Gallery Glass Class

Last day of the Plaidonline 30% off Gallery Glass Promotion

2012-02-29T05:37:00.001-08:00

One of the easiest ways to reward you for being a regular reader and an all-around great Plaid online customer is to give you a DISCOUNT off your favorite Gallery Glass Products. We have done just that on the plaidonline website. Not only will you get 30% off all FolkArt and Gallery Glass products, but I have created three very special sets for your glass painting pleasure! Here they are:

Gallery Glass ® Paint Set - Basic Colors

Gallery Glass ® Paint Set - Basic Colors
Item # PROMO4

$49.99
The promotional price is $34.99 Free shipping on orders over $35.

An assortment of our most popular Gallery Glass colors and essentials -perfect for beginners or those wanting to a stock up on a palette of popular colors. Kit includes 8 oz Crystal Clear, 4 oz Liquid Leading and 2 oz bottles of the following colors: Snow White, Cameo Ivory, Sunny Yellow, Cocoa Brown, Kelly Green, Blue Diamond, Royal Blue, Amethyst, Ruby Red, Magenta Royale, Amber, Berry Red, Ivy Green, Lime Green, Turquoise, Black Onyx, Hot Pink and Pumpkin Orange. If purchased separately, these items have a total retail value of $64.80.

Size: 18 Colors, Clear, Leading

Gallery Glass ® Paint Set - Designer Colors

Item # PROMO5 $49.99
The promotional price is $34.99 Free shipping on orders over $35.

A selection of Gallery Glass favorites and specialty colors to add pizzazz to your next project. Kit includes 8 oz Crystal Clear, 4 oz Liquid Leading, 2 oz Window Etch and 2 oz bottles of the favorite color: Orange Poppy, Charcoal Black, Gold Sparkle, White Pearl, Sapphire, Citrus Yellow, Magenta Rose, Hologram Glitter, Sunflower, Morning Glory, Red Shimmer, Green Shimmer, Clear Shimmer, Aqua, Peach, Fresh Lime and Copper Metallic If purchased separately, these items have a total retail value of $64.80.

Size: 18 Colors, Clear, Leading

Gallery Glass ® Surfaces Set - Round Blanks & Suction Cups

Item # PROMO6

$19.99
The promotional price $13.99
Free shipping on orders over $35.

The perfect surface for creating with Gallery Glass. Set includes five 10" round blanks and suction cups for hanging. If purchased separately, these items have a total retail value of $25.00.

Size: Five 10" Round, Five Suction Cups

Sorry for all the white space in this post. I find it hard to copy from the Plaid website.

But to order, go to Plaidonline.com, click on "shop" in the toolbar. Then put Gallery Glass Kits in the Search bar at the Plaid Store. You will find these amazing prices, but the promo will only last through Thursday. Order now to get a 30% discount off the entire Gallery Glass line.

Circle of Roses Modular Method Window Makeover with Gallery Glass

2012-02-24T08:00:00.001-08:00

For those of you have been following us since we started two years ago, I apologize for bringing up this post from the Archives. But this is the single most "viewed" post of the entire blog. So I thought that it was worth revisiting. The Vertical Application method is where all the outlining and painting is done directly on the glass panes of the window--vertically. The Horizontal Method is outlining and painting on separate PANELS cut to fit the glass area of the window. This method is generally considered to be an easier technique, but more expensive because you have to purchase the surface or panel-- which can be costly.
Now, I'd like to introduce you to the Modular Method. It's a cross between the Vertical and Horizontal methods because the more intricate parts of the design are done horizontally on Leading Blanks as CLINGS, but then peeled off, positioned on the panes and the painting of the borders and background are done directly on the window. Advantage--you don't have to lead the hard parts with Redi-Lead AND you save the price of the panel or surface. Complete instructions for the Modular Application can be studied in detail in the Circle of Roses Modular Patterns section. If you have ANY doubts, these instructions will answer all your questions. They start from the beginning, as if you've never picked up a bottle of Gallery Glass. It's so easy.

But what if your window isn't a double hung "one over one" and you can't possibly use pink in your color scheme? Not a problem. Here is the same rose design created for a bay window--usually a decorator nightmare, no matter what window treatment you choose. It uses the same rose and bud pattern, but the arrangement makes it appear quite different. You get the idea.

First, do multiples of the Rose and Bud patterns as CLINGS. Outline and paint them on the Leading Blank and let them dry. Then peel them off and arrange in a pleasing design. Outline the borders and dividing lines with either your pre-made leading strips or use Redi-Lead strips from the Value Pack. Paint the background and border colors directly on the glass. And within one weekend, you've created a major work of art AND saved a significant amount of money. After you have learned the simple steps in the Modular Method, you will have another option in your repertoire of glass painting skills. Confused? Go to the patterns and instructions which are posted below--and read through the expanded instructions. Don't worry, it's not really anything new, just a combination of several application principles and we will have many examples of the Modular Method in coming months.

Circle of Roses Modular Window Pattern

2012-02-24T07:27:00.000-08:00

Circle of Roses Modular Window Pattern:
Gallery Glass Supplies Needed: 16003 Cameo Ivory, 16019 Gold Sparkle, 16021 White Pearl, 16023 Berry Red, 16096 Celedon Green, 16081 Crystal Clear, 8 oz., 16044 Etching Medium, 16076 Black Liquid Leading and/or 16690 Redi-Lead Value Pack

Blue Rose Window Supplies:

Gallery Glass Supplies Needed: 16002 Snow White, 16010 Denin Blue, 16096 Celadon Green, 16076 Black Liquid Leading or 1690 Redi-Lead Value Pack

Window Color Materials are NOT recommended for:

Outdoor use
Commercial or Contractor use
Surfaces in environments that are not temperature controlled (storm doors, automobiles, motor homes).
Surfaces that are in frequent contact with water or heavy condensation
Surfaces that are lower than 45 degrees F or above 90 degrees DURING application or removal. (Extremes in temperature may cause cracking and/or distortion.

Some colors may fade after many years of exposure to UV rays.
Window Color cannot be removed from clear Acrylic panels such as Plexiglas or Lexas but can be removed from styrene.

Modular Application Method Instructions

1. Make duplicates of the patterns by tracing designs with a copy machine, so you will have enough elements to complete your design. Making opposite facing duplicates of the motif (mirror image): tape the original pattern up to a window and place a blank paper over it. Outline the BACK of the original, as many times as needed for your design.
Arrange and tape all the elements to the clean window in the desired position. Place transfer paper under the elements and transfer their outer shapes to the window (for later positioning of cured elements).

2. Use a sharpened crayon or wax pencil to draw in borders and connecting lines between design elements. See window diagram below for suggested arrangement of modular elements.
3. Make leading strips (unless you plan to use Redi-Lead) and modular shapes needed for project. Coverage: 2 oz. of Window Color Paint will cover approximately 2 sq. ft. depending on thickness of application. Liquid Leading 4 oz. will make approximately 62 linear ft. of leading.

Leading of Modular Designs and Leading Strips
To begin, place smooth side of Leading Blank under pattern. Tape pattern to back of blank. Arrange all elements under sheets. If Leading Blanks are not available, you can tape the pieces to cardboard sized to fit inside a food storage bag. Do the elements on the outside of the bag.

1. Remove cap and seal from Liquid Leading. Push the curved end of the metal tool into bottle about 1/2" and twist around to make a large hole. Do not cut tip. Replace small cap on tip. Turn the bottle upside down and tap on a hard surface to force leading into the tip. Remove small cap.
2. Hold the bottle vertically, "broom handle" style, making sure the tip of the leading bottle does not touch the leading surface. Do not rest your elbow on your work surface, it will inhibit your movement. Squeeze leading (1/8" to 3/16" in diameter) on the Leading Blank over the solid lines of the pattern taped underneath. When you get near the end of your line, stop squeezing and lower the bottle tip to the leading surface to prevent blobs of leading. Continue until all elements of the design have been outlined.

3. Leading Strips: Use a sheet of lined notebook paper as a pattern for creating leading lines. Tape to back of Leading Blank. Let Liquid Leading dry approximately 8 hours or until leading strips peel up smoothly. Window Color and liquid Leading paints can only be air dried. Do not try to hasten dry time with hair dryer or fan.

Quick Reference Leading Tips
Messy Lines: Uniform lines are achieved by holding the leading tip above the leading surface and coordinating pressure on the bottle with forward movement of the bottle. Practice on notebook paper until you have mastered this rhythm.

Beginning Bumps: Anchor the leading to the Gallery Glass blank or leading surface so leading will not curl up around the tip and create a bump before beginning the line. Wipe tip with a paper towel and anchor aw you begin to squeeze.

Ending Bumps: Stop squeezing earlier before reaching the end of the line--bring tip down allowing lead to end, or to join a previously leaded line.

Correcting Mistakes: This is easier after the leaded outline is dry. Use a toothpick to gently pull up only the unwanted portion of the outline and trim it away with small scissors. Press the remaining lead firmly back down to the surface.

Painting Modular Designs

Window Color paint looks milky when wet; transparent when dry. Do not paint modular designs with Crystal Clear or Etching Medium or use Redi-Lead strips for modular designs as it will not peel up freely once applied to the surface of Gallery Glass Leading Blanks. Redi-Lead should only be used when you are applying strips directly to the surface of the project; i.e. borders or connecting lines of window projects. These should be applied vertically to window surface. Read "Instructions for Painting the Background" before applying these paints.

Note: Do not shake the paint; bubbles in paint are normal. If there is an excessive amount of bubbles, gently tap sides of bottle several times on edge of table; this will remove some of the excess bubbles.

1. Remove caps from bottle. Tips are pre-opened. Remove seal from 8 oz. bottles. Do not cut tips off , for normal application techniques.

2. After leading has dried, begin adding paint into your leaded design. Squeeze the color first around the perimeter of the leaded area, then fill in the center. Apply paint liberally, at about the same depth of the leading. Be sure the paint fills the corners of the design. If the paint is too thin, the cured design could tear when you pull it off the plastic.

3. Using curved end of metal comb and starting at top corner of leaded area of design "comb" carefully back and forth, going from top to bottom of leaded area. When combing on plastic be careful not to tear the plastic. Combing will smooth texture and pop the bubbles. If color gets on leading it will dry transparent and not be noticeable. Once area has been combed, do not go back and re-comb. Be sure to make the final combing stroke in the direction you want the texture to be.

4. Holding the corner of the leading blank firmly lift the painting surface and tap firmly under the painted section with the rounded end of the metal combing tool to remove bubbles.

