Wednesday, April 20, 2011

I Love Old Windows


I loved the window project that Lisa at Serendipity Chic Design did.  Her husband found some great old windows at the dump!  Soon after her post, I saw an ad for windows that had been taken out of a house from 1865.  I talked my husband in to driving 100 miles roundtrip to go pick some up.  Yes, in a snowstorm!!  No, we aren't the smartest people to do that--in a snowstorm when gas prices are going through the roof!  :)  But, we got a couple of very neat old windows.  I was also able to pick up a couple for a friend. 


I love the wavy old glass!





I hung one on the wall and attached a wreath to it.



I liked it, but felt like it was missing something.  So off to my favorite store, Home Depot.



I started with a new fence board that cost $1.87.



I bought Apple Cider Vinegar and some Steel Wool (I had no idea what 'grade' steel wool to get, so I got #0 and it worked great).  The vinegar was $1.12 and the steel wool was $3.98, although I only used two out of the 20 or so pieces in there, so I'd say it cost 40 cents.



I read that you're supposed to soak the steel wool in the vinegar overnight, but I am a very impatient person, so I put it right on...


And I didn't even get any splinters.  I did wear some little gloves because the apple cider vinegar smell was not appealing to me and I didn't want that smell on my hands.
I let it dry for a couple of hours, then it looked Instantly Old!! (If there are black dots all over it, just put another coat on)


We took the window off the wall and drilled holes in the board and window and attached the two pieces.




And now it's hung with a shelf.  I've been experimenting on what to put on the shelf and so far these items are working for me. 









I'm so happy with the finished product! 



Thanks so much for coming by! 

Pam



I am linking to the following parties:

Between Naps on the Porch's Met Monday
Funky Junk Interior's Saturday Night Special
Pink Postcard's Transformations and Treasures
No Minimalist Here's Open House Party
At The Picket Fence's Inspiration Friday
Stuff And Nonsense's Fridays Unfolded
French Country Cottage's Feathered Nest Friday
My Romantic Home's Show and Tell Friday
Chic on a Shoestring's Flaunt it Friday
Tatertots and Jello's Weekend Wrap Up Party
Under the Table and Dreaming's Sunday Showcase
The Tattered Tag's KISS party
Favorite Post of 2011 Link Party at Home Stories from A to Z 


A BIG Thank you to Denise at Pink Postcard for featuring my project on her blog!

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137 comments:

  1. JasminApril 20, 2011 at 8:58 AM

    That looks awesome Pam. Great job!!! :)

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  2. Amy K @ Chestnut Tree LaneApril 20, 2011 at 9:03 AM

    Steel wool and vinegar?! Who knew?

    That is fabulous. I also love the little bird... cute!

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  3. DenaApril 20, 2011 at 9:04 AM

    I absolutely LOVE this!!

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  4. Sherry@Back2VintageApril 20, 2011 at 9:05 AM

    I LOVE it! I've never heard about the steel wool/vinegar thing! Wow!!!

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  5. HeatherF1April 20, 2011 at 9:10 AM

    Looks great! I didn't know about the steel wool and vinegar thing, either. Thanks for sharing!

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  6. BrandiApril 20, 2011 at 9:27 AM

    Oh my Pam, that really turned out nice. I love it! You are so clever to use the apple cider vinegar and steel wool. I had no idea! I love, love, love, the shelf you created! Thank you so much for sharing your old window. Did I mention how much I LOVE it?!

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  7. AnonymousApril 20, 2011 at 9:43 AM

    I love old windows and wavy glass. You created a great looking shelf. Apple cider vinegar and steel wool...who knew? Thanks for sharing the idea. I can't wait to try this out. It looks great in your dining room!
    XO,
    ~M

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  8. UnknownApril 20, 2011 at 9:48 AM

    Wow!! Quite the project!! Love it! You are very talented Pam!!!

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  9. UnknownApril 20, 2011 at 10:05 AM

    Hi Pam!
    This is my first time visiting here. I LoVE old windows too. You did a fab job and I love that it has a shelf to put treasures on!
    Roselle

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  10. Karen thisoldhouse2.comApril 20, 2011 at 10:24 AM

    This is awesome! Great idea and it looks terrific in that spot on the wall.

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  11. The Olde Farmhouse on Windmill HillApril 20, 2011 at 11:29 AM

    I love it, Pam! The shelf you added is the perfect touch. I've been keeping my eye out for an old window (or two, or three...).

