DIY Network

Outdoor Window Trim Frame your windows in fun. From "B. Original" episode DBOR-155

Let your window creativity show for the world to see.

Don't hide your creativity behind closed doors—let it shine out the windows.

Michele Beschen has the project to help do just that: A "window treatment" that's actually a whimsical frame that attaches on the outside of your home. The B. Original host shows how to create a fun border for the outside of your window.

The project specifications below are for a frame to go around a full-size window in a home. If you aren't ready to take the plunge on the outside of your home—or if your home doesn't lend itself to attaching a frame—you can adapt the same project to frame the inside of a window. It also works well, on a smaller scale, framing the windows on a treehouse or playhouse. Just B. Original and see where your inspiration takes you.

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	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C
	Figure D

Outdoor Window Trim

Materials:

1x6 pine lumber
1x8 pine lumber
jigsaw
measuring tape
paint

• Carefully measure the sides and top of your window. Cut two 1x6 boards the same length as the sides of the window. Cut a 1x8 board to the length of the top of the window plus the width of the two side boards.

• Arrange the boards on your work surface the same way that they will be mounted to the window. Draw a flowing line around the outside of your frame; you can do this freehand or use a pattern. This will create the shape of the frame that will go around the window.

• Clamp your board to your work surface and cut out your design with a jigsaw (figure A). Repeat with the other boards.

• Decorate your frame in any way you choose: Add color with paint or add texture with small times and beads (figure B).

• Protect your creation with two or three coats of exterior clear varnish or marine varnish.

• The way you attach the frame to your home depends on what type of exterior the home has. Michele Beschen was attaching to wood siding, so she used decking screws.

• Drill pilot holes all the way through the finished frame to prevent splitting when you attach it (figure C).

• Line up the top of one of the side pieces with the top of the window. Using the pilot holes, secure the frame with screws or whatever fastener is appropriate for your home’s exterior material (figure D).

• Repeat with the other side piece and top piece.