How to Make a Normal Window Look Like Stained Glass

A simple geometric pattern is a good design to start with.

Stained glass has been around for centuries and reached its peak in Europe during Gothic and Renaissance times. Stained glass came to America with colonists in the early 17th century and underwent a European revival in the 1800s. Originally found in churches and cathedrals, stained glass took on non-religious themes in the 20th century and began cropping up as an architectural feature in homes and offices. True stained glass involves cutting and working with lead, but similar looks can be crafted with paints.

Things You'll Need

• Paper
• Pencil
• Plastic bag
• Dimensional fabric paints in squeeze bottle, various colors
• Spray adhesive, optional

Instructions

1. On paper, draw a bold, graphic image that will fit in your window. Refer to images of stained glass or find free patterns online.

2. Cut plastic bag open so it lies flat on your protected work surface; slide your design under the plastic. If the bag is not large enough, a non-stick crafting sheet may be used.

3. Using black dimensional fabric paint, apply paint over the penciled lines of your design. Allow black paint to dry.

4. Squeeze another color of paint into an open area of your design, making sure the colored paint touches the black painted lines on all sides. Spread paint out to an even thickness using the applicator tip on the top of the bottle.

5. Move to another section and repeat until all the open areas of the design are colored in with paint. Allow to dry.

6. Gently pull the plastic bag away from the back side of the painted design.

7. Apply to a clean glass window. The texture of the paint should be enough to hold the design in place; if your piece does not stick, lightly spray the side that will be on the glass with repositionable adhesive.

References

• Stained Glass Association of Americ: History of Stained Glass

Resources

• Free Stained Glass Patterns
• Tarkheena Crafts: Stained Glass Stick-Ons