- 1). Search in architectural salvage supply stores or go on a garage sale adventure to locate the perfect windows for your project. Before you go shopping, measure the height and width of the cabinet openings to be certain that the panes of glass will be inside of the cabinet frame. Don't worry if the window frame itself will need to be trimmed. Select windows that are in solid condition.
- 2). Remove the current cabinet doors from the cabinet frames. Dry fit your vintage windows and measure how much of the frame will need to be cut to fit the cabinet frames. Remember to divide the measurement in half and cut both sides of the window. That way, there will be the same exposure on both sides. Next, with either a table or skill saw, rip both sides of your new windows to fit both the height and width of your cabinet openings. Be sure to sand all rough edges.
- 3). Repaint now if you want to repaint to match your decor or to restore the finish. To achieve a professional finish, lightly sand the surface and prime with an oil-based enamel primer. Finish with two coats of finish in the color of your choice. During the surface preparation and restoration, you may need to stabilize the antique window panes. Replace any loose window putty or filler prior to priming.
- 4). Dry fit the windows onto the cabinet frames. Measure three inches from the top and bottom of the new window for hinge location, and drill the holes for your California hinges. This is done by the use of a forstner bit that can be found at most big box home improvement outlets. After making the necessary holes in your windows, attach the hinges onto the windows. When the hinges are in place on the windows only, dry fit and mark the appropriate pilot holes needed on the cabinet frames. Now you can fasten the windows onto the frames. Add a knob or pull, and you have just completed a stylish upgrade of your old cabinets.
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