There are many different ways and styles to window paint. If you are interested in beginning window painting there is a lot of technique and instruction available. There are also several decisions that need to be made before you get started.
The first decision to make is whether you want a permanent window display or if you want a temporary window painting design.
Permanent Window Painting: Permanent window painting would be a good option if you are looking for a stained glass look or if you want a painted window for the purpose of privacy.
Temporary Window Painting: If you are looking to paint a storefront window or a commercial building, temporary window painting is probably the way to go. Often times stores want their windows painted for seasonal displays or with special deals or prices of items. Temporary window paintings can be used at residences as well if you are looking for a seasonal pattern that will be changed throughout the year.
The next decision to make when window painting is what type of picture or pattern you want.
Purchased Patterns: There are many patterns available for purchase on the Internet or in local craft stores. There are a very wide variety of patterns to choose from. As mentioned earlier, seasonal patterns are available as well as geometric patterns, floral designs, animal patterns and many others. Most purchased patterns come in 2 different sizes – they are 22×28 inches and 8×10 inches. These purchased patterns also come with a color key in order to make painting simple and user-friendly.
Create your own Pattern: Windows can be painted on just the same as painting something on paper. You have the option to paint whatever picture or pattern you choose. You can freehand a picture on a window or you can create your own pattern. If you do want to freehand a design it is recommended that you do sketch something on paper first so as not to make a mistake or get a final product that you are not please with.
The next piece of information needed for window painting is how to go about painting the window and what products you will need.
Paint: If you are doing a permanent window painting you will need different paint than you would for a temporary painting. Permanent paintings require Enamel paint such as Folk Art Enamel paints, or a professional quality tempera paint such as ProArt. One could also use an acrylic paint and add a sealer medium to the paint. A glass or tile sealer medium would work well. A temporary window painting is simpler. You only need a regular acrylic paint. All of these products can be found at a local craft store.
Masking tape: It is a good idea to tape off areas as you would when painting a room so you don’t get paint in areas where you don’t want it.
A razor blade: This comes in handy for you can scrape off paint before or during painting.
Paintbrushes: A good selection of One Stroke brushes in various sizes and styles are a must for the project.
Washcloth and water: It is a good idea to clean the area before painting a design on it. Make sure it is clear of any paint for a previous design and clean of any other residue.
Another choice you will need to make before beginning is whether you want to paint the inside or the outside of the window. In some areas the paint will wear faster on the outside. But usually if there is some kind of protection from the weather the two will wear at about the same rate. Both will get scratched. Typically a storefront window painting will last 3-4 months before being re-painted. Painting the inside of the window is a little bit more difficult because you have to paint backwards. Typically a beginner would choose to paint the outside of the window because it is easier.