Photos > CraftsMay 23, 2006

Faux Stained Glass (Directions)

Faux Stained GlassI have an inexpensive and easy tip on how to make faux stained glass windows (or anything glass) using clear Contac paper and any craft store paint for $1.00 or less a bottle. This project is only practical on small windows such as are in your front door or small bathroom windows. Best of all, you can remove it very easily if you don't like the results.

I also put a coat of preservative on it when I was finished painting, also inexpensive.

Directions

1. Measure the exact size you need on the back of the Contac paper. It's already marked off in inches so it's very easy. Then cut it out.

2. Using a regular #2 pencil I drew the outline directly onto the front of the Contac paper. I then filled it in with the desired colors. It took two coats. I used the regular water based craft paint sold in craft stores and Walmart. It's less than a dollar a bottle and when on sale a lot cheaper.

3. After the paint was dry, I outlined the entire pattern with a black ink Sharpie pen.

4. I then removed the backing from the Contac, using a paper towel dunked in wet, soapy water I applied that to the Contac before positioning it on the window. The soapy water is to give you a little extra time to move it around before it adheres, making it easier to get it on straight. When that was dry and had been on a couple days I then applied the water based varnish or preservative (sold along with the paint), which will make it easier to wipe off to clean.

I used the flash on the camera which threw a glare on the photo. It actually looks like the bottom part of the picture.

By June Scholtz from Erie, Pa.

Feedback

Read feedback for this post below.

By
01/08/2012

Absolutely love it. Great detailed instructions with very helpful tips. Thank you for posting this!

By (Guest Post) 10/23/2006

All the "would like to try this" makes me a little crazy. Who actually did this? I would like to know before I deck out about 20 bucks for supplies.

Editor's Note: The original poster actually did this.

By
10/05/2006

this is so great i am going to give it a try!! thanks for sharing!! Dar in Texas

By Janet45101 (Guest Post) 05/30/2006

Oh, June, this is beautiful! What a smart lady
you are...an incredible project to try. Thank you!

By Tedebear (Guest Post) 05/25/2006

Hi June, Thank you for the directions. I can't paint, but I am going to put the contact paper on the window first and tape the picture to the back and then I will be able to "draw" it onto the contact paper. You are FANTASTIC!

By
05/25/2006

Wow, great job June and thanks for sharing. I plan on giving this a try.

By
05/24/2006

Thank you for the instructions and the picture.
I really hope to try to do this soon, maybe
a theme, one for 4th of July or something.
And for Christmas.

By
05/24/2006

You can also do faux stained glass on similar principles using acetate sheets - they do fade over time, tho- how do yours stand up?

By di (Guest Post) 05/24/2006

cool

By
05/23/2006

You did a really beautiful job. Do you have other examples?

By
05/23/2006

Looks great.

By Janet (Guest Post) 05/23/2006

Looks wonderful!

By Tedebear (Guest Post) 05/23/2006

Hi June, This is terrific. I would love to try this!

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