When driving around a neighborhood, if you spot old windows waiting to be picked up by waste haulers and you're tempted to stop and load them into your car, you're not alone. Old windows make wonderful home décor accents if you use a little ingenuity to trick them out. One of the most compelling ways to recycle an old window is to paint words across the panes that reflect your playful side. Consider this your opportunity to share your philosophy or just have fun.
1 Measure the window to create a layout on paper or use a computer draw program to allocate the right amount space to your letters once your message is on the glass. If your window is divided into panes, this step is particularly important so the sentiment is evenly spaced across the expanse. On the other hand, you may decide to paint one word on each panel, such as the names of each of your family members.
2 Pick a font. Pull down the font menu on your computer's word processing program and find ones that please you. Avoid complex fonts featuring multiple widths and curves like Curlz, Edwardian Script, Zapfino and Desdemona if this is your first glass-painting project. Print out your five favorites so you have reference samples when you shop for stencils.
3 Shop for stencils at your favorite craft store. Make sure you bring your font list, window dimensions and layout with you. Alternatively, order exactly what you need from a stencil website: stipulate the exact letter size and font you need when you place your order. If you're a craft maven and confident in your ability to cut your own stencil, set computer type, enlarge the letters and print them out on acetate sheets before cutting out the letters with a craft blade.
4 Clean both sides of the window with window cleaner. Repair splits, cracks or damage to the window frame. Use a pencil and yardstick to draw guides on the right side of the glass so your letters line up nicely. Use masking tape to fasten the stencils to the wrong side of the pane(s) so nothing budges when you start painting. Once the letters are in place, erase the pencil marks.
5 Apply glass paint to the window. Use an acrylic paint formulated specifically for creating art on glass to achieve the best result. Some crafters prefer a stippling brush to do the job, while others find that foam paint applicators better meet their needs. Try both to see which one feels right. Once all of the letters are filled in, give the window ample time to dry before peeling off the template.
