A garden trellis adds charm and functionality to any outdoor space, supporting climbing plants like roses, ivy, or morning glories. But instead of buying an expensive one, why not upcycle an old window frame into a unique, vintage-style trellis?
In this DIY guide, you’ll learn:
✔ How to repurpose an old window frame into a beautiful trellis
✔ Step-by-step instructions with minimal tools
✔ Best climbing plants to pair with your trellis
Let’s turn junk into garden art and create something truly stunning!
1. Why Use an Old Window Frame for a Trellis?
Using an old window frame instead of a store-bought trellis has several benefits:
✔ Eco-Friendly – Upcycling reduces waste and gives new life to old materials.
✔ Budget-Friendly – No need to buy a trellis when you can make one for free!
✔ Vintage Aesthetic – A window frame trellis adds a charming, cottagecore look.
✔ Sturdy & Durable – Old wooden frames are stronger than many store-bought trellises.
💡 Pro Tip: Look for discarded window frames at flea markets, salvage yards, or even old barns!
2. Materials & Tools Needed
Materials:
🔲 Old wooden window frame (without glass)
📏 Chicken wire, wire mesh, or twine (for climbing support)
🎨 Wood stain or weatherproof paint (optional for protection)
🪵 Extra wooden slats (if needed for reinforcement)
🔩 Screws, nails, or zip ties (to secure the support material)
Tools:
🪚 Sandpaper (for smoothing rough edges)
🔨 Hammer or drill (depending on your frame type)
🖌️ Paintbrush (for staining or painting)
🔧 Wire cutters (if using chicken wire)
💡 Tip: If you can’t find an old wooden window frame, you can use a picture frame or wooden pallet!
3. Step-by-Step Guide to Making a DIY Window Frame Trellis
Step 1: Prepare the Window Frame
✔ Remove any remaining glass (if there’s any left).
✔ Sand the wood to remove splinters and smooth out rough edges.
✔ Reinforce the frame by adding extra wooden slats if necessary.
💡 Tip: If you want a weathered, rustic look, don’t sand too much—just enough to remove dirt!
Step 2: Paint or Stain for Protection (Optional)
✔ Use wood stain for a natural, antique look OR
✔ Paint with outdoor weatherproof paint to prevent rot.
🌿 Popular Colors for a Vintage Look:
🎨 Soft white (cottagecore aesthetic)
🎨 Distressed pastel blue (shabby chic style)
🎨 Dark brown or walnut stain (rustic farmhouse look)
💡 Tip: For a distressed vintage look, lightly sand the edges after painting!
Step 3: Attach Climbing Support Material
You’ll need something for your plants to cling onto as they grow.
✔ Option 1: Chicken Wire – Securely staple or nail it onto the back of the frame.
✔ Option 2: Twine or Wire Grid – Attach horizontal & vertical lines across the frame.
✔ Option 3: Wooden Slats – Nail in thin wooden pieces to create a crisscross pattern.
💡 Tip: Use rust-resistant staples or nails to avoid deterioration over time.
Step 4: Install the Trellis in Your Garden
You can install your window frame trellis against a wall, fence, or as a freestanding feature.
✔ Against a Wall or Fence: Screw it into place for stability.
✔ Freestanding Trellis: Attach two wooden stakes or metal rods to the base and push them into the soil.
✔ Leaning Style: Simply lean it against a shed or wall for a relaxed, cottage-style vibe.
💡 Tip: If placing it in a windy area, reinforce the base with bricks or stones for extra weight.
4. Best Climbing Plants for Your Window Frame Trellis
Now that you’ve built your trellis, it’s time to choose the perfect plants to grow on it!
Flowering Climbers (for a romantic garden look)
✔ Clematis – Large, colorful blooms in spring & summer.
✔ Morning Glories – Fast-growing & perfect for vertical spaces.
✔ Climbing Roses – Classic cottage-garden elegance.
✔ Sweet Peas – Fragrant & great for cut flowers.
Edible Climbers (for a functional trellis)
✔ Grape Vines – Create a natural shade canopy.
✔ Climbing Beans – Beautiful red or white blossoms + edible pods.
✔ Cucumbers – Keep fruits off the ground & easy to harvest.
✔ Passionfruit Vine – Gorgeous flowers + delicious fruit!
💡 Tip: Pair flowering and edible climbers together for a beautiful yet functional trellis!
5. Creative Ways to Customize Your Trellis
Your DIY window frame trellis doesn’t have to be just functional—make it a decorative statement!
🌸 String fairy lights through the frame for a magical nighttime effect.
🦋 Add hanging mason jars with small flowers or candles.
🪶 Attach small decorative hooks to hang garden tools.
🖼️ Frame a piece of outdoor artwork in the center for a unique garden display.
💡 Tip: If using multiple window frames, arrange them in a staggered or archway formation for a more dramatic effect!
6. Maintenance Tips to Keep Your Trellis Beautiful
To ensure your trellis lasts for years, follow these simple maintenance tips:
✔ Check for rot – Repaint or seal the wood annually.
✔ Tighten screws/nails – Wind & plant growth may loosen them over time.
✔ Trim climbing plants – Prevent overgrowth that could break the frame.
✔ Clean it seasonally – Remove dead vines and refresh any faded paint.
💡 Tip: Add a fresh coat of sealant before winter to protect against moisture damage!
Final Thoughts: Turn Trash into Treasure with a DIY Trellis!
By upcycling an old window frame, you’ve created a beautiful, vintage-style trellis that’s both functional and artistic. Whether supporting climbing flowers, veggies, or vines, this trellis will add character, charm, and practicality to your garden for years to come!
💬 Would you try making a window frame trellis? Let me know in the comments! 💬
📌 Follow Chic Garden Whispers on Pinterest for More DIY Garden Projects! 🌿📌