Recycled Crafts

Creative DIY Projects That Turn Trash Into Treasure

How To Make A Faux Stained Glass Window With Thrifted Glass Plates

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indi of the blog Beyond the Picket Fence sent in this great idea of simply gluing lovely colored glass plates to a window to create a “stained glass” look. So simple yet so pretty.

There is something rather dangerous about wandering through a thrift store when you are a crafter. You go in looking for one sensible item and come home with six coloured glass plates because they were “too pretty to leave behind.”

Thankfully, this gorgeous recycled window project gives those lonely glass plates a very good reason to follow you home.

The idea originally came from Becky at Beyond the Picket Fence, who transformed an old wooden window into a beautiful faux stained glass display by attaching coloured glass dishes directly to the panes. When sunlight shines through the plates, the different colours, textures and patterns glow just like stained glass—without all the cutting, soldering and tiny shards of glass scattered across the craft table.

This is a particularly lovely project for a covered porch, sunroom, garden wall or bright kitchen window. It can also be used as freestanding wall art, provided the window frame is mounted securely.

Supplies You Will Need

  • An old wooden window frame with intact glass
  • Coloured or patterned glass plates, saucers and shallow bowls
  • Clear two-part epoxy suitable for glass
  • Isopropyl alcohol or glass cleaner
  • Clean lint-free cloths
  • Paper and pencil
  • Painter’s tape
  • Mixing sticks and a disposable mixing surface
  • Protective gloves
  • Safety glasses
  • Heavy-duty D-rings, eye screws or other suitable hanging hardware
  • Chain or picture-hanging wire rated for the finished weight
  • Optional clear silicone adhesive for additional edge support

Look for coloured glass dishes at thrift stores, garage sales and charity shops. Mismatched saucers are often very inexpensive because nobody seems to know what to do with one random green plate. We do now.

A strong, clear-drying two-part glass epoxy or e6000 is important for this project. Ordinary craft glue, hot glue and basic school glue are not suitable for supporting the weight of glass dishes.

Comments

  1. I did send in this bit of gossip. However, Becky is the genius behind Beyond The Picket Fence. I am just one of the followers of her blog.

Have you read?

Michaela McMillan: Weaving Stories into Sculptural Art

Michaela McMillan is a UK-based mixed media artist known for her unique, narrative-driven sculptures made from recycled and found materials. Her work is deeply inspired by a childhood filled with parables and a strong ‘Good Life’ philosophy, which emphasizes sustainability and resourcefulness—values that continue to shape her artistic practice.

At the core of Michaela’s creations is her love for storytelling, paired with a deep connection to nature. Her sculptures often feature animals and human figures, skillfully assembled using decoupage, assemblage, and textile techniques. Each piece is a playful yet thought-provoking exploration of themes like identity, transformation, and the environment.

Michaela’s work has been featured in various exhibitions, including a notable show called “Our Journey” at Hub Sleaford in 2022. Her pieces are praised for their intricate details and the way they breathe new life into discarded objects, turning them into treasured works of art.

For those who are interested in discovering more about Michaela McMillan’s artistic journey and her eco-conscious approach to sculpture, her portfolio offers a fascinating glimpse into her ongoing commitment to sustainable, meaningful art.