5. Allow the modular design motifs to dry and cure for 8 to 48 hours on a dry flat surface with good air circulation. The top of the refrigerator is a good place. Drying time varies, depending on the thickness of the paint and the humidity. The paint will dry transparent and lose its milky look. Do not try and speed up drying, i.e. with appliances such as hair dryers or fans. Both the paint and the leading must be air dried. (the warmer and dryer--the faster the drying).

6. Clean up: If you spill paint on clothing, furniture, etc., wash it off immediately using soap and water; do not allow to dry on clothes before attempts at cleaning.

Quick Reference Painting Tips:

Paint clog removal: If paint dries in bottle tip, use a paper towel to push tip to one side and remove it. Use the curved end of the metal combing tool to remove clog from the inside of the tip. Replace tip on bottle.

Light holes in corners of painted sections: can be eliminated by dabbing Liquid Leading over the hole. This method is less noticeable than re-coating the section with paint; or gently pull up the area of the modular design and cut out the paint within the leaded area; press lead down and paint area.

Applying Design to Window SurfaceWait for a dry day to complete your Window Color project. Rainy days and high humidity can cause problems. Even if your windows are dry to the touch, having too much moisture in the air can keep the paint from drying indefinitely, because moisture will get trapped under the paint. Surface should be clean, using a glass cleaner is recommended.

1. Gently peel the modular designs off the Leading Blank. If they do not peel up easily, they are not dry.

2. Using the lines you transferred on your window pane as a guide for placement, position the modular design elements on the window. Place larger elements on first and smaller elements such as leaves or stems next. Be careful not to stretch the modular designs or get the backs of them dirty or dusty. Press from the center outward to minimize trapped air. Excessive handling can keep the pieces from adhering properly. continue until all modular elements are in position.

3. Add Liquid Leading pre-cured strips to connect the modular designs and to connect the modular pieces to the edges of the surface or use Redi-Lead strips (see instructions for applying Redi-Lead).
4. Touch up any gaps where the leading strips and modular lead areas meet by squeezing small amounts of Liquid Leading where they join. Let dry thoroughly.

Applying Redi-Lead to Surface

Do not use Redi-Lead strips for modular designs created on Leading Blanks, as it will not peel up freely once paint is cured. Redi-Lead should only be used when applying strips directly to the surface of the project; i.e. borders or connecting lines.

1. Thoroughly clean and dry the window pane. Remove any smudges from applying modular pieces.
2. Peel up Redi-Lead strips and press adhesive side onto project surface along the marked lines, do not stretch the strips or handle more than necessary or they may not adhere properly. When a pattern line is longer than your strip, piece strips together end to end so that they meet. Trim intersecting lines with Gallery Glass Cutter or craft knife. Joints should be mitered to fit, if possible. Don't take one strip OVER another. Cut and fit all connections. Keep gaps to a minimum, but spot soldering should make all the joints disappear. If you see excess adhesive from strips on surface, use a piece of cellophane tape to remove, or wet the area with window cleaner and use cutter to scrape under the adhesive and lift it off.
3. Touch up all connecting points with Liquid Leading Let all Leading dry thoroughly before applying paint.

Painting the Background

Note: Do not shake Window Color paint or it will become too thin for vertical application.

1. Protect bottom edge of window sill surface by taping off with painter's or low tack masking tape; cover floor with newspaper.
2. For best results, start at a top corner of the design. Crystal Clear Window Color will give you the look of textured glass. Squeeze paint directly from bottle onto surface where you would like the look of textured glass. Run a thin line of paint across the top of the section, wiggling the tip back and forth as you move from left to right across the section. Repeat, moving side-to-side, moving gradually downward to the bottom of the section. Be sure to cover the corners and apply paint thick enough to block the light from showing through. However, applications that are too thick will begin to run, so use the tip of the bottle as the spreader to move it around. Don't squeeze out as much paint as you near the bottom of the section. Use the tip to pull it down and over the leading to prevent sliding. Be sure to paint up to and over the edge of all leading and perimeter of design elements to seal the finished design and avoid light holes. Do not comb Crystal Clear--leave it as bumpy as possible for maximum texture.
Painting with Gallery Glass Window Colors--other than Clear: Squeeze paint around the perimeter of the section and working from left to right, progressing top to bottom fill in the section. After you have applied paint to one section, hold the pointed end of the metal combing tool perpendicular to the glass and "comb" or stroke back and forth quickly in straight lines from lead line to lead line through the paint. This gives the paint a smooth grain and pops larger air bubbles. Do not over comb or paint will run. Wipe the tool clean between colors.
Etching Medium: This is used to create the look of etched or sand blasted glass. Brush on following instructions below. Do not apply to window directly from the bottle.
3. Window Color projects usually dry in 8 hours and cur in 3 to 7 days. Drying times may vary due to humidity, temperature and thickness of application. Allow window projects to cure out before cleaning.
To clean, spray a very light mist of window cleaner on a soft cloth and wipe the surface gently. Do not use an excessive amount of cleaner or spray directly on window. No abrasive cleaners or solvents.

Etching Medium Instructions

This paint creates the look of sandblasted etched glass. It is both applied and removed in a manner that is different from other Gallery Glass Window Color paints. Do not use in in the modular design elements as it will not peel up and stick onto glass surface. Do not squeeze from the bottle onto glass surface. Apply to glass surface after modular designs and leading have been completed.
1. First, remove the tip and use a metal combing tool or paint brush handle to stir the paint--thoroughly. It must be mixed with no floating liquid to work well. Squeeze a small amount of Etching Medium onto a disposable plate. With a soft bristled brush, dip into medium and pull over to a clean area of the plate, rolling off excess. Apply to glass surface very sparingly with a thorough pouncing motion so there is no pattern except a smooth matte covering. Spread out paint so that there are no wet areas.
Optional: You can brush Etching on areas of a finished window to create a matte finish, rather than a glossy one. Apply to modular pieces only after they have been placed in their final position.
2. Clean up brush with warm water and liquid soap. Do not use a wet brush for applying Etching Medium, always start with a dry one.
3. Removal: Etching Medium will not peel up from glass like other Gallery Glass paints. To remove it, spray etched area with window cleaner and use a razor window scraper to carefully lift off paint. Etching can only be removed from glass --not from plastics.

Removal of One Section or the Entire Design

To remove a painted section on glass surface, score inside of lead line using a craft knife. Use the curved end of the metal combing tool to peel up the corner of the scored area and pull out. Re-paint area.
To remove the entire window design start in one corner and use a craft knife to score around the perimeter of the entire design. Paint and Liquid leading will peel off the glass. (treat and remove Etched areas, as above). Use window cleaner and a craft knife or razor window scraper to remove any excess paint, leading or etching from glass. Be careful not to scratch glass with tools.

A Bouquet of Roses for YOU-- from Gallery Glass Class

2012-02-23T07:00:00.000-08:00

A bouquet of roses has long been considered the ultimate gift. And the prices escalate to unbelievable sums just prior to a big holiday. So I decided to save my money and go for a rose of a more lasting variety-- Gallery Glass roses on 6'x9" ovals. We posted these two designs back in January, but I decided that they were worth another visit so that we could focus on color combinations. Roses come in hundreds of colors. So you can find a real rose to match almost all the Gallery Glass hues.

I prefer to paint a 3 color rose applying a shading color, a blending color and a highlighting color to all the petals. Truthfully, these roses are gifts for a wonderful group of single friends that I worship with every Sunday morning, so this project had an ulterior motive. I don't think I've ever done so many variations of just two designs--but it turned out to be really fun. I have painted every night this week. Since I wanted the panels to be somewhat consistent, I highlighted all the petals and filled in all the borders with Hologram Glitter, but you may want to change it up for an occasion less dramatic. Here are the shading and blending colors that I used. Kelly Green and Green Shimmer were used for the leaves and a sky color that I mixed from a few drops of Turquoise in Clear Shimmer was mixed for the background. Some turned out better than others. What is your favorite color?

Shading Color                 Blending Color          Highlight Color - Hologram Glitter on All Panels

Top Row (left to right):
16020 Amber                  16003 Sunny Yellow
16023 Berry Red             16015 Ruby Red
16014 Magenta Royale     16423 Hot Pink
16457 Plum                      16014 Amethyst

Bottom Row (left to right):
16005 Orange Poppy       16429 Pumpkin Orange
16437 Coral                     16006 Canyon Coral
16018 Charcoal                16021 White Pearl
16429 Pumpkin Orange     16455 Sunflower

Valentine Jar Designs with Gallery Glass

2012-02-07T03:30:00.000-08:00

I love Valentine's Day because it's all about flowers and candy. I never met a candy bar I didn't like, be it chocolate, sugar or marshmallow. And what better way to give candy as a gift than in an appropriately styled container made just for the occasion. These Valentine jars are elegant looking, but simple and easy to make. You can find so many beautiful clear shapes for practically nothing because glass is cheap. My favorite "surface" source is one of those stores where everything is a dollar.

The big rose jar in the center was done by the Horizontal Method--meaning it was leaded and painted right on the jar--easy to do because it is rather large, creating an almost flat surface. First bubble cut around the pattern leaving almost no margin. Then roll it up and stick it face up inside the jar. Center it so that the jar seam is on the side. Lead the design as usual, using books on both side to keep it from rolling while your leading is wet. Let the leading dry overnight and paint some pleasing "rose" colors in a couple of various shades, giving the design a more sophisticated look. Now wasn't that easy. The other jars in the photo were done as Clings and placed on the clean jar after they had cured. For detailed instructions for making Clings, check "Snow Fun" under Winter projects. .
But maybe you don't have time to go out and buy something, look around your kitchen. If you save pleasingly shaped jars that food comes in, you can often cover the thread lines on the top with lace, ribbon or fabric. And what about the ones that have printed lids? You can cover them with fabric and a coordinating ribbon.

