On the other hand, if you like the look of faux stained glass, it’s a fun and easy way to quickly decorate a window in your home.  It’s also a safe project for your kids to tackle.

Here’s what you’ll need:

·        A window you want to paint

·        Sand paper

·        Window cleaner

·        Simple drawings (a pattern) to fill the panes

·        Simulated liquid leading (8oz for a large 6 pane window)

·        Stained glass paint

·        Paint brushes

You can get simulated leading, stained glass paint, and paint brushes at many craft stores.  Major retailers like Wal-Mart or K-Mart probably won’t carry leading or stained glass paint, but craft stores like Michael’s Arts and Crafts will.

Here’s what you’ll do:

·        Clean the window panes thoroughly, making sure you clean off all grime, fingerprints, etc.

·        Sketch your pattern on a piece paper to fill the pane, or use a pattern you’ve purchased. Tape it to the back side of the window; that way you can see it but you won’t paint on it.

·        Following the pattern, make an outline with the liquid leading.  Simple patterns are the easiest to work with.  Your goal with the liquid leading is to simulate the lead came found in traditional stained glass windows.  Remember, you don’t have to be perfect; most stained glass windows aren’t perfect, either.

·        Let the leading dry thoroughly per its instructions.  Once it’s completely dry, paint inside all the lines with glass paint.

As you can see, creating a faux stained glass window is fairly simple.  Best of all, if you’re not satisfied with what you’ve done, you can scrape off the paint and leading and try again!