How to Make a Window Frame for a Stained Glass Window

Building a window frame for a stained glass project is easy in comparison to creating the stained glass work of art. Purchased or created stained glass projects can be framed by building a wood frame, similar in nature to a picture frame, or by securing glass to a metal frame. Purchase metal frames from a hardware store, or from a salvage yard or flea market. Old window screen or mobile home frames are economical and durable choices for building a stained glass window frame.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Stained glass project
• Wood frame, metal screen frame, or wood edged with a miter saw.
• Power drill
• Power screwdriver
• Plastic mountng brackets - like the ones used to affix a full length mirror to a door or wall. (8)
• Measuring tape
• Permanent marker to establish hole marks for drilling.
• Helper - to hold glass and frame in place while attaching to window.

1. 
   Stained glass mounted inside old window shutters.

   Measure the stained glass project, and window frame. Fit glass snugly inside frame for safe mounting.

2. 
   Use plastic or metal bracket mounts to secure frame to window sill.

   Purchase wooden frame pieces, or find metal a screen frame. Cut a quarter of an inch edging in wood pieces with a miter saw, if not using pre-cut framing wood.

3. 
   Stained glass mounted directly to window sill with plastic mounting brackets.

   Drill holes into the wood or metal to attach the plastic bracket mounts. Drill three holes on each side of the frame. Center first hole in the middle of the frame, add holes an inch from the end on each side of the center holes.
   Measure window frame, drill holes to match the hole placement on the frame. Use a drill bit to correspond with mounting bracket screw size. Mounting bracket packages note the weight capacity of the bracket set.

4. Place stained glass on frame interior ledge.

5. Balance the stained glass and frame against the window. A helper may be required to prevent glass from sliding or dropping.

6. Press frame firmly against the window frame, and attach plastic mounting brackets with a power screwdriver.

Resources

• Internet Stained Glass Tools and Mounting Supply website