    I've never heard of the vinegar and steel wool trick - I'm loving how it instantly aged that board. And so inexpensive and easy... thanks for the tip!! ~Rachel

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  12. lcApril 20, 2011 at 11:56 AM

    Seriously?? Are you really this creative? Do I just not care about being creative and therefore spend waayyy to much at any store to decorate my house? I love it Pam and I would never use the word impatient to describe you (bahaha). <3

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  13. Yvonne@StyleBurbApril 20, 2011 at 12:47 PM

    I LOVE this project, Pam! The shelf is the perfect addition to the window. I don't blame you for wanting to drive a long distance (in bad weather) to get your window... it's gorgeous!

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  14. DebbiedoosApril 20, 2011 at 6:14 PM

    Great look Pam! I love it...great tip on the steel wool and vinegar, very good tip!

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  15. Sherry @ No Minimalist HereApril 20, 2011 at 6:16 PM

    Hi Pam, Thanks for the info on the vinegar and steel wool. This is something I will definitely try. Your window project is adorable and I like the added shelf. Thabnk you for joining my Open House party.
    Hugs,
    Sherry

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  16. Calypso In The CountryApril 20, 2011 at 7:04 PM

    Your project turned out great! Thanks for the tip on the steel wool and vinegar...the things we learn on blogs...Have a great day!
    Shelley

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  17. Alison @ The PolohouseApril 20, 2011 at 7:29 PM

    This is so great! I love old windows too and had no idea you can make new wood look old with vinegar!
    Such important information for us fellow bloggers. I swear i need to keep a blogging journal next to the computer for information like this.
    Thanks SO much for sharing!!!
    Alison

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  18. Ricki TreleavenApril 20, 2011 at 8:15 PM

    Pam, I think the window is much improved with the added shelf. I love wavy glass in old windows, too :D

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  19. SusanApril 20, 2011 at 8:17 PM

    It's really beautiful! Thanks for sharing the vinegar and steel wool trick, too!

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  20. Noble VintageApril 20, 2011 at 8:36 PM

    Oh wow! I love the aging recipe (for wood!) ha! I am going to be looking around now for a good piece to try that on!!! The shelf was a great addition to the window. Love it all. thanks so much for sharing this at Transformations and Treasures!

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  21. Randi~Dukes and DuchessesApril 20, 2011 at 8:56 PM

    That is just crazy ... I've never heard about steel wool and vinegar before! I can't believe it gave you that neat aged look. Thanks for the amazing tip!

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  22. Lauren @ My Wonderfully MadeApril 21, 2011 at 6:13 AM

    Well add me to the list of people who have never heard of this method for aging wood!! That is so great! And personally, I wouldn't change a thing -- love what you have on the shelf now!

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  23. Serendipity Chic DesignApril 21, 2011 at 6:22 AM

    The things we will do for a piece we really want! We even risk our lives. I have done the same thing...Crazy, I know....

    This came out so AWESOME! The added touch with the shelf was exactly what it needed. I too didn't know the trick with the vinegar and steel wool. Thanks so much for sharing that idea! Can't wait to try it out...

    Have a great day...
    Lisa

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  24. Allison ShopsApril 21, 2011 at 6:26 AM

    I've never heard of using apple vinegar to age new wood - neat! I love old windows too and have several in our home. Wavy glass is always a plus.

    Allison
    Atticmag

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  25. AnonymousApril 21, 2011 at 7:09 AM

    I LOVE old windows myself! That looks so pretty! And you know what? We're all nuts, lol!! I would have wanted to do the same thing, hee! hee!

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  26. DawnaApril 21, 2011 at 8:03 AM

    You did a great job! and you are right it was missing something...but not anymore!! Very cute!!

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  27. Jane @ Jane's Junk and TreasuresApril 21, 2011 at 11:00 AM

    Pam I didn't know that about apple vinegar!!
    Thanks for the tip!!

    I love your window!! Great job!!

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  28. Melissa MillerApril 21, 2011 at 11:32 AM

    Pam how neat they look in your home. You've sold me. I want some now. Lovely!

