Home Garden

How Do I Make Easy Stained Glass?

The history of stained glass is a long and interesting evolution of the art form. Prior to written history, artisans were experimenting with inventive ways to create beautiful displays from plain glass. Originally used in places of worship, stained glass has become a much desired addition to public buildings and homes. While stained glass pieces are expensive to purchase, the home crafter can create unique and lovely faux pieces without spending a fortune. With a few simple tools, you can create a work of art in a few days time.

Things You'll Need

  • Glass panel
  • Rubbing alcohol
  • Paper towels
  • Painters tape
  • Stain glass pattern
  • Pencil
  • Grey acrylic caulk
  • Silicone caulk (various colors)
  • Razor blade
  • Stiff bristle brush (small)
  • Rubber gloves
Show More

Instructions

    • 1

      Clean the glass panel or window frame with rubbing alcohol and paper towels to remove any dirt and fingerprints from the work surface. Lay the panel flat if possible.

    • 2

      Protect the edges of the frame, if any, with painters tape; be careful not to adhere the tape directly to the glass. Position and tape the pattern to the back side of the panel or transfer the pattern to the back of the glass with a pencil.

    • 3

      Cut the tip of the grey acrylic caulk off with a sharp razor blade. Do not cut it off too low to avoid a large bead of caulk from being extruded. Match the size of the bead to the lead lines of the pattern. Insert the caulk tube into the caulking gun.

    • 4

      Create the lead lines of the pattern on the panel with the grey caulk, being careful to make fluid lines. When all lead lines are placed, use the razor blade to carefully remove any imperfections. Allow the lines to dry undisturbed for 24 to 48 hours.

    • 5

      Fill the open sections of the pattern with the various colors of silicone caulk. Silicone is more transparent than acrylic and will create a realistic stained glass look. Begin by placing a small amount of caulk in one section of the pattern. Use the stiff bristle brush or a finger to spread the caulk to cover the entire section. Experiment with the different applications to create the desired stained glass effects, such as smooth or rippled. Allow the silicone to dry completely. Drying times will vary depending on the thickness applied. The thicker the layer of caulk used, the less transparent the design will become.