I’m not sure if these windows were once the style but the framing used is the most basic door casing ever. I might be being dramatic here because in reality the casing is okay (not really) but it def was not the vibe I was going for. It surely wasn’t going to work for me with this vestibule entryway upgrade.
Did I plan to re-create the frame prior to diving into this project? Nope. Because everything I do is on a whim. Anyway keep reading to see how I upgraded this frame and made it colonial style to fit my home.
After purchasing your supplies, you’re ready to start. My goal was to make it look as close as possible to the already existent window frames in my house. It turned out pretty close.
Now what you’re here for.. Let’s build this!
Tools:
- Brad nailer
- Multitool
- Miter saw
Supplies:
- Wood of your choice to build
- Wood glue
- In lieu of an official Trim Puller: crow bar, hammer, chisel, paint scraper (aka anything you can fit under the trim as you lift it)
- Box cutter
- Paint
- Caulk
- Tape measure
- Level
- Sanding block
STEP 1 Remove the old window frame.
Use the box cutter to score the frame in order to loosen it.
I highly recommend getting a trim puller. But if you’re like me and don’t have one, you can use whatever tools you have laying next to you. OK not really but sort of?
I used a paint scraper to get under the frame. I hammer a chisel in to create some type of gap in order to pry open with the hammer.
When the frame is lifted, it’s easy to get the hammer in to pry the frame off. I use a drywall knife to protect the wall from the hammer.
I used a multitool in the corners to help separate the material (wood). I only needed to do this on the bottom ledge since I was adding stool moulding.
STEP 2 Choose your design.
This is the wood I chose after wandering the Home Depot aisles aimlessly. I kept putting pieces of wood together and trying to imagine how this would come together.
I first needed to assemble the frame. I glued two pieces to a piece of scrap poplar because the outer trim sat a bit lower than the trim. Glueing this allowed everything to be level.
STEP 3 Glue and nail.
Once you’re ready, start glueing and nailing everything to the wall. Glue is not mandatory. Some people choose not to use it and that’s okay.
Building tip: Sometimes I do that too. What you will need to do is hold the brad nailer at an angle (upward or downward) and alternate every time you nail.
It’s very important to use a level to make sure everything is straight.
I was able to complete the framing in one day. I even added a new ledge.
STEP 4 Patch.
Use wood filler to cover the brad nail holes. Along the seams, use caulk so there is a clean finish when you paint. I lightly sanded with a sanding block until everything was smooth.
STEP 5 Paint.
And you’re done.
And if you’re a visual person like me, here is a REEL. And don’t forget, you can always watch me build in real time on Instagram.