These are great patterns for jars. The large jar and the pitcher can be done directly on the jar because they are bigger. The smaller ones will be easier to do as Clings, then place them where you want them on the project. See post "Snow Fun" for Cling instructions.
Supplies list:
16001 Crystal Clear, 16002 Snow White, 16003 Cameo Ivory, 16004 Sunny Yellow, 16006 Canyon Coral (disc. use 16003), 16008 Kelly Green, 16009 Emerald Green, 16011 Blue Diamond, 16012 Royal Blue, 16015 Ruby Red, 16016 Rose Quartz, 16017 Magenta Royale, 16019 Gold Sparkle, 16020 Iridescent Violet (disc. use Hologram Shimmer 16848.), 16021 Frost White

These are great patterns for jars. The large jar and the pitcher can be done directly on the jar because they are bigger. The smaller ones will be easier to do as Clings, then place them where you want them on the project. See post "Snow Fun" for Cling instructions.
Supplies list:
16001 Crystal Clear, 16002 Snow White, 16003 Cameo Ivory, 16004 Sunny Yellow, 16006 Canyon Coral (disc. use 16003), 16008 Kelly Green, 16009 Emerald Green, 16011 Blue Diamond, 16012 Royal Blue, 16015 Ruby Red, 16016 Rose Quartz, 16017 Magenta Royale, 16019 Gold Sparkle, 16020 Iridescent Violet (disc. use Hologram Shimmer 16848.), 16021 Frost White

Hearts -- Framed and Wired with Gallery Glass

2012-02-05T02:36:00.000-08:00

"Framed" and "wired" are two words with bad connotations-- unless we're talking about them in a Gallery Glass context. It's easy to make mobiles and free floating ornaments using Cuttable Plastic and wire. If you can't find cuttable plastic, you can also use leading blanks for the shapes--they just won't be quite as rigid or transparent. The wire is Armature Wire and is available at craft stores. Lead and paint the shapes and let them dry. Cut around the cured shapes leaving 1/8" of space outside the outlines. Cut lengths of wire and curl loosely around a pencil. Stretch wire slightly. Make a hole in the edges of the plastic shapes and string them up! See patterns for more details.

Colorful glass panels or Clings hanging in a window add brightness and life to home decor. The colors are at their best with light coming through them, so hanging a piece of glass art in a window is the perfect place to show off its beauty. Framed panels can also be a substitute for curtains because they bend the rays of light and create a sunscreen--if they are large enough. These three hearts are a good project for a styrene ceiling diffuser. They are easily scored on the smooth side and popped into the size to fit a small elongated frame. Always paint on the smooth side so that the color will be even, not blotchy.

This 11"x14" picture frame takes on a whole new life when you throw away that faded floral print and outline and paint this "Funky Heart" on the glass. Remove glass from frame. Position it over pattern and outline the design. Let dry and apply colors as shown, or create your own color palette. Fill in around the design with Crystal Clear leaving it very bumpy. Place glass or plastic into frame and secure it using Liquid Leading as a "caulk" between the edge of the glass and the back side of the frame. Let caulking dry overnight before standing upright.

If you can't wait to get started, print out the patterns and select your surfaces. In a couple of days, you'll be able to give one of these heartfelt treasures to your favorite Valentine.

Supplies needed for Hugs and Kisses Mobile:
16003 Cameo Ivory, 16001 Crystal Clear, 16015 Ruby Red, 16002 Snow White, 16079 Gold Metallic Liquid Leading (heart and O's), 16080 Silver Metallic Liquid Leading (wings and X's), 16240 Cuttable Plastic, 16225 Tool Set.
Other Supplies: Armature Wire, Needlenose pliers, Wire cutters, Craft knife with blades, Scissors, pencil.

Supplies needed for Funky Heart Framed Art:
16001 Crystal Clear, 16035 Lime Green, 16015 Ruby Red, 16037 Sapphire, 16004 Sunny Yellow, 16076 Black Liquid Leading, 16225 Tool Set,
Other Supplies: Wooden frame with glass, 11"x14"

Supplies needed for Three Hearts Framed Art"
16014 Amethyst, 16081 Crystal Clear, 16009 Emerald Green, 16005 Orange Poppy, 16012 Royal Blue, 16015 Ruby Red, 16004 Sunny Yellow, 16076 Liquid Leading or 16089 Redi-Lead Strips, 16224 Tool Set
Other Supplies: Wooden frame with glass, 8"x20", Craft knife (for cutting Redi-lead

Supplies needed for Love Mobile:
16001 Crystal Clear; 16423 Hot Pink, 16438 Magenta Rose, 16455 Sunflower, 16076 Lquid Leading, 16782 Crystal Beads (discontinued), 16240 Cuttable Craft Plastic, 16225 Tool Set
Other Supplies: Craft wire, pink and yellow pony beads, other beads as desired.

Janice Nipper Creates Gallery Glass Window Treatments

2012-02-01T06:26:00.000-08:00

You may remember Janice Nipper from the beautiful rooster patterns that she shared with us in a post from last week. I invited her to send some more pictures of her work and I'm blown away by her creative ideas, but first let's look at her overall window covering. I'm assuming that the covering is an insert. Here's what she says about the project.

"This is the last window that I finished. It can actually be used anytime although Summer would probably be the best time. I just suddenly had an idea one day to make a frame that would cover the entire window and this is the result. My next full frame will be one for Christmas. I'm thinking about using holly leaves to make a wreath with lots of sparkly ornaments."

So this is really great, right? Now let's see what other magic creative INNOVATIVE ideas she has for us.

"I decided that I liked the idea of using a stained glass panel instead of a valance on my kitchen window. I have been working on having several different panel--hopefully one for each season. These are the ones I have now, starting with Valentine's Day. And since my kitchen wallpaper has hearts--this also works any time."

"Then on to St. Patrick's Day, which since we are in Dublin, it is a big deal here."

"Now, for Easter. I think this is my favorite of all time. I made the pattern from a couple of pictures that I had and added my own details."

"Here is my July 4th picture."

"My summer picture is my daughter's favorite because she loves Sunflowers."

"I also have one for Fall with falling leaves."

"To finish up the year, look at Thanksgiving and Christmas."

"Some of the colors in my Christmas window are the Crystal Finish paints by Jurgen Industries."

wow, Wow, WOW! I really love these valances. In case, you're unsure of what a valance is--it's a short curtain at the top of the window--usually made of sheared cloth on a rod. Janice certainly improved on that idea. I also love the fact that she is doing all of this for her kitchen window because what woman doesn't spend the more time in front of that--than any other in the house. Thank you, Janice, for taking the time to share your ideas with us. You are a creative, innovative lady with our favorite paint. PLEASE send us more of your fabulous projects.

(New post) Janice is willing to share a few of her secrets with us. Here's more information on her techniques.

"I have always loved stained glass and when a lady at our church offered a stained glass painting class, I was the first to register. I have tried doing the cut stained glass, but I don't have the strength in my hands to do the cutting. BESIDES, I love being able to swirl in my own colors."

"Since Bradford asked how my panels are attached, I took a couple of pictures of the one that is up now. To hang the panels I use Command hooks at the top and bottom. The full rooster panel exactly fits in the window frame and doesn't need anything to hold it in place."

"I am attaching a picture of my paint color sampler. Since the colors don't look the same when wet, I wanted a way to know exactly how the color would look dry. I have mine in numerical order as this makes it easier to find the color and put it back where it belongs. You can also see how I have my paints stored. I made the

slotted holders with a rod pocket across the top and I hang them on dowels in a rolling cart. I paint on a round glass-topped patio table with a lamp under it --that is sitting in my living room so that I can see the TV while I'm painting."

I love it, Janice! I know that you have offered some solutions to problems that we all have at one time or another. I love your cart with the bottles stored upside down. This is one way to eliminate some of the bubbles and make sure you get ALL of the paint out of the bottles. Good idea. Keep painting and sending us pictures of your work.

Say, "I Love You" with Gallery Glass

2012-01-31T03:46:00.000-08:00

St. Valentine's Day is almost upon us and you may be searching for the perfect gift--something that will be a lasting reminder of your love and devotion. Candy is quickly eaten and flowers wilt and fade, but your Gallery Glass heart will be a visible daily reminder of your lifelong passion. Add to this token of your love a dinner reservation and movie tickets complete with popcorn, and you have successfully executed a Gallery Glass moment. I painted this with Ruby Red, of course, but I outlined the segments with Hologram Glitter then filled in the center with the color. I did the same thing on the Hot Pink "lace". The Gold Glitter caption completes it for a very elegant festive look.

But what if you aren't giving the gift until the exact day. Sometimes you don't want to give a gift that is seasonally specific when the season will be over tomorrow. How about a Floral suncatcher that is seasonally appropriate? The unsung hero of winter, the only flower with a heart brave enough to peek out of earth that just yesterday had snow on it--the humble crocus. How noble and breathtakingly beautiful. This is one of my favorite panels because it heralds the beginning of a fresh new season of brightly colored landscaping. Why not present your "love" with something that will cheer them up for many weeks to come. It can brighten a window view that will remain colorless for several more months.

And maybe your recipient is not into flowers or mushy Valentine symbols. There is certainly room for a gift that says, "I love you," but appeals more to their hobby and activities interest. How about a precious toe dancing bear complete with ballet shoes and a tutu. What little girl wouldn't love to hang this lovely suncatcher in their room?

Ballerina - 6"x9" Oval

Gallery Glass Supplies: 16002 Snow White, 16423 Hot Pink, 16017 Magenta Royale, 16014 Amethyst, 16081 Crystal Clear, 16076 Black Liquid Leading, 16215 10" Styrene Blank

I Love You Heart - 10" Round
Gallery Glass Supplies: 16440 Gold Glitter, 16423 Hot Pink, 16015 Ruby Red, 16002 Snow White, 16442 Hologram Glitter, 16076 Black Liquid Leading, 16216 10" Styrene Blank

I outlined the heart sections and even put a drop of 16442 in the top of each of the lace sections and combed it into the paint to give the heart a little style.

Crocus - 10" Round

Gallery Glass Supplies: 16423 Hot Pink, 16442 Hologram Glitter, 16017 Magenta Royale, 16455 Sunflower, 16020 Amber, 16003 Cameo Ivory, 16008 Kelly Green, 16035 Lime Green, 16024 Ivy Green, 16014 Amethyst, 16457 Plum, 16081 Crystal Clear16076 Black Liquid Leading, 16216 10" Styrene Blank

I applied a line of Hologram Glitter along the edge of the petal sections and combed it into the paint to give the flowers some sparkle. It almost looks like dew on the tips of the flowers.

More Gallery Glass Roosters from Janice

2012-01-30T04:41:00.000-08:00

Many thanks to our reader, Janice, who heard our plea for rooster patterns. Luckily for us, she has an extensive resource file and took the time to share the roosters with us! She is also a Gallery Glass Artist and forwarded an image of her kitchen cabinet doors. It's a familiar rooster, but notice the use of the snow white paint as a background rather than Crystal Clear. This technique assures privacy for what you choose to store INSIDE the cabinets. I hope you enjoy the rooster patterns and I've invited Janice to share more of her beautiful work with us.

