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Adding a Shelf to an Old Window

I saw this old window in a pile at our cottage and I instantly knew I wanted it.

old window before

I took it home and painted it. I wanted to hang it in our family room but I didn’t exactly know how to customize it.

I didn’t know if I wanted to add photos to it or just hang it like a piece of art, but then I decided what if I add a little shelf to it?

Supplies:

  • Brackets
  • Wood cut to length
  • Screw Driver
  • Screws
  • Paint

I found these little brackets at Hobby Lobby and I knew they were perfect. They were also 50% off. Win.

hobby lobby brackets

I was originally looking through my scrap wood pile but I couldn’t find any pieces that were long enough, or it was really nice wood that would have been a shame to paint and distress.

So I went to Lowe’s and had them cut a piece of  inexpensive white board. I didn’t care about imperfections or knots. It was going on the old window with it’s own imperfections so it would blend in.

When I got home I laid it on the window and attached the brackets. It was really simple that I forgot to take pictures because it took me literally 4 minutes.

I painted everything white, distressed and added a little antiquing wax.

I love how it turned out! This room feels warmer and cozier every time I add something.

I chose to style the shelf simply with items around the home. I know it will keep changing with the seasons, and I’m still thinking about what I want to do with the glass. For now, I love it how it is.

old window shelf
old window shelf 3
old windowshelf2

I did this project years ago, and since have makeover our family room but I am happy to report that this window has made it back to our cottage and put into one of the bedrooms. This time thought I ordered a long photo of one of the sunsets on Seneca Lake. So now this bedroom has a great view as well!

Donna

Tuesday 29th of March 2022

Just love what you have done with the window! Looks great on your wall above the couch! And the shelf with those brackets looks amazing! Great job!!!!??

Karen

Thursday 17th of March 2022

Love your window shelf. There is something about the look of an old window that makes me want to repurpose it and give it new life. And and also save it from the landfill.

Holly

Saturday 2nd of May 2020

I have window double that size and a massively empty wall to put it on - however I need help in how to hang it. It is heavy. How did you hang yours on the wall?

HOMEGIRL

Tuesday 12th of May 2020

I used D-Ring Hooks and put screwed into the studs. I would suggest to find the studs and put the D-Rings on the window where the studs are so it is where you want it to be. If it's extremely heavy you can also use a French cleat.

La Claire Diamond

Sunday 22nd of September 2019

Absolutely love this project! Have just moved into new home and have lots of wall space to work with. I'm definately going to put this on one of them.

Melissa Hartsel

Tuesday 7th of August 2018

I'm so late to the game commenting on this! It turned out sooo cute! How on earth did you hang it with the heavy glass still intact?

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