48 Repurposed Old Window Ideas and Designs

“I went window shopping today! I bought four windows.”  –  Tommy Cooper

An old window may seem like an odd thing to buy—four of them even more unusual. But as home décor experts know, there are dozens of creative ways to repurpose old window frames into something beautiful. Decorating your home or garden with vintage windows instantly adds a casual, historic charm.

From wall hangings to wreaths, we’ve collected an impressive gallery of repurposed old window ideas. As you scroll through, imagine the ways you can transform these discarded objects into useful, lovely keepsakes.

1. Turn Into A Chalkboard Frame

Repurposing old windows is a great way to add some charm and character to your home decor while also reducing waste. One creative and practical idea is to turn old windows into chalkboard frames. This project is simple and affordable, and it’s a perfect way to reuse old windows that would otherwise end up in landfill.

To make a chalkboard frame, you’ll need to clean and prepare the window by removing any old paint or dirt. Then, you can paint the frame with chalkboard paint and let it dry completely. Once the paint has dried, you can use the chalkboard frame to write messages, and reminders, or even draw pictures. This is a great way to keep your family organized or to add a personal touch to your home decor.

Repurposing old windows into chalkboard frames is an easy and fun DIY project that anyone can do, and it’s a great way to give new life to old materials.

2. Repurpose Into A Pegboard Frame

To turn an old window into a pegboard, first, remove any glass panes and clean the frame thoroughly. Then, paint or stain the frame to your desired color and let it dry completely. Next, attach a piece of pegboard to the back of the frame using screws and anchors.

Finally, add hooks and other storage accessories to the pegboard to create a customized storage solution for your garage, workshop, or home office. Repurposing old windows into a pegboard is not only practical, but it also adds a touch of vintage charm to your space.

Plus, it’s a great way to reduce waste and give new life to old items. So next time you come across some old windows, consider turning them into a functional and stylish pegboard.

3. Use As Table Decor

Another great idea is to use them as table decor. You can place them on top of a table, either horizontally or vertically, and add some candles, flowers, or other decorative items on top. This creates a unique and eye-catching centerpiece that is sure to impress your guests.

You can also add a bit of personalization by painting or distressing the windows to match your home’s decor style. Another fun way to use old windows as table decor is to create a shadow box by attaching small objects or photos to the back of the window panes.

This creates a layered and interesting display that is sure to be a conversation starter. So, before you toss out those old windows, consider repurposing them as table decor and add some vintage charm to your home.

4. Hang String Lights

A fun idea is to turn them into a charming string light display. Start by cleaning the window and removing any old paint or debris. You can then attach string lights along the inside of the frame using small hooks or clips. If you want to add an extra decorative touch, you can paint the window frame a fun color or distress it for a shabby-chic look.

Once you’ve hung your string lights, you can plug them in and enjoy a cozy and whimsical atmosphere in your home. This DIY project is easy to do and can be a great way to give new life to old windows while adding some sparkle to your home decor.

5. Create A Wall Art

By painting or staining the window frames and adding some decorative elements such as stenciling, vinyl lettering, or even adding small picture frames within the panes, you can transform a simple window into a unique piece of art for your walls.

You can also use window panes to display photos, artwork, or dried flowers. This DIY project is not only cost-effective, but it’s also eco-friendly since it gives new life to something that would otherwise be thrown away. Old window wall art can be hung in any room of your house, adding a touch of rustic charm to your home decor.

6. Use As Jewelry Organizer

One innovative way to use old windows is to turn them into jewelry organizers. By adding strings and clips or hooks to the window panes, you can create a beautiful and functional display for your necklaces, bracelets, and earrings.

You can customize the look of your jewelry organizer by painting or staining the window frame and adding decorative elements, such as knobs or hooks with unique designs. This DIY project not only adds a touch of vintage charm to your space but also helps to keep your jewelry organized and easily accessible.

With a little creativity and imagination, you can turn an old window into a stunning and functional piece of jewelry storage.

7. Create a Picture Frame

By attaching some rustic hooks or clips to the window frame, you can easily display your favorite photographs or family pictures. You can even add some decorative elements like twine or ribbon to hang the pictures from.

The vintage charm of the old window frame adds a unique and personalized touch to your home decor. Plus, repurposing old windows into picture frames is an eco-friendly way to upcycle something that might have otherwise ended up in a landfill.

So, next time you come across an old window, consider turning it into a beautiful picture frame and adding a touch of rustic charm to your home.

8. Paint Or Print On The Glass

One creative way to repurpose old windows is to paint on the glass area. You can use stencils or freehand painting to create unique designs that suit your style. If you’re not confident in your painting skills, you can also print designs on adhesive vinyl or window film and stick them onto the glass.

This is a great option if you want a more polished look or want to add a pattern or image that would be difficult to paint by hand. When choosing a design, think about the room where the window will be displayed and consider the color scheme and style of your decor.

You could use a bold pattern to add a pop of color to a neutral room or create a subtle design to complement an existing color scheme. By repurposing old windows and adding your own creative touch, you can give new life to an old item and create a unique piece of art for your home.

