How To Update An Old Window With Glass Paint

Learn how to update an old window using glass paint. Create a floral design using napkins as a template. I created a chinoiserie inspired design.

Hello! Michelle from Our Crafty Mom back today with a fun DIY project. I had an old window in my basement that I’ve been wanting to update. Since I just received some new glass paint, now was a perfect time.

Old windows are something that you can find at thrift stores, yard sales and flea markets for cheap. They are so versatile and can be used indoors or out for unique home decorating ideas. My favorite way to use them is simply to place a seasonal wreath on it. It has a pretty farmhouse look.

fireplace with vintage painted glass window

How to update an old window with glass paint

This is a little time consuming, but well worth the effort. It’s definitely a statement piece. I just set up the window on a table in my living room, put on a good movie and started painting. Let’s get to the tutorial.

What you need:

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tools needed:

Paint Brush

Supplies or Ingredients Needed:

old window prior to painting shown on wood floor

Instructions:

1. Clean the window

Be sure to clean the window with rubbing alcohol to remove any dust, dirt or fingerprints.

white painted window with glass paint markers and napkins

2. Paint the window frame

I wanted the window frame to keep an aged look and didn’t want it to be completely covered in paint. To achieve this, I gave it a simple white wash paint technique. This is basically just dry brushing white paint around the entire frame. You can still see lots of chips and breaks in the frame. This adds to the shabby look!

3. Tape The napkin to the window

I wanted to use the pretty chinoiserie floral design that was in the napkins. The easiest way was to do that was to tape the napkin to the underside of the window. That way I could trace the design onto the front of the glass.

blue and white floral napkin taped to old window

4. paint the flowers onto the window

Use the glass paint marker to trace the design onto the window glass. It’s very easy to see the design through the glass. The napkin is not as large as each pane, so you will need to line up the napkin to complete each pane.

tracing flowers on glass window with glass paint marker

5. continue to PAINT THE window

Repeat the painting process in each window pane until the window is complete. You can also just paint a portion of the window and also use more than one color. It is totally a matter of preference. I really wanted to stick with the blue and white look that is throughout my home.

The main tip I have is to take your time and have fun with it. I did not complete this all at once. I did a couple of window panes at a time. Also, the paint pens make it so much easier than actually painting with a small paint brush.