    Happy Easter to you and your family. ~Melissa

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  29. micheleApril 21, 2011 at 4:01 PM

    awesome find and DIY, Pam! thanks for this great idea which you make look so easy.

    thanks for visiting me!

    michele

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  30. OliveApril 21, 2011 at 4:29 PM

    Hi Pam, it is better with the shelf. We took 27 windows out of our 150 year old house...I have no idea where the windows went to. They were six feet tall. I hardly ever show that old house on my blog...its awful. ♥Olive

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  31. Something Nice and PrettyApril 21, 2011 at 5:33 PM

    Well, thank you so much for stopping by...great hubby you have and the skylight was a wonderful addition! Also love your old windows! I'm a follower now hope you will do the same!


    Rondell

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  32. A Vintage VineApril 21, 2011 at 6:01 PM

    Great job!!! Love the shelf you added!!!

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  33. Amanda LeeApril 21, 2011 at 6:19 PM

    Love the window project! Adding a shelf was a perfect idea!
    ~Amanda

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  34. Amy KinserApril 21, 2011 at 6:55 PM

    I am so with you on old windows. I have them and old screens in several places throughout my house. They are so fun and versatile to decorate with. I love yours!

    How did I not know that you could use apple cider vinegar to age wood? It looks awesome.

    Nice to visit with you. Amy

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  35. angieApril 21, 2011 at 7:22 PM

    i love old windows too and i ADORE what you did with this one! it looks great!!!
    thanks so much for stopping by and leaving a comment on my mud room storage ~ i really appreciate it! :)

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  36. Jane@Cottage at the CrossroadsApril 21, 2011 at 7:48 PM

    Love your old window. I'm looking for some myself. Thanks for telling us about the vinegar and steel wool. I had no idea.

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  37. Pam KesslerApril 21, 2011 at 8:41 PM

    I had never heard of the steel wool and vinegar trick before. Great tip. And your shelf/window is amazing. Very cute!

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  38. Screaming SardineApril 21, 2011 at 9:28 PM

    Wowzers, that's gorgeous. I love how rustic and elegant it looks. I really like the addition of the ledge; it totally makes it unique and so interesting to look at. I think I'd be looking at it quite frequently if it was in my home. :)

    You're more than welcome to link this up to my party: http://sunburntcowhandmadeshop.blogspot.com/2011/04/sunburnt-cow-link-party-6.html

    Cheers,
    Tracy All Thumbs Crafts

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  39. Blue Ridge Altered ArtApril 22, 2011 at 6:06 AM

    That turned out faboulous. ~~Sherry~~

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  40. Becca BertottiApril 22, 2011 at 6:15 AM

    Great job ... love how you layered the wreath !! I've been on the hunt for one, myself. :) Happy Easter. *Becca*


    www.adventuresindecorating1.blogspot.com

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  41. Dee ⚜️⚜️⚜️⚜️⚜️April 22, 2011 at 8:11 AM

    Great project! I love how you decorated it.

    Who knew you could age a piece of wood like that!

    Dee

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  42. At The Picket FenceApril 22, 2011 at 10:52 AM

    That is just wonderful Pam! You did such a great job and I think adding that shelf was perfect. It adds so much character to your lovely room and we so appreciate you sharing it with us at Inspiration Friday this week! :-)
    Vanessa

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    Replies
    1. vivi.saraceni23September 29, 2013 at 12:14 PM

      Realmente tienes razón, es muy buena idea y hasta ahora no había podido saber cómo se hacía el envejecimiento de la madera.Ya estoy haciendo una prueba, pero con vinagre de alcohol.Me gustaría poder envejecer 3 banquetas de desayunador y listones de madera para hacer marcos de cuadros estilo campoMuchas gracias por compartir tu experiencia.Viviana

      Delete
  43. Kristin @ My Uncommon Slice of SuburbiaApril 22, 2011 at 11:08 AM

    I would drive 100 miles in a snowstorm for those :)
    I love it, been keeping my eye out for one as well!
    Your's is so pretty!
    XOXO
    Kristin

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  44. AnonymousApril 22, 2011 at 12:44 PM

    Hi - visiting from My Romantic Home. I LOVE this idea! I like old windows as well. I just used one on my mantel makeover! http://junkernewbie.blogspot.com/2011/04/mantel-makeovers.html

    BTW- I'm doing my first giveaway, check it out :-)

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  45. Carrie @ Dittle DattleApril 22, 2011 at 4:31 PM

    Wow! Pam, this is a new trick on me... steel wool and apple cider vinegar! Thanks for sharing. I'm going to have to try this out for myself!

