DIY Garden Window Mirror

by GraceAnn Simoni

Here’s a quick DIY idea, and a timely tip, from Contributor GraceAnn Simoni, Interior Redesign and Staging Specialist and Instructor from the Chicagoland area. GraceAnn shares budget tips and advice for decorating with your existing furniture and accessories.

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Enjoy your outdoor view…twice!

Add some sparkle and reflection to you space, with a DIY Garden Window Mirror.

The deck on my house has an overhang that always seems to be a dark corner even in the sunlight. I used an old window frame like this one, with individual window panes about 10″ x 8″, and an old mirror. I had someone cut the mirror panes to fit. (You could do this yourself with a glass cutter knife, gloves, and patience).

Then using Liquid Nails–caulking that is also adhesive (check in the bath remodeling section of the Home Depot)–I glued the pieces in place. I then hung it securely on the siding, creating a “faux” window.

The mirror reflects back onto the deck making it appear more spacious. The mirror also helps to bounce light and make that section beneath the overhang brighter. I then added a window box full of shade loving annuals and it made for a true focal point. Be careful to put your mirror in a shaded space; you do not want the sun reflecting into the mirror directly. Poor yourself a glass of ice tea and enjoy!

I made my garden window mirror a few years back, and have since given it to an appreciative friend. Here are some similar, ready-made ones, that UK readers can purchase and skip the DIY:

Here’s another quick project that will help with indoor sparkle. Now is the time to refresh your indoor silk plants.

Take you current silk plants to the great outdoors and give them a good cleaning.

Just add a couple drops of dish detergent in a (Miracle Grow) dispenser attached to the hose. With the plants lying on their side (too keep water from getting into the pots) hose them off with the solution then rinse thoroughly.

In about an hour of drying time you have fresh looking bright green silk plants.

GraceAnn Simoni of Yours Redesigned Naperville, IL, is a Redesign and Staging Specialist and Instructor, and a member of Interior Redesign Industry Specialists (I.R.I.S.).

If you need help getting the The Home You Want With the House You Have™ visit www.yoursredesigned.com.

Are you focusing on outdoor projects this month at
your home?

3 Comments for “DIY Garden Window Mirror”

I have been looking for an old window just like this for a few years now. I have painted a garden mural in my daughters room and really want a mirror like this over hwe dresser. Any clues as to where I can find a window like that one? I have tried the internet….Craig’s list, old house parts dealers etc. I’m frustrated.
Thank you,
Deb

Deb said | January 3rd, 2011 at 12:08 pm

Hmmm Deb,

I would try the nearest salvage yard, though it sounds like you may have already done that. Urban Ore in Berkeley, CA has a nice selection.

What large city do you live near?? I can get suggested outlets from my contacts you if I know your neck of the woods.

I know we’ll track something down -
-Kathy

Kathy said | January 5th, 2011 at 7:47 pm

I’d love to do something like this as well, but am also struggling finding window panes. Any suggestions for the Tampa, FL area?

Jessica said | January 25th, 2012 at 10:07 am