How to Use Old Shutters
Old discarded shutters have character and deserve a second life, whether they've just been removed from a house or turn up at flea markets and antique malls. There are many creative ways to recycle old shutters, from building shelves and tables to installing shutters as cabinet doors. For instance, combine tall shutters for a room divider that adds interest or privacy to any area. The same basic approach can be adapted for other projects. Does this Spark an idea?
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Things You'll Need
- Four shutters, 5-6 feet tall
- 9 medium-sized hinges with screws
- Electric screw driver
- Wire brush
- Paint
- Paint brush
Instructions
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Start with four old shutters that are around five or six feet tall (make sure they're all the same height if you want a clean, even line across the top of the divider). Scrub each one thoroughly with a wire brush to remove all dirt and debris. If shutters are really coated with dirt, wash them first, then brush them. Let them dry completely.
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Space three hinges evenly along the right edge of one shutter. Position one hinge 6 inches from the top, one at the halfway point and one 6 inches from the bottom. Attach each hinge to this first shutter with screws and an electric screw driver.
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Line up the left edge of the second shutter with the right side of the first shutter, making sure the hinges are positioned correctly on the second shutter. The bottoms of the shutters should align so the finished divider will stand evenly. Screw the right half of each hinge to the second shutter.
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Align the next set of three hinges to the right edge of the second shutter and attach, but this time turn all three hinges over so the hinges fold in the opposite direction of the first set. This makes the divider fold like an accordion and stand up correctly. Line up the left edge of the third shutter, check the positioning of the hinges and screw them into place.
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Align and attach the third set of three hinges to the right edge of the third shutter, turning the hinges over once again so the folding action matches the first set of hinges. Once the hinges are attached, line up the left edge of the fourth and final shutter and screw the hinges into place. The shutters should be hinged in opposite directions so they zigzag when the divider is standing but fold flat when the divider is taken down.
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Paint the divider for a new look, or leave the aged surface for charm and character. Spray the aged shutters with a clear matte finish to keep the chipped paint and old wood intact.
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Tips & Warnings
Use this hinged accordion concept to make a fireplace screen from four short shutters of the same height.
When using multiple shutters for a project that must be level, like a table or plant stand, make sure the shutters are all the same height.
Mount a mirror on a small single shutter and hang on the wall.
If the shutter has slats, create a photo or card holder by slipping snapshots, postcards or holiday greetings between the slats.
References
Resources
- Photo Credit fensterladen image by Ewe Degiampietro from Fotolia.com