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  46. Erin @ Carolina Country LivingApril 22, 2011 at 4:40 PM

    Hi Pam,

    I'm visiting from Feathered Nest Friday and am completely floored by how you aged that piece of wood! When you were talking about steel wool and ACV, I was thinking to myself, "What in the *world* is she doing??" Joke's on me because it looks like amazing, weathered barn wood. And what a perfect compliment to that lovely old window! I'm going to look for a piece of wood to try this on pronto!

    Thanks for the inspiration,
    Erin

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  47. The French HutchApril 22, 2011 at 6:56 PM

    Pam, this is a great idea, and you did a super job. The window looks good with the wreath, but when you added the little shelf it turned into fabulous! The way you weathered the board, its like its hundred of years old. That was one smart /great project. Thanks for posting......
    Easter Blessings

    ~Emily
    The French Huth

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  48. Courtney ~ French Country CottageApril 22, 2011 at 7:52 PM

    This is great- love how it came out! Thanks for sharing at FNF! :)

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  49. KarenApril 22, 2011 at 11:18 PM

    Love this and that is a great tip. I'm sure I'll be trying that in the future.

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  50. Funky Junk InteriorsApril 23, 2011 at 1:08 AM

    Steel wool and apple cider vinegar to get BARN WOOD? Way cool! Your window project is adorable!

    Donna

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  51. DawnApril 23, 2011 at 7:40 AM

    I love it! Dontcha just love old windows????

    Great tip on the vinegar and steel wool!

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  52. SueApril 23, 2011 at 8:35 AM

    Cute idea to add a shelf and make this window functional. And what an interesting way to "stain" the wood! Visiting from the Picket Fence. ~ Sue

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  53. Life Of A Southern Couple - BrittanyApril 23, 2011 at 8:43 PM

    I love old windows! Yours turned out great! :)

    http://lifeofasoutherncouple.blogspot.com/

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  54. Eileen @ Cottage Beach HouseApril 23, 2011 at 9:11 PM

    Hi Pam, I love it. About 7 years ago, I found an old window on the street, added a board for a shelf (much like yours) and mirrors because the glass was broken. I painted the board a distressed look to match the already distressed old window. it is still one of my favorite piece to this day. Thanks for the cider vinegar trick I had never heard of that. Your looks awesome.

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  55. TonyaApril 23, 2011 at 10:00 PM

    How very cozy your home is!!! I love what you did with that window, and I want to come steal the wreath!! Did you make that, too!! It looks just PERFECT...
    and oh, the things we can get our men to do for us. :)

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  56. GratefulPrayerThankfulHeartApril 24, 2011 at 4:58 AM

    Great job! Love the look!

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  57. UnknownApril 24, 2011 at 6:15 PM

    Hi Pam,
    What a great project! I just found your blog from Funky Junk Interiors SNS and am so glad I did. I love the trick about using vinegar and steel wool to age wood...I'll use that one. Really like how your your window shelf came out...it looks great. Love your blog and just became your newest Follower.
    Happy Easter!
    Cheryl at My Sister's Cottage

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  58. K&B by the SeaApril 24, 2011 at 7:34 PM

    I had no idea you could age wood with steel wool and vinegar! The addition of the shelf to the window is perfect - now you can dress up the window with pretty vignettes :-)

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  59. ShirleyApril 24, 2011 at 7:47 PM

    I love it! Great job, I also like to decorate old windows, I have decided a person can do almost anything with them.
    thank you for posting!

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  60. Raggedy KingdomApril 25, 2011 at 4:58 AM

    I love your window. Wonderful. Im your neighbor this week on BNOTP, Met Monday. Stop and take a look Sheila @ Raggedykingdom.blogspot.com

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  61. Bluebirds and RosesApril 25, 2011 at 8:50 AM

    Great idea ..beautiful transformation and project.
    Thank you for sharing.

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  62. UnknownApril 25, 2011 at 1:32 PM

    Hi Pam~

    Your lovely old window turned out great! And it looks wonderful in your dinning area. Would love for you to link to my blog bash K.I.S.S. :)

    Drop By The Tattered Tag

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  63. TeresaApril 25, 2011 at 2:25 PM

    Okay, now I'm obsessed with the process! So, you just rub the vinegar on with the steel wool? We have a new dock and it's a bit too bright and shiny for me at the moment. I'd love to weather it a bit. (I wonder what my hubby will think of that:) Do you "sand" it with the steel wool? You've got me interested!

