Looking for an easy way to create the look of stained glass without cutting glass or using expensive tools? This beginner-friendly DIY uses Gallery Glass paint and a simple floating frame to create a beautiful faux stained glass piece that's perfect for spring décor, gifts, or displaying around your home.
Difficulty: 🌷 Beginner
Time: ⏱️ 45–60 minutes (+ overnight drying)
Cost: 💲 Around $15–25
Materials You'll Need
- Floating picture frame
- Gallery Glass paint (or white glue mixed with acrylic paint)
- Printed template
- Cotton swabs (Q-tips)
- Toothpick
- Paper towels
- Glass cleaner
Step 1: Prepare the Frame
Take apart your floating frame and thoroughly clean both pieces of glass. Any fingerprints, dust, or residue will show through the finished design, so take a few extra minutes to get the glass as clean as possible.
Place your printed template underneath one piece of glass so you can trace directly over it.
Step 2: Trace the Outline
Using black Gallery Glass leading (or your homemade paint mixture), carefully trace the entire design.
Tip: Lower yourself to eye level while tracing. Viewing the glass straight on makes it much easier to create smooth, even lines.
Made a mistake? No problem. Before the outline dries, simply wipe it away with a Q-tip and redraw the line.
Allow the outline to dry completely before moving on.
Step 3: Fill in the Colors
Once the outline has dried, begin filling each section with Gallery Glass paint.
Start with the largest areas first before working into the smaller details.
As each section begins to settle, lightly drag a toothpick through the paint to remove bubbles and help the color spread evenly.
Step 4: Mix Custom Colors
Don't have every color?
You can easily create your own.
For this project:
- Mix red and yellow to create a warm orange with a natural ombré effect.
- Mix darker greens for leaves.
- Mix brown for the stems.
This gives the finished piece more depth than using a single flat color.
Step 5: Let It Dry
Allow the paint to dry overnight.
Resist touching the surface while it dries—Gallery Glass paint levels itself as it cures.
Step 6: Assemble the Frame
Once everything has fully dried, place the painted glass back into the floating frame.
Sandwich it between the second sheet of glass and secure the frame closed.
Your faux stained glass artwork is now ready to display!
Tips for the Best Results
✔ Clean the glass thoroughly before starting.
✔ Let the outline dry completely before adding color.
✔ Use a toothpick to pop air bubbles.
✔ Mix colors directly inside the outlined sections for a softer, blended look.
✔ Allow the piece to dry overnight before framing.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I make this without Gallery Glass paint?
Yes. Mixing white glue with acrylic paint creates a similar translucent effect, although Gallery Glass paint typically produces a smoother, more vibrant finish.
What frame works best?
A floating glass frame works best because it protects the artwork by sandwiching it between two panes of glass.
How long does it take to dry?
Most projects dry overnight, though thicker layers of paint may require additional drying time.
Watch the Tutorial
Prefer following along visually? Watch the full tutorial below: