Decorative Window Frame to Build

An Awesome Wall Frame with a Vintage Look

When I saw this plan by Amy from Her Tool Belt on the Remodelaholic site, I was in love!  I frequently stalk other blogs and always find something I want to make, build, or do. This decorative window frame is easy to build and I made one modification by adding narrow trim around the front.

The plans can be found at the Remodelaholic site and include the material list, cut list, and all of the instructions to build the frame. I made the frame using scrap wood. The plans call for ripping narrow strips (1/4″ and 1/2″) of a 2×4 or 1×3 to use as the stops and dividers. If you are not comfortable ripping narrow pieces on a table saw, craft boards (carried by most major home improvement retailers) come in 1/2″ and 1/4″ thicknesses and can be easily substituted in this plan.

When I cut the horizontal pieces for the dividers, I cut them too short (the story of my life!). This left a small gap where the horizontal dividers meet the vertical dividers.

Since I really wasn’t too interested in filling the gaps with wood filler or Dry-Dex, I used narrow trim to cover the dividers and also used it around the opening on the outer frame. I mitered the corners on the outer trim and just used regular straight cuts for the pieces on the dividers.

I really wanted to give this frame an old, paint layered look. As I was painting, I didn’t bother to wipe off any drips or thick spots, which I think adds to the vintage charm.

Instead of adding a handle to the lower part of the frame, I drilled three holes for knobs in a coral color – my new favorite!

I cut pieces of Plexiglas (<– affiliate link!) for the openings and used pieces from an old Marilyn Monroe calendar I’ve been hoarding (for several years!) in the openings. I added corrugated board to the back side of the calendar sheets, and used picture framing tabs to hold everything in place.

This decorative window frame to build is so easy and you can truly make it your own by adding trim (like I did) or by adding special photos in each pane.

I’m looking forward to building another – this time, the horizontal dividers will be long enough!