How to create unique DIY stained glass windows with ease

Stained glass windows, those colored glass panels, have always been associated with cathedrals
and religious sites. Actually, stained glass windows have become a preferred accent and
decoration for windows in offices and homes. They come in a variety of colors and sizes ready to
fit into your home. They don’t come cheap, but you can easily create your own DIY stained glass
windows to enhance the overall beauty of your house. Creating your own stained glass windows
is far much cheaper than purchasing one made by a professional.

So how do you get your creative juices running and create your personalized stained glass
window?

For a start, you will need the following materials which can easily be sourced at any home
improvement or crafts shop: Plexiglas sheet, leading, leading strips, ceramcoat or any glass paint
of your choice, glass paint sealer, cutter or crafts knife, your preferred pattern, and a double-
sided adhesive tape. You’ll also need a pack of toothpicks too.

Once you have the aforementioned materials, it will be time to first measure the size of your
window, and cut the Plexiglas half an inch smaller than your window’s size to get a perfect fit.
Then paint on the Plexiglas trying to be as creative as possible so you can make a beautiful
design. The next step is to attach the sheeting to your window. This gives the impression of a real
stained glass. Remember, you never painted directly on the window glass but still achieved the
same effect. This method allows you to change the design of your window any time you feel
like, simply by replacing the Plexiglas sheet.

The entire process may sound easy, but it is actually a very intricate operation requiring keen
attention to small details. For instance, when painting Plexiglas, make sure to do it on a flat
surface or the paint may run down and ruin your beautiful design. Take time to measure your
windows accurately, and carry the measurement along with you to the home improvement store.
Ask the store attendants to cut the Plexiglas for you. Remember, it should be a quarter inch
shorter than the exact window measurement for a good fit. Cutting it this way also helps you to
carry the Plexiglas without bending it.

Before you even go out shopping for the materials, take time to first decide on the best design for
your room. Find a good design that complements the color scheme and the general looks of the
room. You can buy ready-made designs complete with patterns and instructions for coloring at
any good Arts and Crafts store near you. However, make the project a little bit personal by using
more of your own creativity and designs rather than the ideas presented in the mass produced
copy from the Crafts store.

Fixing the pattern is quite simple if done with steady hands. Simply place it beneath the Plexiglas
and hold it securely with adhesive tape to prevent it from moving while you paint. You can see
the results of your creative work through the Plexiglas. The leading strips should be carefully
placed around the outlines of your pattern, and the liquid leading should be used to seal joints
where one lead strip joins another. Give your design around 24 hours to dry completely before
installing it on your window.