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  64. KellyApril 25, 2011 at 2:53 PM

    Wow....this looks so fantastic! I also love the little birds. I am definitely going to have to bookmark this post for the future.

    I'm following you! :)


    Kelly

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  65. DebApril 25, 2011 at 7:52 PM

    I love the idea of adding the shelf! I have a few old windows I confiscated from a buiding we tore down and I have been trying to figure out how to us them. Thanks for the idea!

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  66. primitive ole frugal mummaApril 25, 2011 at 9:35 PM

    Oh i love that old window and what you have done with it , and who would of thought Apple cider vinergar and steel wool very clever indeed!!
    have a great week , oh i am a new follower .. feel welcome to pop on over for a visit at primitive ole frugal mumma ..
    Heidi :-)

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  67. Angie HoldenApril 26, 2011 at 7:11 PM

    WOW WOW WOW! I had no idea you could make wood look old like that! Thanks for the tip!!

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  68. AnonymousApril 27, 2011 at 1:30 AM

    You gotta love old windows! your is really awesome!

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  69. UnknownMay 1, 2011 at 10:47 PM

    Hi Pam~

    Thanks for linking to my K.I.S.S. blog bash last week, looking forward to seeing what you share this week.

    Drop By The Tattered Tag

    ReplyDelete
  70. AliceMay 2, 2011 at 10:34 PM

    I absolutely LOVE the look of the aged wood. But, I need help! I actually tried this today on a wooden crate, and it ended up getting all little moldy-looking spots! any suggestions?
    I used the pure apple cider vinegar (very foul smelling!:)) and grade #1 steel wool. I just brushed the vinegar on. Was I supposed to scrub it quite hard with the steel wool? Not sure what I did wrong, but it definitely didn't turn out as pretty as yours!
    Great job!

    ReplyDelete
  71. Pam @ Our Adventures in Home ImprovementMay 3, 2011 at 7:28 AM

    Thanks for all of the nice comments!

    In response to Alice's question above, I used a new fence board and just rubbed the apple cider vinegar in with the steel wool. I didn't have any problems with blochy or moldy areas. My suggestion would be to sand the blochy areas and then reapply it. There must be something on there that is reacting to the steel wool and vinegar.

    Alice, I couldn't get in touch with you via email, so I hope you get the response this way.

    Pam

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  72. AliceMay 5, 2011 at 10:49 AM

    thanks Pam!
    will give that a try :)

    Alice

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  73. Rosie GoinsMay 19, 2011 at 4:54 AM

    I am so glad you stopped by my blog and commented. It was YOUR post that I saw about the window and got inspired.

    I am a new follower.

    ReplyDelete
  74. Theresa CarlileOctober 7, 2011 at 3:07 PM

    I found your aged wood picture on Pintrest and I'm trying it as we speak. I'm watching the "vinegar" dry : ) can't wait to see how it looks. Thanks!!

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  75. AnonymousOctober 9, 2011 at 9:49 PM

    So cute! I love old windows, also. I just did a project with one and I have a matching one that is missing the glass, and it has a peice of trim wood attached, that looks just like yours with the shelf, I couldn't decide wether to leave the "shelf" or not, well now I'm sure I'll leave it. Thanks for the inspiration. I'm your newest follower. Come visit and see my first window.

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  76. tx windshieldsOctober 11, 2011 at 10:00 PM

    Wow! This is fantastic!

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  77. MeganOctober 17, 2011 at 9:19 PM

    just thought I would comment here: the process is the steel reacting with the vinegar; my mom aged an addition to our barn using 5 gallons of white vinegar (less smelly) and a bunch of rusty iron she left soaking in the vinegar overnite. then she used one of those pump style sprayers to simple spray the vinegar on all the wood. You cannot even tell until you get right up to the wood (It looks newer only because it's not shrunken and happy like the old portion)

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  78. MeganOctober 17, 2011 at 9:20 PM

    i meant to say shrunken and 'gappy'

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  79. CindyOctober 18, 2011 at 11:48 AM

    This comment has been removed by a blog administrator.

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  80. UnknownNovember 16, 2011 at 6:23 PM

    Wow, I need to try this aging technique out. Love the old window with the new shelf- it looks great!

