How to Add Leading to Panes

Many homeowners want the appearance of leaded glass windows and the function of modern air-tight windows. To achieve the look of leaded glass with any window, you can use the same trick that builders and designers use: leaded tape. This tape is available in several styles, and some is as thick as true leaded stained glass installations. They are much easier to install and maintain, and you can enjoy the modern economics of dual pane windows and the ambiance of the look you want.

Window cleaner
Newspaper
Pattern
Tape
Artist's knife
Bone tool
Leading tape

Instructions

- 1
  Clean the side of the window where you are attaching the leading. Use glass cleaner and newspaper to remove all film, oil and debris from the window.
- 2
  Open the window. Tape the pattern you want to the side of the window opposite the side to be leaded.
- 3
  Flatten out the leading tape in your fingers. Do not stretch it. Start the leading along the edge of the window frame or glazing. Following your pattern, press the lead to the glass using the bone tool. Cut the lead to fit the window edges. Rub down the center of the lead tape, then use the end of the bone tool to press down the edges.
- 4
  Cross over the lead tape at joints. If you cut the tape, you may create unattractive ends when you complete one side of the window. Clean the other side and lead tape it to match.

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Windows, Doors & Walls