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    Home » windows » Easy Window Project Fireplace Decor

    Easy Window Project Fireplace Decor

    Published by Gail | Published June 28, 2019 | Updated June 23, 2021
    As an Amazon Associate I earn from qualifying purchases.

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    How to make a custom fireplace screen out of an old window. Easy project with step by step directions. This fireplace decor is for when you're not using your fireplace or if it is a non-working fireplace. #MyRepurposedLife #easy #window #project #fireplace via @repurposedlife

    This easy window project will decorate your fireplace when it’s not in use. I updated the facade of my fireplace many years ago. It’s no longer a working fireplace, but I’m okay with that. I recently shared some spindle candlesticks for my fireplace. For the last couple of years, I’ve used a shutter fireplace screen. After seeing a pretty fireplace screen from my friend Diane (In My Own Style) on pinterest, I knew it was time for a change.

    Easy Window Project

     

    Easy Window Project Fireplace Decor

    It just so happened that I had everything I needed on hand.

    Supplies for Fireplace Window

    stash of old windows

    First, I went to the window department in the wood shed. My fireplace box is really, really large. It measures about 32 x 36. I didn’t have a window that large, so I chose the best suited size I had on hand.

    What you will need to make this easy window project:

    • Window
    • Paint
    • Small wooden brackets (4)
    • Sandpaper
    • Scraper
    • Paint
    • Painter’s Caulk
    • Spray Paint
    • Screwdriver

    Luckily, I had all of this on hand. It’s one of the perks for being a junk collector!

    Clean The Window

    clean old window for easy project

    Because the window had been stored in the wood shed, it was pretty dirty and dusty.

     

    spray window with hose

    I used a hose to knock off the dirt, then a rag to dry it.

    Remove hardware and more

    remove hardware and rope from window sash

    It’s best to remove the hardware and rope pulls before painting your window.

    *this post contains affiliate links, read more here*

    Tip for storing hardware

    don't lose hardware while working on project

    How many times have you misplaced hardware and such while working on a project? I’m lost stuff many times. I’ve learned to be more careful with knobs, handles and such. While I was working on this easy window project I wanted to make sure that my hardware didn’t get misplaced.

     

    Scrape or Sand Away old Paint

    scrape or sand old paint

    Old windows may have layers of old paint. Use caution, if you suspect lead paint, use a lead paint test kit.

     

    kitchen island craft work station

    Here’s a sneak peek into my kitchen island. It doesn’t hold the regular cooking utensils, but all the tools I need for a quick project done in the kitchen. It’s been too hot to work outdoors.

    Paint Easy Window Project

    paint old window easy fireplace screen projectOld windows are notorious for having less than perfect glazing. To make it less noticeable, I chose to paint onto the glass. I chose a nice Purdy paint brush for the job.

    Small Wooden Brackets

    small thrift store bracketsI got a great deal on these wooden brackets before Vendors’ closed. I’ve been waiting for the perfect project! They were already white, but I gave them a fresh coat to make sure they matched the window for the fireplace.

    Spray Paint Hardware

    spray paint easy window project

    Due to some windy weather, I had to place the hardware in a cardboard box in order to use the spray paint. I really liked how the original black hardware looked, I decided to stay with the contrasting black.

    Scrape Paint from Window Project Glass

    scrape paint from window glass

    A razor blade made scraping the new paint off the window pane a breeze. I only painted the front side of the window. The glazing wasn’t worth disturbing.

    Painter’s Caulk Improves Look of Window Pane

    window pane before and after caulk

    After scraping the paint off the window, the old glazing was showing through the back. I used a small bead of painter’s caulk in the joint where the window meets the trim.

    Install/Adjust Wooden Brackets

    install small wooden brackets

    The small wooden brackets were easily installed. I like that these brackets are adjustable. More about that later. Diane chose to install her brackets a little differently. I found that the way the screws are installed on the window frame make the brackets adjustable. The four brackets were installed identically, but then when I placed the window into the fireplace, it was off kilter. Therefore I had to adjust the front brackets.

    installing wooden brackets on window

    Let’s see if I can explain it. The length the screw travels in the little track is dependent on how much the screws stick out from the window.

    adjust window bracket

    Notice how the front brackets extend a little past the window frame. I suppose I could have raised the back braces instead of lowering the front ones.

    Easy Window Project as a Fireplace Screen

    easy window project for the fireplace MyRepurposedLife

    So, it’s not really a fireplace screen, but more of a decorative option when your fireplace isn’t operational or in use. I’m so happy with how it turned out.

     

    turn an old window into a new fireplace screen for an unused fireplace MyRepurposedLife

    Won’t you share it on Pinterest with your friends?

    Do you have windows in your stash? As you saw in the picture, I still have a lot to use for more projects!

    gail

    See more fabulous window projects here

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    1. Stephanie Dunbar

      February 28, 2020 at 12:19 pm

      I just went to my local Peddlers Mall and found one (it was really dirty and dusty) for $6.99 plus tax. My only thoughts now is to clean it up and paint it to stick on my wall for my kids pictures.

      Reply
      • Gail Wilson

        March 01, 2020 at 8:38 pm

        Awesome price for an old window. I just had a friend pick up two for me locally for $5 each. They are taller and more narrow. I thought they would be perfect for a cabinet. That's the good thing about old windows, so many shapes and sizes!

        Enjoy working on your new project!

        gail

    2. jane e willis-scott (Beth)

      July 09, 2019 at 8:06 pm

      I truly love this. My problem is that I do not have a shed full of windows. I've gone to several junk/antique stores and they want way too much money for them. Any ideas? Please don't tell me to make one. This project would be a challenge to me with a window already made!!
      Thxs,
      Beth

      Reply
      • Gail Wilson

        July 10, 2019 at 9:53 am

        Beth,

        Thanks for stopping by and asking such a great question! I always suggest that my friends ask THEIR friends. If you're on facebook, write a post update asking friends and family if someone has a window or knows anyone who does. Many people have this stuff laying around and don't know how to get rid of it. If you ask online and in real life, I bet someone can put their hands on a window for you. Now, it might not be the right size, but you will at least have a window to make a project. Maybe one of these projects will inspire you . . . https://www.myrepurposedlife.com/13-repurposed-window-projects-bakers/

        good luck, keep me posted!
        gail

    3. Julie Briones

      July 03, 2019 at 2:40 am

      I love me a vintage window upcycle! And this is a lovely idea! Just popped over from Marie's site! Thanks for co-hosting Talk of the Town! Looking forward to seeing you soon!

      Reply
      • Gail Wilson

        July 03, 2019 at 10:15 am

        Julie,

        I appreciate your visit! So many windows, so little time! 🙂

        gail

    4. vickie l obrien

      June 28, 2019 at 9:45 pm

      I love this idea - and I have exactly the window to use just need to find the brackets --- thank you!

      Reply
      • Gail Wilson

        June 29, 2019 at 10:27 am

        I'm thrilled that you are inspired to make this project Vickie. Thanks for stopping by and taking the time to leave a comment!

        have fun with your project,
        gail

    5. Jennie

      June 28, 2019 at 9:18 am

      I love this idea. And the spindle candle holders are great. Since vendors went out of business you haven’t done much furniture. What are you bringing to the shows you sell at, or are you no longer doing them?

      I am happy that you’re enjoying camping, your home and yard.

      Reply
      • Gail Wilson

        June 28, 2019 at 9:26 am

        Jennie,

        I only do one show a year, and it looks like I won't be doing it this year. That's why I'm not doing a lot of furniture at the moment. I do still HAVE a lot of projects waiting, so when it cools down I'll be back at it. 🙂

        gail

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