About Decorative Door Glass

Adding decorative glass to a door can create drama.

Adding decorative door glass to a cabinet or solid door can instantly create drama or mystery. It can make a room seem larger, and it can add a designer touch. Patterns run the gamut from gourmet to vintage. With multiple textures and designs from which to choose, the options are wide and varied, and depend on your taste and budget.

Types

Textured glass can be ribbed, bubbled or look like water.

Decorative glass is available in three types: clear glass, with etching or special cuts to create bevels; with texture added; and colored. Etched glass can be either a positive etch, where the design is etched and the background is clear, or a negative etch, where the background is etched and the design is clear. The etching is permanently applied to the glass by removing the top layers of glass with abrasives and air pressure. Textured glass can be ribbed, bubbled or look like water. Colored glass is frequently used with caming--strips of lead or copper set between the glass to create a stained glass look.

Benefits

Add an element of drama to your room by introducing decorative glass.

Adding decorative glass to builder-grade kitchen cabinets can instantly transform your cabinets from bland to exciting. Decorative glass adds value to a home and enhances curb appeal. It can mirror your taste and personality, and it can allow your house to become a true reflection of your own eclectic tastes.

Uses

Decorative door glass can add artistic expression while maintaining privacy.

Decorative door glass can be added to any door or cabinet from the front door to the kitchen. If the room is dark, adding glass can open the area to light by providing a reflection of the available light. Depending on your needs, decorative glass can provide privacy or make the space feel more open, while providing you with an opportunity for artistic expression.

Considerations

If adding glass to an exterior door, keep security in mind.

Regardless of whether it is beveled or stained, glass is breakable. Cabinet inserts in the kitchen should be only in upper cabinets. Not only is it safer, but it shows off the decorative glass better at eye level. If you are adding glass to an exterior door, keep in mind security factors. Decorative glass can add a custom look to your decor, but should be used in moderation.

Cost

Decorative door glass comes in all price ranges.

Decorative glass comes in a variety of price ranges, with textured glass being the least expensive. For example, a piece of glass that is 28 inches by 48 inches would cost approximately $95 for textured glass, $280 for etched and $588 for stained glass, as of 2010.

References

• Woelky's Glass Studio: Cabinet Glass Inserts For Every Budget
• Spectrum Glass: Categories of Art Glass Texture
• Kitchen Remodel Ideas: Designing Your Kitchen With Stained Glass