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  81. Yaya, Cindy and TaraNovember 21, 2011 at 7:27 AM

    Thanks for the tip in aging wood. My daughter-in-law loves furniture from old wood pallets. This process might allow us to make some pallets of our own! Can't wait to tell her about your tip!

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  82. LesleyDecember 1, 2011 at 10:42 PM

    This is brilliant! I am going to try this ASAP!

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  83. Lucydesignsart.comDecember 5, 2011 at 7:40 AM

    wow! thanks, will have to try this

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  84. AnonymousDecember 13, 2011 at 12:12 PM

    Great idea!! Can't wait to try it out!! Thanks for sharing

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  85. Primitive EchoesDecember 21, 2011 at 6:11 PM

    This is just too weird, I found your blog just recently and now I am seeing it everywhere. I was on pinterest and found the picture of old wood and followed it home to you.
    Thanks for sharing. Now back to pinterest.
    Kat

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  86. AlimaJanuary 5, 2012 at 1:51 PM

    Love this idea, but I have tried it 3 times on a piece of wood and it doesn't do anything. What could I be doing wrong?? I've tried different varities of steel wool and letting the steel wool soak for hours first. My wood still looks brand new. :( HELP!

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  87. JenniJanuary 8, 2012 at 1:47 PM

    What am I doing wrong. The steel wool is not dissolving, no color change at all. Was really looking forward to it too.....

    ReplyDelete
  88. Pam@OurAdventuresInHomeImprovementJanuary 8, 2012 at 1:50 PM

    Jenny, please email me with an address so I can email you back and try to figure out what's wrong with it!

    Thanks,
    Pam

    ReplyDelete
  89. UnknownJanuary 10, 2012 at 5:50 PM

    Beautiful! How long did the smell stick around?

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  90. naomiJanuary 24, 2012 at 12:54 PM

    This is awesomeness. I can't wait to try it.

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  91. CanadianmomJanuary 31, 2012 at 12:09 PM

    Hello, I am new to your blog, and now I am happily following you.

    Thank you so much for the great idea. We have been trying to fix up our old house for three years now and still have a ways to go.

    Take care!
    Jen

    ReplyDelete
  92. AnonymousJanuary 31, 2012 at 1:52 PM

    What did you use to hang the window with??

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  93. Kentucky girlFebruary 6, 2012 at 6:47 AM

    This sounds very easy and inexpensive, definetly worth a try.

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  94. ReneeMarch 4, 2012 at 6:23 PM

    I am a professional faux finisher and I had no idea of this tip...You did an awesome job and will file this tidbit of info on the back burner. Although I am not doing faux at the time.
    Great blog

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  95. AnonymousMarch 21, 2012 at 10:03 AM

    do you know if you can paint over the aged wood then? (trying to achieve a certain effect)...

    ReplyDelete
    Replies
    1. Pam@OurAdventuresInHomeImprovementMarch 21, 2012 at 6:35 PM

      When I tried it on another board, it didn't take the paint very well after using the apple cider vinegar.
      Thanks for your question.
      Pam

      Delete
  96. Roxanne ReinhartMarch 21, 2012 at 1:20 PM

    I love it!! The shelf makes it perfect.

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  97. Mrs. DashApril 15, 2012 at 12:52 PM

    will it be as effective if you use an SOS pad? Does the type of wood make a difference? Or is it just as long as it isn't treated? Looking forward to trying this!

    ReplyDelete
  98. DianeMay 10, 2012 at 3:22 PM

    I love old windows.....husband....not so much! I bought one from an old country school house that my cousin had actually taught at about 50 years ago. My plan was to put it on the mantle in our new, sort of rustic, house, but husband just could not deal with it so I gave it to my daughter-in-law. Sorry now I did that, so I'm on the hunt again!

    ReplyDelete
  99. Home ImprovementMay 26, 2012 at 11:33 PM

    Wow. I love your creativity!Very fantastic. I love you mix and match the design and the result is very satisfactory. Your effort are getting paid of. That's the spirit when you want to make the most of it. Have you improve your bathroom yet? If not so, I would suggest to upgrade them one of these days. Good luck! :)

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  100. Stacy FacklerJune 18, 2012 at 9:19 AM

    I wonder if this works on wood that already has paint on it?