Here are 2 good responses for the rooster AND barn that out reader was looking for:

Janice also forwarded us a number of colorful round designs.

And finally, here are a couple of other shapes. These are so awesome, Janice. You even have me wanting to paint a rooster!

It's time for Love, Hearts and Flowers!

2012-01-24T07:00:00.000-08:00

It's not yet Spring, but once we put up the colorful Valentine's Day decorations, we begin to look forward to it with wild anticipation. I have always been an advocate of the holiday, although my participation is often limited to scouting out the prettiest, calorie laden goodies I can find for my grand daughters. I love to start hanging Valentine projects soon after the middle of January so that there will be ample time to enjoy the decorations and binge on Valentine treats.

I love to make Valentine Clings and we have a some projects coming up that feature this versatile category. Here the simple "LOVE" message is shown on a window, but you can stick them on mirrors, even car windows, to remind your loved ones that you care. And how about putting them on those inexpensive clear plastic plates from the party store. They have several sizes and this style is really inexpensive. I like the large one for all my round designs, since the 10" blank has been discontinued in many stores. We made an apple for the teacher on our dessert plate. You can burn a hole in the top and put a piece of curling ribbon or satin ribbon through it to make a hanger. I use a sticky tab with a hole because I happen to have access to a lot of them, but they aren't as pretty as the ribbon treatment.

Frosty the Snowman and Cozy Friend

2012-01-15T06:41:00.000-08:00

I love the idea of a snowman coming to life and dancing down the streets of the village. It probably isn't going to happen in Georgia--neither is a Perky Penguin going to waddle through the intersection. But isn't it fun to think about that happening. Especially in the dead of winter when the decorations are all put away and the family settles in for a long Winter indoors. That's why the colorful suncatchers can bring so much cheer to the view out the windows. I think snow scenes and bundled up characters are especially treasured by those in the South who only see snow occasionally. It's a much more romantic concept below the Mason Dixon line than for those who live around major lakes and have to shovel the fluffy stuff every couple of days.

Those are the people who like to put up Suncatchers of Palm Trees and tropical sunsets to warm up their shivering bones. Can't blame you for that. Have fun with these. Stay warm and dry.

Gallery Glass Suncatchers serve dual purpose

2012-01-15T03:33:00.000-08:00

Who doesn't love pictures of their family--two legged or four legged--it doesn't matter. Everyone loves to frame snapshots and spread them around their home. My close relatives smile at me in almost every room and I am especially fond of seasonal family pictures displayed in the windows. They add a unique touch to comprehensive accessorizing. Once you hang the hook, you can change the Suncatcher (and the smiling folks) to coordinate with the current weather--maybe daisies for Spring? Get the idea? We will be having lots of picture framing Suncatchers in the future, but for the record, this is first set. So, you haven't missed anything, so far.

The Snowflake is easy to lead and paint. I did it in blue because it is non-Christmas colors and I was so ready to ditch the red and green theme. But you can do a snowflake in any color. If it is a frame for a younger person, think about using the primary colors--bright and cheerful. This is the time of year that I use the most Hologram Shimmer. It lends the most wonderful glimering snow-like effect. I used it for the background on both of these projects. You can coordinate the color scheme of these two frames and display them together. However, just a tip for you, make sure the people in the photos are bundled up.
How does the Suncatcher become a picture frame? Easy, lead and paint the Suncatcher to coordinate with the color palette of the picture you wish to feature. In the example, the blues were picked because the center person's suit is two shades of blue. Print a copy of the picture. Now hold the finished Suncatcher up to the window and trace the outline of the center area onto a piece of copy paper. Cut out the shape that you have traced and use it as the pattern to trim the picture--making sure that the people are centered in the design shape. Now turn the Suncatcher over and tape the trimmed picture to the back of the Suncatcher with thin slivers of invisible tape, so that it won't show when placed in the window. You can hang it from a suction cup. Tip: tie a coordinating color of bow around the hanger tab, before it goes onto the hook. Be sure to store the Suncatcher when Spring comes so you can pull it out and update the "snow scene" for next Winter. And don't forget-- a picture frame Suncatcher makes a great gift for Grandma.

Mastering the Tape Tip for detailed Gallery Glass Paintings

2012-01-10T10:51:00.000-08:00

I have been getting comments readers that say things like, "Leading is so hard. The bottles are hard to squeeze. I don't have enough strength to lead. I get too many air bubbles." As most of you know, I always recommend the Tape Tip to those people.

I consider the Tape Tip so essential to happy Gallery Glass crafting that I am on a mission to update and expand the instructions until every last one of you, emails me and says, "Yes, I can lead, now--and it's FUN!"

Preparing the Tip: First, remove the seal from inside the tip, replace the tip and use a craft knife to CUT the end off the end of the Gallery Glass tip. Cut down about 1/4" from the top, but don't cut past the ridge that holds the small clear cap on the bottle. (Just be sure to cut away the thick plastic at the very end of the tip.) This tip can be used over and over again. Clean it out and add new tape to the tip every time you begin a new leading project. You can move this "altered" tip from bottle to bottle--as you move on to other leading projects.

Step One - Position the tape: Pull off a 3 1/2" strip of 3/4" wide cellophane tape (Scotch 3/4" Magic Tape #810 is good). Place the left edge of the tape at an angle starting at the center of the tip (see diagram 1). Press the tape to the tip as you rotate the bottle, securing the first turn of the tape all the way to the end of the tip to prevent leakage. (This is very important, tape must be TIGHT at the end of the tip for the next step to "turn" correctly. You may need to pull and stretch it slightly for the hole to be small enough and for it to begin the turn in the next step.)

The angle shown will give you a small bead. If you wish to increase the size of the bead of leading--increase the angle to the RIGHT! Be sure to leave the bottom of the tape positioned right in the very center of the tip as shown in the illustration, but move the TOP of the tape to the right, as needed. I will sometimes un-wind and re-wind a piece of tape several times until the hole is exactly the size I want the bead to be. Experience will tell you which size hole works best for the intricacy of your design. The more intricate designs require a smaller bead in order to preserve that intricacy.

Step 2 - Forming the Cone: As you turn the bottle in your left hand, and adhere the tape tightly with your right, the tape will form a cone *see diagram 2). Press tape to the cap firmly at the TOP as the tape changes direction to make the hole firm and secure. If the tape is loose, and doesn't turn--unwind and start again. Continue turning the bottle in your left hand and adhering the tape to previous layers with your right. This is the time to check the size of the hole you have made. Make adjustments if it is too small or too large. Un-wind and adjust the ANGLE (see step 1). Remember: right makes it larger, left makes it smaller.

Step 3 - Reversing directions and reinforcing the tip: If the previous steps have been done correctly, the tape will reverse directions and wind back down--reinforcing the tape tip. Continue to turn the bottle in your left hand and allow tape to wind down. Keep it tight. Press any extra tape over the side of the tip to make a "tab" for easy removal later. Hole size can be further adjusted at this point. If the hole is too small but the tip is good, snip the cone 1/8" down to make a larger hole, although you shouldn't have to do this if you have adjusted the ANGLE of the tape correctly in step 1.

Okay, so how does it feel? If the tip is sturdy and well-made, it should last throughout your entire leading project. If you have to stop the process and come back to it at a later time, always start with a freshly wound tape tip!

Now I'd like to share some of my other tips and techniques about the Leading process and how to make it MORE FUN!

With this next technique, you can save money AND almost totally eliminate the "plops" of unexpected air that are the primary complaint of Gallery Glass artists--worldwide.

There are 3 sizes of Liquid Leading. The 2 oz. bottle is a good size for kits, but not as economical as the 8 oz. size. The 4 oz. bottle is made from a softer plastic than the other two bottles--because it is purchased ONLY for Liquid Leading. It is the most popular size because it fits the hand better and is easier to squeeze. I use the same 4 oz. bottle over and over because I can fill it from the 8 oz. bottle (saving money).

Cut off the tip of the 8 oz. bottle above the ridge (see Preparing the Tip-- above) and squeeze the leading into the 4 oz. bottle from the shortened tip. Continue to re-fill the 4 oz. bottle until all the leading is emptied from the larger size. Now you are ready to make your tape tip on the 4 oz. bottle and lead your project. The reason this method eliminates air bubbles and makes the leading flow better is because it softens and thins the leading as it is squeezed through the tip into the smaller bottle. The way this works is almost MAGICAL, and I don't know about you, but I need all the help I can get when I'm leading.

Please let me know about the problems you encounter as you try to master the techniques that I have explained above. The Tape Tip effectively controls the flow of the Leading, gives you an infinite variety of bead sizes, and makes the leading easier to squeeze out of the bottle.

What's NOT to like? Let me hear from you.

Help me find the Gallery Glass Rooster pattern!

2012-01-06T02:47:00.000-08:00

Thanks to Bradford for looking through all his books. He found this beautiful rooster in one of our old QVC kits. I had forgotten about it. And he was kind enough to send the pattern so that our reader can make it if he likes it. Bradford, you're the greatest!

Previous post: I just received this question from one of our readers. I can't place the pattern, although I probably have the book in the Archives if one of you can help me find what book it is in.

Here's the question:
"I have misplaced a rooster pattern suncatcher that I believe was featured in one of your pattern books. I can't remember where I saw it. As I recall it was a barn scene with a rooster in the foreground. Richly colored. I made it for a friend but now I can't find the pattern. I know this description is sketchy but I was hoping that you might know where I can locate the pattern or the book it was featured in."

My email is csmith@plaidonline.com. If you know this pattern shout it out and I will post it.

Here are two designs that I have found so far--not suncatchers and no barn, but A for effort, right?

This is a rooster that I found. It is created more in the abstract style of design. I am including the pattern so that you can enlarge it to fit your favorite project.

These roosters were made to fit my butler's pantry doors for one of the One Stroke inspired Gallery Glass books. I wish Jan Cumber had made enough panels to fit all 6 doors. Unfortunately, the 2 were done just for photography. They are gorgeous. I love the fact that they are relatively opaque, so that they hide the plates and glasses that are stored in the cabinets. If you want the pattern, I can scan and add it to the post.

Thanks Evelyn Fischer for this information: the rooster pattern above appeared also in a Plaid Book--Windows, Glass Decor & More by Jan Cumber and Designs Inspired by Donna Dewberry.

