone see them.

Photo Source: Shiplap and Shells

 

Rustic Photo Frame

Antique windows are naturally beautiful frames. You can tape your favorite family photos behind each pane of glass. This creates a window into your favorite memories and serves as a much more interesting conversation piece than a standard store-bought frame.

Photo Source: Cottage Instincts

 

Custom Jewelry Stand

If you have a smaller window frame, try this craft. Remove the glass and replace it with a decorative metal mesh. You can then hang earrings and necklaces from the mesh. It keeps your jewelry from getting tangled and adds a vintage touch to your bedroom or dressing area.

Photo Source: Oak Ridge Revival

 

Painted Glass Art

For those who feel extra creative, the glass panes can be your canvas. You can paint landscapes, flowers or even inspirational quotes on the glass. This is a great way to customize your decor to match your room's specific colors.

Photo Source: Right Up My Alley Design

Out With The Old, In With The New

Repurposing your wooden windows is a great way to keep a bit of history in your home. However, for windows that protect your house, it’s important to choose a durable option.

Earthwise Windows is a leader in vinyl window manufacturing. We build windows specifically for your local climate so they perform perfectly year-round. If it’s time to replace your leaky wooden windows with energy-efficient vinyl, visit our website to find a local manufacturer.