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  101. UnknownJune 20, 2012 at 11:28 PM

    looking amazing..very nice blog,The information you are providing is good .We provide best Home Remodeling solutions

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  102. AngelaJune 23, 2012 at 8:17 PM

    Pam! This is such a great idea! I love seeing your projects. :)
    ~Angela

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  103. AnonymousJune 27, 2012 at 9:27 PM

    I so don't get the affinity for old windows, but the steel wool idea sounds pretty awesome! I might have to give it a try on something else. Thanks for sharing!

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  104. Barbara JeanJuly 4, 2012 at 5:41 PM

    That looks great!!will have to try that wood aging technique.

    blessings and thanks for the link

    barb

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  105. Gayle@ Blue Ridge GA Real EstateJuly 17, 2012 at 6:46 PM

    Looks great with the shelf. That tip will REALLY help me. Thanks for sharing!

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  106. jack smithJuly 18, 2012 at 3:24 AM

    I'm doing this with one of my old farm house windows.
    Home painting

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  107. AnonymousJuly 19, 2012 at 6:20 AM

    I love old windows too and your use of this one is fantastic. The only caution I would exercise is that the paint in most old windows (anything pre 1979) has lead which can be harmful if the dust or particulates are inhaled or ingested and it builds up over time.
    I would get some mat polyurethane and seal the paint to the frame with several coats and also to seal the wood on the entire frame. Then, after it has dried completely wipe down with TSP (common ingredient in powdered dishwasher soap - mix some with water and wipe away). Now you have a great piece and no health risks to worry about.

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  108. Kathy_in_IndianaJuly 31, 2012 at 11:51 AM

    I just found your blog today and I wish I had more time to sit and look at it all! What a fun blog you have. You are so creative and talented! I cannot wait to come back tomorrow and see what else you have shared - I found you on Pinterest

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  109. MartynosiaOctober 17, 2012 at 10:53 AM

    Wow, this is amazing! I must try it as I have some nice white wood and I want it to look old ;)
    Thanks!

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  110. Christine@EveningsFall.comNovember 27, 2012 at 2:44 PM

    Very cool!
    I happen to collect old French doors! :)
    Your method is to ebonize wood. Notice how dark?
    If you vary the strength of the vinegar mixture, i.e. how long the steel wool has dissolved, you can "stripe" or drip it on and create different shades of the gray.

    You can also (carefully) use drain cleaner or a spray or paste of baking soda and water.

    These work on wood that has a lot of tannin in it. Pine, cedar, etc. You can soak wood in tea and the leftover tannins will react better and more quickly.

    Anyway, fun. I might look at the windows at my reuse center. They're much smaller than French doors!

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  111. MyInteriorDecorator.comNovember 28, 2012 at 10:04 AM

    I am actually about to buy a house, either one that doesn't need anything but some "touches" here and there or one that needs a complete rehab. I am going to do this because I like wood to look old and finding it is sometimes very hard.

    I did purchase old windows years ago in Idaho to use over a desk and loved them. I decorate them for Halloween, fall and Christmas but I never thought to add a wreath or other things to them. I did have window boxes to put under them but never got around to doing what I wanted on the window boxes. Thank you for the great ideas!

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  112. AnonymousDecember 3, 2012 at 11:37 AM

    Hi Pam, thanks for the tip! Was the wood untreated? I'm wondering if I could use this trick on my fireplace but it has a stain and gloss finish already. Thoughts?

    Thanks!

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  113. AnonymousDecember 7, 2012 at 2:17 PM

    was the wood pine or treasted?

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  114. Home Improvement TennesseeJanuary 16, 2013 at 4:10 AM

    I really don't like old windows but the way you represented the old windows I am loving it :)

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  115. UnknownJanuary 17, 2013 at 10:51 AM

    I love old windows too and your use of this one is fantastic. The only caution I would exercise is that the paint in most old windows (anything pre 1979) has lead which can be harmful if the dust or particulates are inhaled or ingested and it builds up over time. windows ottawa

    ReplyDelete
  116. Louise SuttonFebruary 1, 2013 at 1:34 AM

    Old windows definitely give a lot of character to a home. But due to its old age, most of it may already broken down. Having them double glazed is a sure way to keep your home against the cold. Visit our website and get to know more about double glazing.

    ReplyDelete
  117. AnonymousFebruary 13, 2013 at 3:01 PM

    Pam,

    Did you sand the wood before applying the steet wool with apple cider to age the wood?