Larra and Madison give Gallery Glass!

2012-01-04T10:37:00.000-08:00

I would like to introduce the work of two new friends of Gallery Glass. Larra and Madison live near Silver Spring, MD and wish to share their wonderful creative holiday project. I love that Larra let Maddie draw her own designs. That does wonders for artistic confidence. Sometimes we can severely micro-manage when it comes to doing crafts with kids. Larra has found a perfect project--one that doesn't require a lot of input from her--except the pesky leading. Believe it or not--Leading can become a favorite sport. My 7 and 10 year old granddaughters would rather lead than paint. Perhaps it is because it's what they seeing me doing most of the time. I lead--so that other people can discover the wonders of painting. I love the idea of the circle Clings in the CD case. This idea would work with Spring blossoms, just as well. Here is Larra's story in her words.

"I am a huge fan of Gallery Glass! Here are a couple of projects I've done...The first is my Christmas project - my little one and I created these as gifts for all of her family. Madison, who is 8, drew her own designs on circles I made, then I did the leading and she and I filled in the colors together. She chose all the colors and having done so, has learned how they work really well. I can't wait to make another batch with her and see what she'll do differently. She was so proud to hand them out on Christmas. We put each one in its own clear CD jewel case, which made them easy to wrap and easy to store!

The second is the window in my mom's nursing home. My niece Angela and I created random flowers and birds and created a "garden" for her view. The photo doesn't do it justice, it's really beautiful in person."

Larra's Mom is lucky to have such colorful motifs to add to her view, which is pretty great already. I can just imagine how much color is added when the sun shines in--and maybe even more impact when the outlook is gloomy. For people who spend a lot of time in bed, a window garden can be a real blessing. Thanks, Larra, for sharing both of these great ideas with us. Keep up the creative discovery process with Madison and your niece and don't forget to send more pictures!

Snow Fun is So Fun!

2012-01-03T04:33:00.000-08:00

Gallery Glass Clings are generally intended to be independent Suncatchers that you make on a horizontal surface, peel off and mount on a vertical surface. However, if you make a series of related suncatchers, you can mount them on a window that looks like you did it flat. This use of Clings is called the Modular Method. We haven't done many posts in the Modular Method category, and this post may be your first introduction to the technique. You can either make the snowmen, trees and house to put them along the bottom of a window. Or you can tie them together with pre-cured Liquid Leading squeezed out to make lines-- or of course, you could use Redi Lead to connect them together. I dug into the Gallery Glass Archives and found this same set of Clings used in a window motif--with some helpful how-to photos. I decided to assemble a version of the window to display at Plaid during January so I added some playful snowmen. However, I think it would have been more colorful if I had used Teddy Bears, but it's too late for that. I also decided that it was best to give you all the information and let you decide where you wanted to start--and stop with Gallery Glass Clings.

Note: I left the captions under the pictures so that you can just scan the technique, but if you really decide to do a modular window, please read the instructions. There is a lot of shared experience in these paragraphs.

How to Make Clings
Gallery Glass Clings are easy and fun to make These are two simple steps to follow:
First, lead the designs with Liquid Leading.
Next, fill in the areas created by the lead borders with Gallery Glass paint.

Positioning Your Pattern
Choose a Cling design, draw your own design, or adapt one from another source such as a coloring book. Place the pattern under a GG Leading Blank with the smooth side up. Clings will not stick to the window, if make on the rough side of the Leading Blank.
Surface Alternative: Trace the designs for your project, cut them out, and tape them onto a piece of cardboard that will fit into a food storage bag. Make the Clings on the outside of the bag. Peel off and use the bag for new designs.

Outlining the Cling Design with Liquid Leading

Before you begin, protect your work surface with white or light color poster board,
Note: Decide if your Cling is too detailed for a 1/8" bead of leading from the bottle. You may need to use a Tape Tip. Instructions to create this narrower bead are given in this blog under the Leading Tips Category.

1. Prepare the Leading bottle: You bottle probably already has a hole, so remove the tip and remove the protective seal. Hold the bottle upside down and tap it firmly on a hard surface to force leading into the tip.
2. Practice leading: Reap step 3, then practice that technique on notebook paper. When you feel comfortable with the technique, begin leading your project.
3. The grip: Hold the inverted bottle in "broom handle" fashion in a vertical position. Do not rest your elbow on the work surface; it will inhibit your movement.
4. Making a bead: Squeeze the bottle. As the leading begins to flow, "anchor" (or touch) the leading to the surface where you want to begin the line. Apply even pressure and a uniform cord of leading will form. Raise the tip of the nozzle above your work surface before moving forward. The "cord" of leading will drape down onto the pattern line as you squeeze the bottle, following your pattern as you move forward. When you get near the end of your pattern line, stop squeezing and lower the tip to your work and allow the bead to intersect with previous lines. By stopping pressure BEFORE the end of the desired line, a bump of extra leading at the end--is prevented.
5. Drying: The leaded project must dry for at least 8 hours before adding paint--longer if conditions are humid.
6. Correcting mistakes: After the leading is dry, use your fingernail to pull up any unwanted leading and snip off or trim it away with small scissors. Lay the leading line that remains back on the Blank and press firmly in place. Do not use a craft knife on the Leading Blank.

Carol's Tips for Leading
Messy lines: Uniform lead lines are achieved by dispensing leading ABOVE the surface and by coordinating your pressure on the bottle with your forward movement. Practice on notebook paper until you have mastered this skill. I practice making lines and grapes until they look smooth and uniform.
Beginning Bumps: If your leading curls up around the bottle tip as you begin to squeeze, you are not "anchoring" the leading to the plastic soon enough or you need to wipe the tip with a paper towel before beginning the line.
Ending bumps: If tails or bumps occur at the end of a line of leading, stop squeezing sooner than you are--well before you reach the end of the line--and bring the tip down to allow the bead to end on the plastic or a a previously leaded line.

Painting the Cling with Gallery Glass Window Color (bottle in illustration is an older version of Window Color)
Note: Do not shake the bottles of paint unless they appear to have separated, because the paint will get thinner, making it difficult to apply to a vertical surface without running. However, it is fine to use on horizontal surfaces, regardless of the viscosity.

1. Remove the cap. Clean out any dried paint you see in the tip. You can push it to the side, easing it out of the bottle, remove the dried paint and replace the tip firmly into the bottle by snapping it into place.
2. Coloring: Begin adding paint into your leaded design by squeezing it around the perimeter of the leaded area, then fill in the center. (see photo)

Be sure to apply the paint up on the leading, using it as a bumper while you are applying the paint. Failure to do so will leave light holes or a lighter "halo" next to the leading. The paint up on the leading will not show when the Cling is cured. Add a generous amount of paint up to the top of the leading, but do not add so much that it sticks up above the leading. If the colored area is too thin, the cured Cling may tear during removal from the plastic. Use a nutpick or a toothpick to evenly distribute the paint in the section. (See photo)
3. Combing: To minimize bubbles, "streak" back and forth in the paint to smooth the texture and pop the bubbles. Be careful when combing on plastic bags.

4. Tapping: After combing, more bubbles may be popped by "tapping". Hold the Leading Blank or piece of cardboard firmly in your non-painting hand and tap directly under the combed section with a pencil, the acorn end of the nutpick or the inverted bowl of a teaspoon. If using plastic bag covered cardboard, tap more firmly. (See photo)
5. Clean-up: If you spill paint on clothing or another surface, wash it off immediately using soap and water; do not allow it to dry before removing it.
6. Drying: Allow the project to dry for 24 to 48 hours on a dry, flat surface with good air circulation, such as the top of the refrigerator. Drying time may vary depending on the thickness of the paint and the humidity. All cloudy areas must turn transparent before proceeding.

Removing the Cling
After the Cling has cured, it can be removed from your project surface (Leading Blank or Plastic Bag). Like magic, the leaded and painted design will peel up as one piece. The Cling can now be placed on a clean window or mirror where it sill adhere-- without addition glue or adhesive--until you wish to peel it off.

Carol's Painting Tips
Size: When designing your own Clings, limit the size to approximately 5"x5" for maximum durability.

Segmenting: Designs should be segmented so each color has a closed section. Add lines to your design where needed before the leading step. This step also adds to the look of real stained glass.

Holes: Small "light" holes in corners of painted sections can be eliminated by dabbing Liquid Leading over the hole. This method is less noticeable than re-coating the section with paint, or trying to patch just the gap with wet paint.

Changing a color: Change your mind, or someone put their finger in the wet paint? Wait until the Cling dries, remove the Cling from the Blank or plastic bag, and use small scissors to cut the paint as close as possible to the lead line and remove it. Place the Cling on project surface, press flat and apply more colors. Let the new color dry thoroughly.

Darkening a color: To intensify a color, you may apply more than one coat. Let each coat dry before applying the next.

Lightening a color: Paint may be lightened by mixing it with Crystal Clear before applying. Pour it into a foam cup and mix with a craft stick, then pour back into one of the bottles for application.

Cloudy look: All Gallery Glass paints have a milky appearance immediately after application, but they will be clearer whey dry. Some colors dry transparent (like Crystal Clear) and some dry translucent (like Snow White). Experience will show you which are more and less transparent.

Bubbles: Small air bubbles that are hidden under the surface during application can sometimes add to the realistic stained glass look. However. eliminate large bubbles for a more uniform coating either by using the tip of the bottle or a "pick" for popping. Be meticulous about Combing and Tapping. They are essential for a bubble free professional looking project.

Window Application, Removal & Storage
Window Application: Place the Cling on a clean window or mirror. Smooth the design from the center outward to avoid air bubbles. Note: Do not place Clings on moist windows that sweat in Winter.

Removal: To remove the Cling from a window, life the edge and pull gently. In cold weather, Clings may shatter if the glass is too cold. If it seems brittle or resists removal, warm it first with a hair dryer. In warm weather, the Cling can stretch during removal--wait until the glass is cool to remove it (like at night).

Reusing: If the Cling will not stick when reapplying, clean the back with a paper towel moistened with window cleaner before putting it on a completely clean window.

Storage: To store Clings, ideally place them on Leading blanks, press out any air bubbles and store in a plastic bag. Keep them cool and flat until ready to reapply. The bag is essential to keep the Clings flexible over time. Never store any Gallery Glass project in tissue paper, The paper fibers will adhere to the surface. However, paper fibers can sometimes be removed with a wet cloth and serious rubbing. Also, don't store in bubble wrap, the bubbles will leave bumps in the surface of the cling.

