Decorative DIY Projects

DIY Projects

Most homes could easily be given a “chocolate box” look by adding shutters to the windows. Pair this with a lush, colourful garden and you’ve got yourself a picture-perfect English cottage look. Of course, shutters might look out of place on a modern, contemporary home with large windows, so consider the style of your home and window size first. Today, we will show you how to make your own shutters.

You will need:

  • Six 120mm wide planks per window. The length will depend on your window
  • Four 360mm x 120mm planks (length = width of 3 planks)
  • Acrylic paint (primer and top coat)
  • Wood glue

What to do:

  1. Start by measuring out the length of your windows, as this will determine the length of your planks.
  2. In this tutorial we are using 3 vertical planks on either side, but you may use more if you wish. Remember to account for this in the length of your 4 additional, horizontal planks.
  3. Lay your vertical planks out in 2 groups of 3. Measure about 120mm in on either side and use wood glue to secure your horizontal planks in place.
  4. For added security, you may use wood screws. Drill 3 pilot holes through your horizontal planks (1 for each vertical plank) and then screw them in place.
  5. Once the wood glue is dry and you’re satisfied that your shutters are secure, give them a quick sanding and then wipe them down with a damp rag to prepare for painting.
  6. Once clean and dry, paint a coat of acrylic primer to set your shutters up for painting topcoats.
  7. Once your primer is dry, give it a light sanding before continuing. Remember to wipe it down after sanding.
  8. Now you can apply your topcoat in the colour of your choice. 2 coats should be sufficient. Once your first coat is dry, give it a light sanding again and rub your shutters down before adding your next coat.
  9. To attach your shutters, drill 4 pilot holes through each shutter. One in each corner. Next, place your shutters in their desired location and mark your holes on the wall.
  10. Depending on the material of your wall, select the appropriate drill bit and drill. Insert a plastic wall plug firmly in each hole.
  11. Screw your shutters in place with the horizontal planks in front and there you go – a beautiful feature to give your home an added dose of charm!