CUSTOM SHUTTERS

The size, style and color you want—for less than the cost of plastic shutters

- JEFF GORTON

My hunt for manufactured decorative shutters got me nowhere—I found only very limited selections of sizes, styles and colors. Then it occurred to me that it would be simpler and quicker to build my own. Cheaper, too. My DIY shutters cost less than most of the plastic versions I saw.

My design is simple, just four 1x4 boards joined by a cleat. The details are what make the shutters special. I’ll show you how to cut notches in the boards to create attractive shadow lines and how to reduce the thickness of the cleats for a refined appearance.

Measure, then buy materials

Before going to the home center, measure your windows to determine the height of the shutters so you can figure out the length of boards you need. For the most authentic look, measure from the top of the window frame (not including the window trim) to the top of the windowsill and build your shutters this height. Use these measurements to make your lumber list. Each pair of shutters requires eight 1x4 boards and an additional 5 ft. of 1x4 for the cleats.