Making a Scene on a Window
You can use individual pre-made Clings connected together with lead strips to decorate a whole window for holidays or every day. Choose the Clings you wish to display. The pattern size for some elements of the design may need to be adjusted with a copy machine to keep "in scale". This must be done before leading and painting. Also make duplicates of the designs that will be used more than once in the completed scene --such as trees. Place the individual Clings in the desired location on the window.

Making Lead Lines for Window Scenes
1. To ensure smooth, straight leading, use a piece of notebook paper for a pattern. Place the smooth side of a Leading Blank over it. You may use plastic covered cardboard instead of a leading blank, as described earlier in this project.
2. Calculate the number of feet of leading you will need. Be sure to make enough lines to complete your project. You can usually get approximately 25' of leading on one Blank.
3. Prepare the bottle and hold it "broom handle" fashion in a vertical position. Do not rest your elbow on your work surface. (See earlier Leading Instructions and Tips for more information.)
4. Squeeze a line of leading down each line of the notebook paper. Don't worry about blotches or mistakes; they will trimmed off later. (see photo)
5. Let the leading dry thoroughly, at least 8 to 24 hours--longer if humidity is high.
6. Thoroughly clean your window with glass cleaner.

7. Peel up the cured lead strips. Use small scissors to trim any blotches or irregularities from the leading before applying them. Then press them onto the clean glass. Do not stretch the strips as you are applying them. Strips can be pieced together, if you have a pattern line longer than your strip, by putting them together end to end. Do not handle your strips more than necessary. Small gaps will be filled in later. Intersecting lines should be trimmed with small scissors so that they meet cleanly; do not overlap leading strips.
(see photo)
8. Connect strips to Clings as needed and continue on to the edge of the window. Make sure all the background is segmented with leak strips. Touch up any gaps by filling in with Liquid Leading squeezed from bottle onto glass. Let these gaps dry thoroughly before applying Gallery Glass paint.

Applying Gallery Glass Paint to Window Scenes
You may want to fill in the blank areas of your design with color. This is easy to do because Window Color can be applied to a vertical window surface. Note: Do not shake the paint. For best results, apply paint in one section at a time. The amount of paint you will need varies depending on the size and type of your project. For vertical application, allow one bottle for every square foot. (This quantity is approximate; coverage varies with depth of application.)

1. Start with a section at the top of the window and run a thin bead of paint across the top of the section, overlapping the lead line above it. Be sure to cover the corners. Squeeze gently and move the bottle side to side as you move downward. If the paint begins to run, you are applying too much. Use the tip of the bottle to spread it thinner. Use less paint towards the bottom of the section because it may slide downward. Always complete an entire section before beginning another section or taking a break. Be sure to paint to the edge of the section to avoid light holes. (see photo)

2. Comb the paint with a toothpick or nutpick. Hold the pick perpendicular to the glass. Start at the top of the section and streak back and forth in the paint from lead line to lead line until you reach the bottom of the section. This will smooth the bumps, pop the bubbles, and give a directional grain to the paint. Comb similar sections in the same direction. (see photo)

Removal of Scene from Window: If you wish to remove the decoration, you can save the Clings by scoring around them with a craft knife and pulling them from the window. Store them in the same manner described above. Also score the background from the window frame and peel off the entire painted area and the added leading strips.

This sheet is a little tilted, but hopefully, it allows you to print all the patterns on one sheet. If they print out on an 8 1/2" x 11", you should enlarge them to 129% --if you want them to be the same size as mine. I put these Clings on a 24"x36" poster frame. I know--that's cheating--but I didn't have a window to put it on and I wanted to complete the samples so that I could post it during the holidays. I'm sharing this so that you can get an idea of scale. Your window probably won't be the same shape or size, but the finished photo gives you an idea of how you can arrange the "hills" of snow. Print the sheet several times because you will need multiple trees and multiples of both snowflakes.
The numbers on the patterns are not the colors that I used for the sample, but you can choose you own colors. Here are the ones I used: (I shaded the tops of the snow segments with Hologram Glitter and the bottom of the segments with Bluebird. The middle was filled in with White Pearl combed in a swirly motion. Snowflakes are Hologram Glitter.
Supplies:
16076 Liquid Leading, 16004 Sunny Yellow, 16005 Orange Poppy, 16007 Cocoa Brown, 16008 Kelly Green, 16011 Blue Diamond, 16021 White Pearl, 16024 Ivy Green, 16081 Crystal Clear, 16441 Silver Glitter, 16442 Hologram Glitter, 16636 Autumn, 17054 Copper Metallic, 17072 Gilded Oak 17073 Bluebird.

Easy, Breezy Gallery Glass for Christmas

2011-12-22T04:01:00.000-08:00

Fabulous 10" RoundsHo, Ho, Ho! Santa is in the house. At least he will be when you complete this easy Santa head shot. It is a great design for kids to do as they wait for the anticipated "eve" to approach. The colors are traditional and most children pick this project as their favorite. Although the design is less detailed than I prefer, the subject matter can't be beaten. I often lead up all 3 round designs (Candle, Bells & Santa) and offer the artists a choice at holiday classes. That gives them a very pleasant dilemma--which one do I choose.

Try this candle as a warm up. It's quick and easy and makes a great gift (recurring theme of shopping network presentations). Once you get the supplies assembled, you can probably complete the whole project in about an hour of leading and painting. I often hang this piece with the Christmas Bells 10" Round because the colors and scale compliment each other.

At holiday time, bells often remind us of church services and family gatherings, and this piece certainly fulfills it's potential. Although it is an easy design, it will be admired by everyone that sees it. The colors are bright and cheerful--sure to bring joy to any heart that looks at them.

Wall Art or Window Art?

Bells are such a traditional holiday theme that it's hard to think of a new way to display them. But this round project has a lot of appeal--because of the carved detail on the bells and the opportunity to alternate the Silver Sparkle and the Silver Glitter. I know, I know--Silver Sparkle is discontinued and I have the only remaining bottle.
But did you know that you can make a similar color with White Pearl and Black Onyx. Shake them together in the bottle so that they are thoroughly mixed. I also used Red Glitter on the Bow--also discontinued, but you can mix Plaid's Red Extreme Glitter into Crystal Clear and get the same effect. Why would you want to go to all that trouble? Here's one reason.

People often ask me if you can hang Gallery Glass on the wall. Here is a good opportunity to do that. I used a number of Glitter colors in this piece. With the larger glitter chips, light is actually blocked so that the segments look "peppery" when strong light comes through it. So, the projects with glitter and sparkle paints look good against a wall because the chips reflect light. Notice how dark the Silver Sparkle looks because it doesn't let the light through. Look at the difference, and you be the judge. Better yet, make a project with lots of glitter paint and move it around because it will look good anywhere.

Four of the Easiest Christmas 6"x9" ovals

Sometimes you need something fast and easy--both to lead and to paint-- especially when you are hosting a party of young artists or the young at heart. These designs are classic subjects and good line design, but the spaces are large and paint up quickly.

I like to offer a variety of designs for the artists to choose from because you may have leftovers and the fast kids can complete 2 or more designs (which they will love to do). It helps that they all use about the same colors. The good thing about the Gingerbread House and the Snowman is that they can be used after Christmas. Soon we will be adding a lot of designs of January snow scenes, but these two designs can bridge the gap. I prepare designs for every week of the year, so the "bridge" designs between holidays are very important.

Christmas Clasics with Gallery Glass

2011-12-21T03:43:00.000-08:00

Best Tree Ever --24"x36" Poster Frame

'Tis the season to put up the best of the BEST. I have loved this Tree for 30 years and it will probably always be my favorite. There is so much to look at--you can study it for hours. Gingerbread boys, lighted candles, poinsettias, golden bells, holly with berries, spruce fronds, metallic ornaments, seasonal fruit, a stocking with candy cane and even a doll. The only thing that's missing is light--and the sun provides that very nicely. Add a metallic bucket and some Hologram snowflakes and you've got a winning combination. It's definitely not a beginner project and a perfect candidate for the Tape Tip Leading Technique (see category for details), but you've got to love the fact that the poster frame costs less than $20 at Michael's and it is reusable. Don't even consider anything smaller.You're NOT going to love the fact that I can't bring myself to color code it. The pattern is available in the Patterns category-along with color placement instructions (a new thing I just invented). You can add the background "window panes" once you have selected the project frame. Just make sure they are of equal size. Extend the lines through the spacey areas at the bottom of the tree. Set it in the window and wait for the oooohs and ahhhhhhhs!

Santa Claus is coming to town in an 18"x24" Poster Frame

Who doesn't want a big bold beautiful Santa on their window? I have always loved the detail of his design, from the stitches on his pack to the jingle bells on his boots. He's gorgeous. Just make sure you have a new bottle of GG 16850 Ruby Red Shimmer for his velvet suit and a full bottle of 16851 Green Shimmer for his pack. They are my favorite colors at holiday time and if you can't find them, try --plaidonline.com.
Have I told you lately how much I love Dover Clip Art Books. I have gotten on a roll this season from one of their Books that I've had for over 30 years. But the good news is, it is still in print. It is Ready-to-Use Christmas Designs--ISBN - 0-486-23900-4 (doverpublications.com). Most of the elaborate designs that you have seen on my blog since Thanksgiving are from that book. I found it again over the holidays and can't stop interpreting the designs into Gallery Glass onto my new great love Poster Frames. They are a winning combination. By the way, they have a clip art book on almost every subject you can imagine, so save your holiday money and splurge. Remember, as an artist--you're only as good as your resource file!

Erupting Euphonium - 12x18" Poster Frame

I'll bet you thought it was a Flugelhorn! So did I, but I looked it up. Nevertheless, it is awesome. It must be Santa's Euphonium because toys are flying out of it. I took the opportunity to differentiate the carving detail with Gold Sparkle, Gold Glitter and Sunny Yellow. The combination makes a beautiful brass effect with very little effort. 12"x18" is a good size for this design. The toy detail isn't too small to lead easily with a tape tip. (Are you proficient at making one, yet?) Just checking.
The poster frame is so convenient to use. The styrene comes in the frame. I also have been mounting them with 2 large suction cups. You can put it on a window, anywhere without any hooks or wires. The lightweight frame is not too heavy and hasn't fallen off, so far. I just love it when projects are simple and easy. I got this poster frame on sale (BOGO) at Michael's. Wow, I laid awake thinking what a good deal that was and went back the next day to stock up. They make great gifts-- painted with Gallery Glass. You're going to be seeing a lot of them in the next few months on this blog because I have a garage full.

