Old windows are loaded with character and charm. B. Original host Michele Beschen shows you how to bring that character indoors by converting old, wooden-frame windows into nesting tables. Recycle wooden windows from your own home-remodeling project, or ask friends and neighbors who are remodeling to see if they are taking out any old windows. Salvage yards and second-hand shops also can be good sources for vintage windows. Don't be put off by chipped paint or a few dents—they give the final piece more personality.
Materials:3 wooden windows (different sizes)
pre-made table legs (3 sets, different lengths)
installation hardware for table legs (You'll probably need both brackets and T nuts.)
3 pieces of plexiglass, at least 1/8" thick, cut ½" smaller than the outside of the windows
screws (shorter than the thickness of the window frames)
drill with bits to match table leg hardware and screws
hammer
caulk or glazing compound
contact cement (optional)
large, attractive leaves, bold colors of paint or other embellishments for inside the frame
Build Your Tables- Clean both sides of your first window and lay it down with the putty side up. Remove the putty and glass, and set the glass aside somewhere safe. The side that's facing up will be the top of your table.
- Remove any additional putty or glazing compound from the window frame. If you want to sand, paint or stain your window, do it now. Also, sand and finish your table legs if desired.
- Lay with window with the bottom side up and attach the leg hardware. For brackets, use the bracket as a template to mark where to drill your pilot holes for screws. Use a piece of tape to mark your drill bit so you don't drill too deep, then drill pilot holes and use screws to attach the brackets.
- If you're installing T nuts, use a drill bit the same diameter as the nut and mark the depth with a piece of tape (figure B). Drill the holes and insert the T nuts, tapping them into place with a hammer. Reinforce the connection with contact cement (figure C).
- Turn the window back over so the leg hardware faces down.
- With the protective plastic still attached, place your plexiglass on the window and clamp into place. Use tape to mark your drill bit and drill a hole through each corner of the plexiglass and into the window frame (figure D).
- Take the plexiglass off of the window. Fit the glass back into the window frame and secure with a thin bead of caulk or glazing compound.
- You can make your tables more dramatic by using them as shadow boxes or freestanding artwork. Michele sandwiched large leaves in one of her tables, and painted between the glass and plexiglass on another.
- Remove the protective plastic from the bottom side of the plexiglass and linen it up on the window frame. Peel up the plastic from the corners of the plexiglass and screw it to the window frame. Remove the entire plastic covering once the plexiglass is attached.
- Repeat the process with your other two windows.
Note: Vintage windows and plexiglass are stylish, but not strong enough to support a person's weight. Don't let family members or guests sit on these tables.
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