There are so many cool projects out there that you can do with old windows. When we got our windows replaced last year, I knew exactly what I wanted to do with my old ones: turn them into mirrors. We were so excited to have new windows, especially in the basement where it is very dark. Unfortunately, our window company failed to tell us that the new basement windows would be half the size of the old ones, making it even darker. So anything that will bounce natural and artificial light down there will make it feel more cozy and less basementy. Yes, that's a word.
I decided it would be a heck of a lot easier, and probably cheaper, to just make the windows into mirrors myself, rather than having someone make mirrors to fit the specific window panes. Hobby Lobby carries an awesome paint called Looking Glass. It turns glass items into a pretty decent mirror!
You will notice the hefty price tag. I buy mine when they have their 30%-50% off special on paint, its seriously almost every other week. Or I'll use my 40% off coupon. That always helps. For this project I did two good sized windows and used about 3 cans.
First and foremost, be sure the windows are clean and dry before you start spraying. Also make sure its not super humid outside, my first window didn't want to dry smoothly when it was extremely humid. But I fixed it. Spray the opposite side of the window that you want to look mirrored. It will leave kind of a flat look, like the back side of a mirror.
I did not tape off my panels since it was on the back side and no one will see that, but if there's a possibility it might be seen, you may want to tape around the edges to protect from overspray. I did 5 very thin coats about a minute apart and it was dry very quickly! I'd say it only took 5-10 minutes to dry to the touch. I was very pleased with the finished product!.
Its not as clear as a solid mirror, but it is perfect for what I'm using it for. And the final result reminds me of an old vintage mirror, which is perfect for the aged look of the windows. Our basement has little insets that mirror the bay windows we have upstairs. I thought this was the perfect place to put each of my mirrored windows. Don't mind my messy craft area! Hey, if it wasn't messy, that would mean I probably don't use it, and let me tell you, it gets a lot of use!
This is the other side which is part of the bar area that is still under construction.
I wish my camera shot panoramic views. Anyways, I think it brightens up the space a lot and kind of gives the illusion that there is more natural light than there actually is.
