Say Goodbye To Curtains: A Beautiful Way To Add Privacy To Windows With An Easy DIY

There's something romantic about gauzy curtains fluttering in the breeze, but they have some downsides as well. Whether they get in your way when you're trying to clean, don't really fit your aesthetic, or get clawed up by your cats, there are alternative window treatments you could try. For example, turn your windows into gorgeous faux stained glass! It can add whimsy and beauty to your room without sacrificing the privacy that curtains provide. The colored tints will soften the natural light from outside much like a thin sheer curtain would as well as obscure the view of your room from outside. You don't need colorful glass or a soldering iron, either –just glue, paint or food coloring, a paintbrush, and potentially some tape.

It's a remarkably simple idea, which is part of what makes it fun. The glue helps the coloring agent stick to the glass, but it can also be removed later with water and a scraper, making this renter-friendly. The coloring can look mottled or swirled, or even and solid, depending on your preference. You can use black paint for the faux soldering between the different colors or use thin lines of electrical black tape instead. Paint the design directly onto the window or paint Plexiglass and attach it over the glass. Painting your window itself is more convenient, but if you're worried about the paint not coming off later or want a clear view sometimes, the second method may be a better fit.

Start by designing your window. You can sketch your own design if you have something specific in mind, make use of a free stained glass template online, or even try to mimic a famous piece like this rare vintage stained glass. Make sure to scale the design so it fits neatly onto the window. Trace the design onto your window or tape the template onto the other side so it's visible through the glass, then mix your colors. You can make them one at a time or mix up all of them at once. If you're making them in one batch, cover the ones you aren't using right away with a lid or bit of tinfoil to prevent them from drying or developing a skin on top.

You can give your lines the classic narrow look of real soldering by using the glue bottle to apply them. Mix a small amount of paint or food coloring into your glue, then test it on a scrap piece of glass or plastic. If the color looks nice to you, paint the corresponding sections of your design. Repeat the process for each color, let it dry, and give a second coat to any places that you think should be darker. Check how it looks from outside to ensure it's private enough. And keep in mind faux stained glass is just one of many ways to cover windows. Let this fun project inspire you to explore more creative window coverings like, using cool tapestry or abstract wall painting! Many people opt for these options when looking for ways to cover awkward windows, but they work for typical windows as well.