Window treatments may not be the first thing you notice when you enter someone’s home, or even the second thing you notice, but this small decor detail can make a big difference. Not only do treatments spruce up the appearance of your windows, but they can reduce energy loss and lower subsequent bills, as approximately 30% of a home’s heating energy is lost through windows. Here are two options for window treatments that also work to add some fun to your kitchen.
Farmhouse Kitchen Window Shutters
Many homeowners spend thousands of dollars on kitchen renovations, with homeowners in San Francisco topping the list of U.S. metropolitan cities at an average of nearly $70,000 for a large kitchen, but you can seriously save in a remodel when you take on some DIY projects. This one for kitchen window shutters would work perfectly with a kitchen remodeled in a rustic or country style to add another touch of homey comfort.
- Cut the wood to size. You’ll start with eight 1x4s and four 1x3s, but they’ll each need to be cut to fit your window. The 1x4s will run vertically and the 1x3s will run horizontally.
- Sand the wood. Next, sand the wood lightly with sandpaper to smooth the edges of the cut wood. Make sure to sand in the direction of the wood grain and around the edges of the pieces to get the smoothest finish possible.
- Attach the pieces. Lay four of the vertical pieces (the 1x4s) next to each other. Place a horizontal piece (the 1×3) over the vertical pieces, about two to three inches from the bottom, and another equidistant from the top. Attach these horizontal braces by drilling one screw through each of the vertical pieces. Repeat for the other side of the shutters.
- Fill holes and paint. With wood filler and a putty knife, fill in the holes you drilled. Let them dry, then sand smooth any extra buildup. Now, you can paint or stain your shutters however you wish.
- Attach hardware and hang. Each shutter will need two hinges and one handle. Attach your chosen hardware and then use a measuring tape and pencil to mark the window frame with your desired shutter placement. First, drill pilot holes and then use a power drill to drive screws through the holes of the hinges and into the marked window frame.
Belted Shades
This window treatment requires less handling of hardware and power tools while making use of accessories you no longer use. These can also be used in other parts of the home to protect carpets and home furnishings from the fading effects of sunlight, a concern that over 52% of respondents to an International Window Film Association survey have.
Simply take a large swatch of your desired fabric that fits the window you’re treating and hem the edges. With a staple gun, attach a one-inch square dowel to one end, making it the top of the shade. Staple the non-buckled end of a leather belt to the square dowel, about five inches in from the edge. Turn the shade over and attach a large gold tack five inches from the same edge. This side will face out. Repeat both steps on the other edge. Hang the dowel at the top of the window sill and loop the belts around from the back so that the buckles hang on the tacks.
Either of these DIY treatments will give your kitchen windows a unique look that you can be proud to call your own. Grab some wood and paint or fabric and belts, and get to work today!
