It really is amazing what kind of projects can be made with old windows. When you think about it, they’re just wood frames with glass or screen. But creativity with old windows (and all sorts of architectural salvage, really) has no bounds. So, the next time you see a stash of windows at a thrift or antique store, you might want to snag a couple to create one of these inspiring projects.
Cottage-Style Decor
Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
An empty window frame holds nothing and everything all at once. And by “everything”, I mean upcycle potential. In this case, screen was added in order to display some treasured doilies for wall decor. So much better than hiding those doilies away in a drawer somewhere, right?
Glass Art in Old Windows
Image credit: House of Hawthornes.
Thrift store shelves are chock full of clear glassware- and it’s usually pretty darn cheap, too. And once you have an old window to DIY with, you can assemble it all into a fabulous piece of hanging artwork like this.
Botanical Print Display
Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
Vintage botanical prints are so popular right now that it’s fairly easy to find modern reproductions of them in trendy boutiques and design centers. But you can also print copies of the original designs for your own framing endeavors, perhaps using an old window like this.
Organizing with Old Windows
Image credit: My Repurposed Life.
Old windows- glass or no glass- can be a great “canvas” of sorts when it comes to additions. In this case, a shelf was added, as well as some hooks, in order to turn this into a whimsical kitchen organizer. And let’s face it, whose kitchen couldn’t use something like this?
Scarf Rack
Image credit: Sustain My Craft Habit.
Salvaged windows come in all sorts of sizes and shapes beyond the traditional square. So, if you come across a long/tall one like this, keep this idea in mind. Doesn’t it work wonderfully as an upcycled scarf rack?
Old Windows for the Garden
Image credit: My Uncommon Slice of Suburbia.
I love to create unique and whimsical planters and garden decor, so this idea is definitely calling my name. An old window frame was paired up with wooden drawer to create a delightful strawberry planter. Such a fun and functional play on the concept of a window box!
Vintage Quilt Display
Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
A cutter quilt, or one that’s so damaged that it can’t be used on a bed anymore, may still have salvageable parts worth saving. And what better way to display a piece than behind an antique window like this? This display idea has tremendous vintage charm and is a beautiful way to show off a sentimental keepsake.
Dry Erase Calendars
Image credit: The Interior Frugalista.
If you have a home office or a busy family schedule to keep track of, then you know a dry erase board can be a life saver. And you can make your own with salvaged windows that look gorgeous and work perfectly!
Decorative Fireplace Cover
Image credit: My Repurposed Life.
Some folks love their working fireplaces, but others never use it as-is. Either way, an old window is a fun and decorative cover to use in front of your fireplace when it’s not in use.
Medicine Cabinet Door
Image credit: The Heathered Nest.
A smaller window might just be the perfect thing if you’re planning a bathroom remodel project. Because look how perfect it can be as a medicine cabinet door!
Screen Window Stitching
Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
An old screened window might not be the first thing when you think of a stitchable surface, but I assure it works delightfully! Plus, you can stitch other fiber and fabric pieces to the screen to make a one-of-a-kind piece of fiber craft art.
Potted Plant Shelf
Image credit: Pillar Box Blue.
Old windows and plants really do go hand-in-hand. But in this case, a small shelf was added to the bottom of the window. And it’s perfect for holding potted herb plants right outside the kitchen door!
Stenciling on Screen Windows
Image credit: Organized Clutter.
You might not think of window screen as a “stencilable” surface, but check out how good it can look! I’ve long been a fan of painting screen to give it a subtle pop of color, but stenciling adds an added layer of weathered texture.
Interchangeable Picture Frame
Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
Whether you want to display photos, pretty paper, or even seed packets like here, this upcycling idea is for you! Not only is the window ideal for framing individual pieces, but with this clever craft idea, you’re not actually gluing anything to the panes/glass.
Old Windows for Curio Cabinets
Image credit: My Repurposed Life.
Ok, so this DIY requires a little more wood working skill. But for anyone who’s up to the challenge, these DIY curio cabinets are a great idea for the right size windows. Because they’re perfect for repurposing as glass door fronts on these display cabinets.
Spring Decor Idea
Image credit: Our Crafty Mom.
As soon as Spring rolls around, we get so excited to throw open our windows and let the fresh air in. Which is kind of the sentiment that this Spring decor project evokes, doesn’t it?
Drying Herbs on Old Windows
Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
If your Spring/Summer garden is filled with fresh herbs, then take not of this upcycling idea. And while this particular version used an upcycled picture frame, a smaller screen window would be perfect for drying herbs, too.
Mantle Backdrop
Image credit: Dabbling & Decorating.
Sometimes the space above your mantle can be overwhelming to fill. But a collection of old windows like these is a great way to fill up the space in a unique and interesting way. You can decorate them or simply use them as a backdrop- either way, they’re perfect for leaning up against the wall above your fireplace.
Upcycle Ideas and Projects for Old Windows
Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
I hope these upcycle ideas and repurposed projects have given you some fresh DIY inspiration. Salvaged old windows really do hold all kinds of promise when it comes to creative reuse projects. Think you’ll be picking up a window or two the next time you visit an architectural salvage store? Or even your neighborhood Habitat ReStore, because they often have all kinds of reclaimed windows in stock, too.
Craft on!
S
Want to be notified when I publish my next upcycling project tutorial?
Join me on Social Media:
PIN ME!
Image credit: Sadie Seasongoods.
Sarah Ramberg is the owner of Sadie Seasongoods, a website that celebrates all things secondhand. From upcycling ideas and thrifted decor to vintage-centric travel itineraries, Sadie Seasongoods is a one-stop shop for anyone who loves thrifting and approachable repurposing ideas. Sarah is also the author of “Crafting with Flannel” and has been featured in numerous media outlets and magazines.
Have a question or like what you see? Please let me know!