9. Build A Greenhouse

By using old windows, you can build a greenhouse that allows plenty of natural light to enter while also keeping your plants protected from the elements. T

o build a greenhouse from old windows, you’ll need to start by constructing a wooden frame using reclaimed materials. Next, you can use the old windows to create the walls and roof of the greenhouse, ensuring that they are securely fastened to the frame. To improve insulation and create a warm environment for your plants, you may want to consider using weather-stripping or silicone caulk to seal any gaps or cracks between the windows.

Finally, you can add shelves and other storage solutions to create a functional and organized space. Repurposing old windows into a greenhouse is a great way to keep your gardening hobby going all year round, while also reducing waste and creating a unique and charming addition to your backyard.

10. Install A Rustic Mirror

If you’re looking for a unique and budget-friendly way to add some rustic charm to your home decor, consider repurposing old windows into a beautiful mirror. By removing the glass from the window frame and replacing it with a mirror, you can create a one-of-a-kind piece that is both functional and decorative.

The old window frame adds a touch of character and vintage appeal to the mirror, giving it a rustic and charming look. You can leave the frame as is or sand and paint it to match your decor style. An old window mirror can be hung in any room of your house, adding a touch of warmth and character to your decor.

11. Turn Into A Plant Rack

A unique way to repurpose old windows is by turning them into a plant rack. By adding hooks to the bottom of the window frame, you can easily hang small potted plants from the panes, creating a unique and eye-catching display.

The windows can be painted or stained to match your decor, and the plants you choose can add a pop of color to any room. This DIY project is not only aesthetically pleasing but also functional, as it allows you to utilize vertical space and free up valuable counter or floor space.

12. Frame Dried Flowers

To do this, simply arrange your favorite dried flowers between two sheets of glass from the window, and secure them together with clips or small screws. Then, attach the window frame to the wall, and your beautiful, one-of-a-kind piece of wall art is ready to be admired.

Not only is this a cost-effective way to decorate your home, but it’s also eco-friendly as it repurposes something that would otherwise be thrown away. Framed dried flowers can be hung in any room of your home, adding a touch of natural beauty to your space.

13. Use As A Styling Tray

This DIY project is easy and affordable, and it can be completed in just a few simple steps. First, remove any old paint or dirt from the window frame and give it good sanding. Then, add some decorative elements to the window frame, such as stenciling, painting, or staining, to give it a personal touch.

Finally, add some handles to the sides of the window frame, and you have yourself a beautiful and functional tray! This repurposed window tray is not only a great addition to your home decor, but it’s also a sustainable option that gives new life to something that would otherwise be discarded.

You can use it to serve drinks or snacks, display candles and other decorative items, or even use it as a catch-all tray for your keys and other small items. With a little bit of creativity, you can turn an old window into a stylish and functional piece of home decor.

14. Hang A Wreath

One creative and easy project to do with old windows is to hang a wreath on them. By removing the glass panes and adding a wreath hanger or some hooks, you can transform an old window into a charming and unique wreath display.

The window frame can be painted or stained to match your home’s decor, and the wreath can be changed seasonally to keep things fresh and new. This project is a great way to add some character to your home’s exterior or interior, and it’s also an eco-friendly way to decorate your home.

Whether you prefer a simple and classic wreath or something more elaborate, using an old window frame as a backdrop can make your wreath display even more special.

15. Vintage Gallery Wall

One creative way to use old windows is to create a vintage gallery wall. You can mix and match different sizes and styles of old window frames, then hang them on the wall to create a unique and eclectic gallery display.

You can use the frames to showcase photos, and artwork, or even create a mini terrarium or shadow box. To give the gallery wall a cohesive look, consider painting or staining the frames in similar colors or tones. Another idea is to add a rustic touch by using twine or wire to attach small items such as old keys or small wooden signs to the frames.

A vintage gallery wall made from repurposed old windows not only adds a charming touch to your decor but also gives new life to something that might have been discarded.

16. Make A Key Holder

One creative idea is to turn an old window into a vintage key holder. By attaching hooks or knobs to the window frame, you can create a practical and charming way to store your keys. You can also add a coat of paint or distress the frame to give it a vintage or shabby chic look.

Another option is to add a small chalkboard or dry-erase board to the window pane, so you can leave messages or reminders for yourself or your family. This repurposing project not only adds a touch of character to your home, but also helps keep your keys organized and easy to find.

17. Display Typography Art

One creative project to consider is creating old window typography art. By using vinyl lettering or stenciling, you can add words or phrases that are meaningful to you, transforming an old window into a unique piece of wall art. The typography can be simple or elaborate, with fonts and colors that match your decor style.

You can also use the window panes as frames for photos or artwork, or even create a collage of images that inspire you. The beauty of old window typography art is that it’s easy to make and highly customizable, making it a great project for both novice and experienced DIYers.

Plus, it’s an eco-friendly way to repurpose something that might have otherwise ended up in a landfill. With some creativity and a little elbow grease, old windows can become one-of-a-kind works of art that add character and charm to any room in your home.