How to Make "Stained Glass" with Tissue Paper

My son made this stained-glass style picture from tissue paper and construction paper. It's easy to do, low cost, and can be placed in an inexpensive frame for a striking decoration.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Tracing paper
• Black construction paper
• tissue paper- several colors
• sharp scissors or x-acto knife
• Masking tape
• Tacky glue or stick glue

1. 
   The picture on the right is a better depiction of family.

   Choose a simple picture. Look in magazines, coloring books, and online.
   Pick something that will look good divided into sections, like a stained glass window. Think of how it will look in outline.
   Keep it simple. My son is very artistic, but I wouldn't recommend a complicated picture for a first try.

2. 

   Trace the outline onto tracing paper. This pattern uses a doubled mirror image, so he drew half. (You don't have to do this.)

3. 

   Carefully cut the construction paper. Make sure the lines aren't too thin, or they'll tear. If they do tear, repair them on the back side with a bit of extra paper and a dab of glue.

4. Choose the colors of tissue paper and carefully cut them to fit. The pieces of tissue paper have to be just barely bigger than the openings in the construction paper.

5. 

   Turn the black paper over and apply the glue a bit at a time, finishing one "pane" before starting on the next. If you use white or tacky glue, wipe off all excess so the tissue won't get mushy. Be sure not to pull on wet tissue, as it will tear.

Tips & Warnings

• Look for a frame that has two pieces of glass, front and back. It would be even better than a regular frame.
• If you put it in a window, place it on the shady side of the house, as paper will lose its color over time.

[ttbirdie]

on 7/6/2009 How cute, thanks 5*

[trvlarrngr]

on 7/6/2009 great tips! looks easy too! Thanks