The Easiest Trick To Repurpose An Old Window Into A Rustic Decor Piece

Windows are the eyes of a home, and old windows are the iconic base for new home decor. Those glass panels and sturdy trims are way too valuable to throw away, especially if the window has a unique shape. There are beautiful ways to repurpose an old window into home decor, and for this easy DIY, we're transforming it into a mirror. All you need is mirror-effect spray paint, like Rust-Oleum Specialty Mirror Spray, to turn the transparent glass panels into a stunning reflective piece.

Old wooden windows' frames give this design its distinct rustic look, but you can also complete this project with vinyl, aluminum, and fiberglass windows. It's a simple, budget-friendly DIY. Plus, when it's complete, there are a lot of ways to decorate with mirrors. You can prop it in a corner, display it on a shelf, or hang it on the wall. You can also decorate the mirror by painting the trim, adding a wreath, or boarding the edge with garland. Grab your paint and get ready to upcycle.

Before painting, you need to clean both sides of the window. Any streaks, grease, or marks may show through the paint and ruin the mirror effect. One part white distilled vinegar with 10 parts warm water should do the trick for sparkling glass. You can also spot-clean any stubborn stains with rubbing alcohol. Then use a microfiber cloth to ensure there's no liquid or lint left behind. Once the window is clean and dry, turn it on the backside. Line the glass panels with painter's tape and cover the trim with paper.

Now for the paint. Hold the can 10 to 12 inches from the window and spray the glass with a light coat of mirror paint in a back-and-forth motion. Allow each layer to dry at least one minute before applying a second coat. Add as many coats as needed until you get your desired look. Optionally, you can finish with a light layer of black spray paint to amplify the mirror effect.

To double down on the rustic look, try antiquing the glass with vinegar. An antique mirror is a stunning way to add vintage decor to your home and it's easy to create. After cleaning the window, mist white distilled vinegar onto the glass. Focus on the edges, where an old mirror would normally be distressed. Then, apply the spray paint over the vinegar, letting each coat dry before the next. Whichever look you go for results in a beautiful, rustic mirror that's unique to your home and style.