Ever seen an old window and thought, “Could I make that beautiful?” The answer is YES! Today, I’m transforming a thrifted window into a stunning vintage-style mirror using Dixie Belle Paint, IOD Paint Inlays, and Rustoleum Mirror Effect Spray. This DIY upcycle project is beginner-friendly and perfect for adding farmhouse, shabby chic, or French country charm to your home décor. Let’s get started! ✨
What You’ll Need:
- Thrifted vintage window (any size will do!)
- Dixie Belle Voodoo Gel Stain (in “Up in Smoke” or “Natural”)
- Dixie Belle Clear Coat (flat finish)
- IOD Lattice Rose Paint Inlay
- Dixie Belle French Linen Chalk Paint
- Rustoleum Mirror Effect Spray
- Dixie Belle Caviar Chalk Paint
- IOD Painterly Florals Transfers
- Contractor’s Paper (for finishing the back)
- D-hooks & 17-gauge wire (for hanging)
- A lint-free cloth, hot glue gun, and a misting bottle
Step 1: Prep & Stain the Frame
The wood on this thrift store window had a beautiful tone but needed a little refresh. I applied Dixie Belle Voodoo Gel Stain in “Natural”, using a dry microfiber cloth. This water-based stain has no odor, dries super quickly, and doesn’t require a top coat. After letting it dry, I used a baby wipe to clean off any excess stain from the glass.
Step 2: Add IOD Lattice Rose Paint Inlay for a Custom Look
I turned the window over and began cutting IOD Lattice Rose Paint Inlay into L-shapes to frame the glass panes. To create an authentic vintage look, I cut a wavy pattern along the inner edge of each piece.
Instead of using paint, I applied the inlays with Dixie Belle Clear Coat in Flat Finish. I brushed the top coat onto the glass, placed the paint inlay paint-side down, and smoothed it out with my hand. After misting it with water, I gently dabbed up excess moisture with a paper towel. Once all the inlays were applied, I let them dry before removing them.
Step 3: Remove the IOD Paint Inlays & Distress the Paint
Once the IOD Paint Inlays were dry, I misted them again and peeled them off to reveal a gorgeous hand-painted vintage floral design! To soften the look, I lightly dabbed over the inlays with Dixie Belle French Linen Chalk Paint using a dry paper towel.
Step 4: Create the Antique Mirror Effect
To create the aged mirror effect, I misted the unpainted glass sections with a 50/50 mix of vinegar and water, then sprayed over it with Rustoleum Mirror Effect Spray. After letting it set, I dabbed up the vinegar/water droplets with a paper towel to reveal a beautifully distressed antique mirror finish.
To ensure no light shined through, I painted the back of the window panes with Dixie Belle Caviar Chalk Paint, applying two coats.
Step 5: Add IOD Painterly Florals Transfers for Extra Charm
For extra French country farmhouse charm, I applied IOD Painterly Florals Transfers to the front of the window. I cut out vintage rose blooms, stems, and leaves, arranging them until I loved the look. Transfers are easy to apply—just lay them down, rub with the transfer tool, and carefully peel back the vellum. I burnished them lightly with my hand to ensure a seamless finish.
Step 6: Finish the Back & Add Hanging Hardware
To give the back a polished, professional look, I attached contractor’s paper with hot glue, then trimmed and sanded the edges for a smooth finish.
For the hanging system, I measured 4.5 inches down on both sides, screwed in D-hooks, and strung 17-gauge wire through them, wrapping and crimping it securely.
Final Thoughts: A Stunning DIY Vintage Mirror on a Budget!
There’s so much potential in old thrift store windows! With a little DIY creativity, you can turn them into gorgeous vintage-inspired mirrors that add French country, farmhouse, or shabby chic style to your home.
Have you ever tried an upcycled thrift store project like this? Let me know in the comments!
Want to try this for yourself? You can find all the paints, stains, inlays, and transfers on my website, The Vintage Hen & Chick, or visit my booth in Alexandria, MN if you’re local!
Happy upcycling and thrifting!
Watch the full step-by-step video tutorial here:
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