When you think of stained glass windows, it’s likely that images of great cathedrals come to mind. However, there’s a growing trend in home decorating which incorporates these colorful, elegant windows into the home environment for an extraordinary effect. Another advantage lies in the value these windows add to your home, both in personal enjoyment and should you decide to sell.
No matter the style of your home, stained glass windows fit well with contemporary, traditional, country casual and urban chic decorating themes. Stained glass is popular in bathrooms, affording privacy with a beautiful window. Stained glass also looks striking when used to replace a clear window on a front entry door. They shed lovely light patterns through skylights. You can even use opaque white, textured glass in a variety of patterns. At different times of the day, you’ll see various prism effects when light comes through and spills onto the floor. Sandblasted glass pieces may also be used to good effect.
Depending on the placement and use of the stained glass window, you have three ways to approach your project. Many museums, such as New York’s Metropolitan, sell replicas of famous stained glass pieces, which you may hang from an existing window. The second is to look online for a stained glass artist whose work appeals to you. You can commission a specific design of your own, or buy from their stock. The third option, is to take a class at a local stained glass shop and make your own. If this appeals to your artistic sensibilities, pick a window that’s smaller and will not show any first-project mistakes. It’s also easier to work with a smaller size at the novice stage.
If you choose to make your own design, either to commission or to make yourself, you’ll need a few supplies. Go to an art supply and buy graph paper of sufficient size to your window, as well as a set of markers. Pick your subject and sketch your design with a #2 pencil. When your pencil rendering is tweaked to perfection, take your markers and fill in the design. Remember to draw pencil lines for your leading.
If you need inspiration for your stained glass window design, here’s a great source. Use Google’s image search feature to find styles, color combinations and subject matter that appeals to you. For example, mandalas and batik pieces offer terrific color combinations and patterns from which you’ll be inspired.
Once you get a project going, you may get into this home makeover mode and keep right on going. Luckily, stained glass windows make a sophisticated and elegant gift.