Ultimate Holiday Wreath - 18"x24" Poster Frame

So you have two windows and you need a companion piece for the Candles (see below). That's my situation, so I was motivated to find a design that would use the same color palette and a subject matter that would complement the other project without being--more candles. Besides fruit CAKE, a fruit WREATH is about as traditional as you can get. I was lucky enough to find a clip art motif that was blooming with luscious edibles. Though not a beginner project, it can be done by an intermediate who has mastered the Tape Tip Leading Technique (posted under Leading Tips). The shading is a little more delicate because you want the fruit to be highlighted in a realistic manner. But otherwise, it's a simple 2 step project--outline and paint. Check out the Patterns and Color Keys category to the right of the page for the complete pattern and detailed painting instructions.

Christmas Candles on 18"x24" Poster Frame

The end of the year holidays are my very favorite decorating opportunities. Why? Because we get to use so much glitter! That, and the color scheme is almost as bright and colorful as Pre-school artwork. We're going to go crazy with Gallery Glass designs before the end of this season, but I thought it fitting to start with one of my all time favorites. These candles have intricate detail and the illusion of carving created by the two shades of opalescence. The aura around the candles looks like rays emanating from the flame because I pulled the Hologram Glitter paint out from the Sunny Yellow in lines, leaving space in between them so that they wouldn't run together. The beautiful bow is made to look more dimensional by shading the Ruby Red with Berry Wine. And after the reds dry, squeeze a line of Hologram glitter along the edge of each section for that high end ribbon look. Other than these two special (but, easy) techniques, the painting is simple, just fill in the colors.
If you haven't discovered the Poster Frame aisle at your local craft store (I got this one at Michael's), you need to schedule a trip. The first good thing about them is that the molding is light weight (for easy hanging)and they come in a variety of standard sizes. The second good thing is that they come with the pre-cut styrene already in them, instead of glass--another plus, especially for shipping to mom and the gang. The third good thing is the price (we like it). They are much less expensive than buying standard frames with glass. Look to the right of this page under Project Categories - Patterns and Color Keys for the pattern and supplies list. You can blow the pattern up to any size, however, it is too detailed for anything smaller than a 16"x20".
Now, let's talk about the gratification factor. The design is elegant and impressive, without being difficult. The toughest part will be the outlining the pattern--definitely an opportunity to wind a Tape Tip on the Liquid Leading bottle. Take your time, the compliments are going to be worth it.

Laurie shares a Gallery Glass Nativity Scene

2011-12-20T03:49:00.000-08:00

Our friend, Laurie Morris, has designed a perfectly marvelous "Cling" which is an excellent way to hang a Nativity Scene on a patio door or double hung window near the tree and stockings. I love the modern look of the stable supports. It is a beautiful interpretation of the Christmas story and she got the idea from a picture of a real stained glass piece. (Anything they can do--we can do better!) Great job, Laurie, thank you for sharing the idea with us.

And since Laurie brought up the subject, I thought we should re-cap some of the Nativity concepts we have explored in the past. Lest we forget...............

Making the Project fit the Frame
I wanted to create a special gift but my problem was framing! The unusual length of the piece made it impossible to find a non-custom frame that would work. I first took a picture of the original and printed it out. Then I calculated the ratio, (length divided by the height as 2.2). I knew that my poster frame had a 1.5 ratio so I stretched the vertical measurement on my copier with the "Copy Ratio--X/Y Zoom" feature until the image matched the 1.5 ratio. Then I enlarged the image to full size--leaded and painted it. It worked pretty well, except that the people look rather tall and skinny. I loved painting this scene because the Wise Men colors are so vibrant and because I got to use all the specialty paints--glitters and sparkles.

This is a trick that I use quite frequently when I have a surface that is a specific size and the artwork isn't the right proportion to enlarge--as is (like when you're doing your window). It will usually work without distorting the design too much. Most artists would consider THIS a drastic change, but the kids will never know the difference. They will just enjoy looking at it. I have never seen a Bethlehem scene handled with such imagination. I love the grown-up faces and the friendly sheep--the smart looking Wise Men and the humble shepherd--the arrogant camel and the sweet faced donkey. I even like the look of the town behind them and the plunky palm trees. Notice the way the creche frames the whole group. There is so much detail, you can study it for weeks--all the way to Christmas and not get tired of it. And all of this is accomplished within a segmented design created with leading and paint. Amazing!

On the other hand, not everyone wants to spend endless hours on a project. There are design levels to fit every one's taste. This is a triptych design from an old Plaid book that tells a story, similar to the big piece, but with a lot less characters. It would certainly start a conversation with little ones about the meaning of Christmas. I cut 2 - 8x10" styrene blanks into two equal pieces and leaded and painted the designs. Then after they were dry, I taped them together on the back and cut off the excess width of tape, so that it wouldn't show from the front. It makes a lovely screen in front of a votive candle.

But if it bothers you that 2 of the main characters are missing...try the 8x10" Mother and Child design. The style of this project is considered to be juvenile, primarily due to the simple facial expressions. But it is a nice project and could be completed by your resident child in an afternoon.
Bottom line - there is a style and a level of difficulty for almost every subject that will fit the needs and desires of the crafter. I try to show you both ends of the spectrum in this blog. You just need to look for your own personal balance between the two.

Christmas Clings make a SCENE!

2011-12-09T05:34:00.000-08:00

I've been busy making holiday decorations and gifts, but let's review some of the tried and true Gallery Glass techniques. Clings are fun to make and patterns and images are plentiful. All you have to do is open an envelope. Christmas cards, wrapping paper and shopping ads abound with possibilities. Here is a good way to decorate a garden door. This is so simple, just make the ornament shaped clings on the leading blanks, peel and stick them in place and you can even make some triantular shaped "snow". At the bottom of the post, I will include a set of instructions for the Cling process to print out so that you will have them beside you as you work.

Now that you have the instructions, here are some more scenes that you might want to consider making for the holidays. There a lot of people that prefer traditional themes and the following designs fall into that category. You can make them as Clings and simply adhere them to the window in random arrangements, or you can put Crystal Clear and Etching Medium around them for a real stained glass window effect. I apologize for the partially cut off ornaments around the edge of the image to the left. I couldn't find the original picture of this grouping, so I cut it from a layout in a book. But I think that you get the idea.

One of the subjects that I love at Christmas time is Carollers. These are dressed in their Victorian costumes, which makes them especially charming.

We didn't put clear around the Carollers because it probably is not a motif that you would want to leave up longer than a month. However, here is another idea, that you may like. You can purchase 24" X 36" poster frames and do your scene on the styrene panel that comes in the poster frame. This is the technique that I use most often. Not only is it easy to store and less work to display, but it is wonderfully portable. I often make a big decoration for the office window pre-season, then I take them home and put them in my window for the holiday. I call it "re-purposing" the decorations.

Here's one that many people like because nativity sets take up a lot of space. The figures are large enough to be impressive. It is a great display to put up if you have small children in the home. They enjoy looking at the figures when you are telling the Christmas story.

Now let's look into another way of grouping the Clings together. I call them "CLUSTERS". It is similar to the Cling Windows, except that you don't fill in the background completely. This is particularly useful in making free form shapes, such as trees or wreaths. I will show you the shapes--then what we did with them. It will be easier for you to see what is cling and what is background. We also added Clings for the Fall season and some of the designs are interchangeable. We created a Wreath and a Fall Swag shape with some of the Clings from each group. The best advantage to this technique is that you can easily peel off the shapes and keep them to make "Clusters" for another occasion. Imagine a Valentine Wreath or an Easter Egg Tree.

Holy Bevels! Check out Cheryl's Magnuson's Gallery Glass

2011-12-07T05:21:00.000-08:00

You are going to LOVE our new artist, Cheryl. I was amazed by her work and asked her to tell us how it all came about. Here's the amazing story.

"My kitchen windows face the driveway and the back of another house. We bought the house about a year ago and kept the blinds drawn to have privacy. It was very dark in our kitchen and living room because of the blinds. My husband hated the idea of the plastic films and so I went online to find alternatives that might make him happy. I found Gallery Glass. Through your blogs, I discovered how to use different techniques including adding beveled glass.

1. I used a template (pattern) and taped it to the outside of the window.

2. I then used premade leading (Redi-Lead Strips) to follow the lines as well as measuring with a tape measure to make sure everything was symmetrical.

3. I used Crystal clear and the Etching Medium to make the different textures.
4. To secure the beveled glass, I taped it with blue tape and secured with liquid leading. I made sure that all the bevels were fitted with the premade leading first. Then used the liquid leading on sides to secure it better. I let it dry for about two days to make sure it was really secure.

The finished product is stunning and we took the blinds off and there is so much light flooding from the windows. It is private, yet we still can see the green plants. The beveled glass really makes it look like true stained glass and we love the way the sun hits the bevels creating rainbows in the room."

(Carol) Sometimes, it is great to just stand back and let the artists teach us. Through many hours of research and experimentation, Cheryl has not only enriched their lives by adding beauth and grace to their surroundings, but she has eliminated some unwanted views and opened up the wonderful windows so that the fabulous light can come pouring in. THAT'S WHAT I'M TALKING ABOUT! Privacy and light--you can't beat it. Thank you, Cheryl, for this wonderful story and all the careful photography. I'll bet all of our readers can envision multiple projects where your techniques could be used. Please keep us in the loop on your future projects!

"After completing the 4 kitchen windows in my home, I moved onto our front door and sidelight. They were plain and people could see into our living room from the street. I took Beveled Glass pieces and colored glass stones and outlined them with Redi-Lead, then taped them with the blue tape that I got from Home Depot, and used liquid leading to secure them to the glass. I used it on corners and where ever I needed to secure the glass. I then let it dry for a couple of days and carefully took off the tape.

Here are my creations."
(Carol's tip: You can also create the "collar" around a glass bevel or jewel by placing it on the leading blank, then squeezing out a wide bead around it-- making sure that all light holes are filled. Let dry for at least 24 hrs. Carefully peel the bevel and collar--off the leading blank and remove any "run under" from the back of the bevel. Place it immediately on the window in the desired spot, and lead around it again with the Liquid Lead. Use the blue tape to hold it in place for at least 24 hrs. before you paint the background around it. )

"I created the flowers by finding a photo online. I enlarged the image and used liquid leading to make the outline. After that dried, I colored it with a mixture of Berry Red and another color. I used a variety of greens for the leaves. I peeled them off and placed them on the windows. The border of the design was done on the actual window as well as the color. I measured carefully and used bevel glass strategically. We wanted to open the window so we didn’t use beveled glass on the back window--putting Snow White there, instead. The flowers turned out beautiful and it was easy using the combination of vertical and horizontal techniques. I used the etching medium with a brush to create the sandblasted look."

