DIY Interior Board & Batten Shutter Plans

Determine the best height for the board and batten shutters by holding a tape measure next to the opening to which you are mounting them. Many people choose to have the shutters slightly longer than the opening. In this case, add 3 inches to the height measurement.

Transfer this measurement onto four or six pine boards, depending on how wide you want the shutters to be. The size of the pine boards depends on how thick you want the vertical panels to be. You can use 1-by-6, 1-by-8 or 1-by-10-inch boards.

Lay all the boards on a flat surface with the measurement marks lined up. Lay a level across the boards at the lined-up marks and draw a straight line across each board. Cut each board along the line with a circular saw.

Separate the boards into two even groups. Press the boards' side edges tightly against one another with the top and bottom edges lined up. Measure 4 to 8 inches from the top edge and 4 to 8 inches from the bottom edge. Draw a straight line across each mark. Repeat this process with the second group.

Measure one group's width and transfer this measurement to a 1-by-4-inch pine board. Cut two pieces of the board to this length, one for each line. Repeat the process for the second group.

Apply a layer of wood glue to one of the 1-by-4 boards. Line up the board's bottom edge with one of the bottom lines. Repeat the process with a second board on the other group. Line up a 1-by-4 board's top edge with the top line. Repeat with a second board on the other group. Secure each 1-by-4 board in place with finishing nails.

Sand each shutter with 220-grit sandpaper and wipe the dust off each with a tack cloth. Paint or stain each shutter your desired color. Allow the first coat to dry (about one to two hours) before applying a second coat.