    Bonnie - Bonnieatca@aol.com

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  118. UnknownFebruary 15, 2013 at 9:07 AM

    Like many other people, I love the vintage look and am always looking for cute pieces for my room. I would have never even guessed to use this. Such a great tip. I was curious though, do you need to sand the furniture if there is already a varnish on it? I don't know if this will change the final product. Either way, love this and I definitely will be trying it in the near future.

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    Replies
    1. Pam@OurAdventuresInHomeImprovementFebruary 15, 2013 at 3:27 PM

      Hi Ashley. I used new fence boards for this and added the steel wool and apple cider vinegar magic. If I were trying it on a previously painted or stained board, yes, I would probably sand it first. That said, this process seems to work best when the wood is rough.

      Good luck and keep me posted if you try it!
      Pam

      Delete
  119. UnknownMarch 22, 2013 at 12:11 PM

    These look so great! My house has antique windows (we had to get them replaced with landmark windows, which are great and actually keep the heat in) and we saved them. I might have to borrow your idea for this project!

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  120. Country EssenceApril 14, 2013 at 1:52 PM

    Awesome...can't wait to give this a try!

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  121. UnknownMay 5, 2013 at 11:53 AM

    Hi Pam.

    I am trying this on some picture frames my father made for me, did you paint the solution on our rub the steel wool on the board? Great job on the window shelf.

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  122. UnknownMay 5, 2013 at 11:55 AM

    Pam,
    Great job on the picture shelf.
    Did you paint the solution on or use the steel wool to rub it on? I'm getting ready to try this on several pieces my father made for my craft booth. Thank you in advance for your reply.

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  123. UnknownMay 15, 2013 at 7:01 AM

    This is brilliant! I am going to try this ASAP! Painters

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  124. UnknownMay 15, 2013 at 7:02 AM

    Wow. I love your creativity!Very fantastic. I love you mix and match the design and the result is very satisfactory. Your effort are getting paid of. That's the spirit when you want to make the most of it. Have you improve your bathroom yet? If not so, I would suggest to upgrade them one of these days. Good luck! :) Painters

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  125. UnknownOctober 4, 2013 at 12:44 AM

    Wow.. what an idea! You have made use of old window to a decor piece in an impressive way. Looking forward for more ideas from you.
    4 Point Brevard

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  126. Steph NJanuary 5, 2014 at 9:18 AM

    I love this idea. I did the same thing with some old windows recently and spray painted them red to match my shutters, they looked great.

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  127. AnonymousMarch 10, 2014 at 8:47 AM

    I'm so glad to have found this via Pinterest. I'd like to feature this w/ one of your images in a blog post I'm writing for Friday on how to use old windows. I'll provide a link to your blog/this post, so you'll get credit & traffic hopefully! I'm asking my readers to pin from you, too. Please let me know if this is a problem & I won't use it. Thank you - Dawn @ We Call It Junkin.com

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  128. DebraMarch 24, 2014 at 5:06 PM

    It is wonderful! I am trying this!

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  129. UnknownMay 19, 2014 at 9:03 AM

    My grandma has a bunch of wood windows in her home. Since it was built so long ago, I'm assuming that wooden windows were the only type that they used back then. I would love to incorporate wooden windows into my home like you did. http://www.ahc-inc.net/windowmatrix.htm#platinum

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  130. HomeImprovementQuoteSeptember 4, 2014 at 5:39 AM

    Great post you have shared with us. I am looking for your more updates. Keep them coming in future too.

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  131. UnknownNovember 3, 2014 at 8:03 AM

    Do you think this would work on painted wood as well?

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    Replies
    1. Pam@OurAdventuresInHomeImprovementNovember 8, 2014 at 1:34 PM

      Hi Nina, I've tried it on painted wood and have not had good luck. The apple cider vinegar needs to soak into the wood and the paint keeps it from doing that.

      Delete
  132. IslaDecember 25, 2014 at 11:42 AM

    Oh lordy I love this! Can you do this to bamboo?

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  133. UnknownMay 20, 2015 at 9:22 AM

    I'm in love with this idea. Any time I find a sign or frame that has this aged look, it's way over the price I'm willing to pay. Not to mention I can make it whatever color I want! I'll be adding this to my list of home decor ideas that I've been meaning to get around to, thanks for sharing.
    www.royalstamp.ca

    ReplyDelete

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