"Finally, the arch above my doorway.

My husband and I wanted a water theme since we live by the beach. We priced out stained glass and discovered it would cost thousands of dollars. Just not in our budget.

1. I began with measuring a border around the entire arch and coloring it with a blue that reminded us of the ocean.
2. I then found several dolphin photos and outlines online, enlarged them out and printed them out.

3. I outlined them with liquid leading and then colored them using the techniques I learned by watching some You Tube videos.

4. After they were dry, I peeled them off and placed them on the window trying to decide on the perfect placement.

5. I then began placing Red-Lead strips on the window to create the appearance of water.

6. I also used the Redi-Lead circles to create more interest.

7. Finally, after using liquid leading to connect all the strips, I began to use three different techniques to create the illusion of water and currents (Crystal clear, etching medium and using a paint brush with Crystal Clear in a wave motion).

I have attached the step-by-step photos. It was so much fun and so amazingly beautiful. I can’t believe that I made it, actually. Thank you so much for all your blogs as it supported me in learning the process of creating this piece as well as all the others."

Framed Art Gifts to Make with Gallery Glass

2011-12-02T08:28:00.000-08:00

Now is the time for all good crafters to start thinking GIFTS! I know that you would LOVE to give a gift that you had some fun with first. Every crafter dreams of her money fulfilling two dreams--not only do you get to "play" with the supplies, but when your crafting technique is finished--the recipient exclaims that it is the best gift they received from under the tree. Not an easy tightrope to walk, but glasscrafters have long enjoyed that little double benefit. So let's think about what kind of designs to select for a holiday project. First of all, the subject matter has to match the person. Look for a design that symbolizes their hobby, Alma mater, favorite sport or occupation. Then pick colors that will coordinate with the location where you think they will want to display the gift. If it is a sport team--those colors are set in stone and nobody seems to mind that it doesn't match the drapes. But other subjects may require some careful consideration when it comes to selecting the color key.

Now let's talk about the finished product. I prefer framed art for a gift for several reasons--perceived value is first and foremost. Your artwork will look a lot more expensive if it is framed. But there another very important reason--portability. You can wrap a piece of framed art and carry it in the car to Grandma's. It is also more shippable, but that is a whole different discussion that we will have later. Suffice to say--don't even think about wrapping your gift in tissue paper or bubble wrap!

I have posted two "idea" posts under the Project Category - All Occasion Designs. One is focused on projects with a Culinary Theme and the other is geared more for children and includes Animals and Birds. Take a look at those before you make your final choice. I wanted to include a few more designs that don't fall into either of those categories. If you have not previously considered making a Gallery Glass gift, I hope that these posts will inspire you to try it. What have you got to lose?

8x10" framed art

11"x14" framed art

16"x20"

I chose the Framed Art Category as the theme for our latest Gallery Glass Seminar. It is a semi-annual event that I hold for the members of my Sunday School Class. They are experienced painters by now and we are continually looking for new techniques and projects. Making gifts has been an enjoyable pastime for them already and I felt that it was time to step it up a bit. I leaded all the panels for them so that we could all paint together on the same day. I dare to say that a good time was had by all. We are friends AND crafters, so it was an afternoon of pure pleasure.

Here are some candid shots of them working on their framed art "gifts" and other seasonal projects.

Elegant Gallery Glass Designs to adapt for Round Surfaces

2011-12-01T08:02:00.000-08:00

Elaborate Ornaments - 12" Round

Let the bell toll and the ornament, too! Who wouldn't love to have this elegant piece hanging near their holiday tree. I am drawn to the delicate detail on both and it opens up a world of possibilities to use your specialty paints--Sparkles, Glitters and Shimmers. It doesn't really matter which of those you use where--as long as the placement complements the adjacent choices. I used Gold Sparkle for the Ornament with Gold and Hologram Glitter as accents. To coordinate, I used Silver Sparkle for the Bell with Silver and Hologram Glitter as accents. See, it's easy as long as you're consistent.
The pattern and supply list are at the bottom. You can enlarge these designs to fit clear glass plates, or 10" smooth plastic plates from the party store.

Simple Holiday Wreath - 12" Round

It's not all about detail. Big, Bold and Beautiful are my preferred qualifications for a good Gallery Glass Design. This is a project you can lead in 10 minutes and it doesn't take a lot of blending and shading to get the look you see. The secret is letting the paint dry, then adding the detail with glitter paints on TOP of the cured paint. It sparkles and winks with the blinking of the lights on the tree and is certain to be a big holiday favorite. It makes a great gift because it is colorful and impressive, but doesn't take a weekend to make. That's a good factor to consider at this busy time of year.

Elaborate Ornaments - 12" Round

Enlarge pattern to 12". This design can also be done on an 11x14" poster frame, if round is not available. If you do not have Silver Sparkle, you can use Black Onyx and White Pearl in varying amounts on the areas marked 421. If you don't have either of the Glitter Colors, you can use Plaid's Extreme Glitter Gold, Hologram and Silver, which come in a 2 oz. size. Slender Bands on the ornaments are darkened, as indicated with dots and then combed to make the new darker color.
Supplies: 12" Round Chain Wrapped Plexi Blank, 16008 Kelly Green, 16015 Ruby Red, 16019 Gold Sparkle, 16010 Amber, 16023 Berry Red, 16024 Ivy Green, 16079 Black Liquid Leading, 16081 Crystal Clear, 16095 Black Onyx, 16440 Gold Glitter, 16441 Silver Glitter, 16442 Hologram Glitter, 16225 Gallery Glass Tool Set.

Evelyn Paints Another Pane with Gallery Glass

2011-11-29T05:55:00.000-08:00

You will remember Evelyn Fischer--she loves to do Gallery Glass Painting on old window frames? Well, the girl has been busy again. This is a project that she just finished and she took the time to document, photograph and write it up so that you can get a good idea of the process if you should be so lucky as to find a discarded window by the side of the road, or at a garage sale or in your own garage--here's what Evelyn did to make it a showcase project! The photo on the left is the panel placed in a window so that you can see the vibrant details. The photo on the left is the frame hung on a wall, which is where normally displays her finished art. Be sure to check out Evelyn's other projects in our Artists' Gallery.

"First thing you want to do is go out hunting for that perfect old beat up window. I find mine at garage sales , swap meets, house remodels and sometimes you can find them on the side of the road with free signs on them. Once you find that perfect window you go to the hardware store find a sanding block ( I used # 60 or you could just use sandpaper - although I found the block a lot easier to handle. Paints of your choice and caulking if needed. Prepping the window is relatively easy all you do is sand the window so it will accept the base coat well. Then clean the window glass and caulk if needed. If the window is in good condition meaning that the caulking in sound and not breaking away you will be ready to paint. On my window I had to re-caulk and for that I used Dap Kwik Seal Plus, kitchen and bath adhesive caulk in a squeeze tube. I let it dry for 24 hours . Now you are ready to paint the window in whatever method best suits you. I have painted my window with Martha Stewart paints which I purchased at Home Depot.

First step: I painted the base coat. I chose the tintable tester size Base 2 Interior Latex Eggshell ( MSL 2012 ) tinted to the color of (Pencil MSL 082) for the base color let it dry overnight. Second step: I applied the crackle medium per manufacturer's directions. I am using Sherman and Williams - Faux Impressions Crackle. I applied it with a roller to make sure I had even coverage . The manufacturer's directions states to let dry at least 1 hour before applying the top coat but I am waiting at least 2 hours.

Third step: I applied the topcoat - tester size Base 3 Interior Latex Eggshell ( MSL 2013 ) tinted to the color of (Barn MSL026)- for the crackled topcoat being careful not to go back over the already painted area . If you try to go back over what you have already painted it will pull off the crackled painted. I let the crackle dry for 24 hours before continuing on.

Fourth step: I applied the pattern to the window and applied the liquid leading. Again I let the liquid leading dry for 24 hours.

Fifth step: I applied the coloring working from the inside of the pattern to the outside pattern. I did this so I would not touch what I had already filled with the paint. Again let dry for 24 hours.

Sixth step: Brush on Gallery Glass Protective Sealer.

Materials you will need. Sanding Block #60 grit or sandpaper #60 grit, Caulking if needed, Latex interior paint ( for this project I am using a crackle technique) So I need a base coat, crackle medium, and a top coat. Pattern to fit the window, Liquid leading and Redi-leading, Gallery Glass paints."

Welcome Suzette Bos to the Gallery Glass Artists' Circle

2011-11-22T06:45:00.000-08:00

"I accidentally stumbled across Gallery Glass about 10 years ago in a craft store. I was looking for a stencil pattern and found a collection of products which included some pattern books. There was a beautiful pattern for a paladian window design. Although the window I had was square and much larger, my mind immediately began calculating how to duplicate the pattern and make it work. This is the resulting window. It was about 45 inches square and was above my master bathroom jetted tub. Although this was on the third floor of our home, nobody wants a window that large with a completely unobstructed view above their bathtub!!! GG was the perfect answer…light, bright, beautiful and PRIVATE!"

"We sold that house a few years ago and bought a ‘fixer-upper’ in a different suburb of St. Louis. We’ve been slowly plowing thru the immediate ‘must do’ projects and finally I saw an opening for a ‘want to do’. Our kitchen has a breakfast nook with a bay door and two windows. It is very bright, lots of unobstructed light comes through but the door is metal (no curtains). For awhile we had sheers on a magnetic rod (YAWN!!!) and then, I remembered GG. The house has simple basic lines, lots of maple wood and we’ve decorated with earth tones, so I needed something with clean lines and neutral tones that we’d want to look at A LOT! You spend so much time in your kitchen. My husband and I talked about it and he came up with the idea of how clean Frank Lloyd Wright’s designs were."

"When we searched online, we found a number of window designs by the artist. I printed many of them and studied each for the elements we found interesting. I sketched out the basic center door design and got to work. With my ruler and a sharpie, I drew my design right onto the glass. I used other items from my kitchen as well – the red circle began as one of our dinner plates, etc… Once that was done, I used Redi-Lead to follow the sharpie lines and sealed the joints with liquid lead. That was about it for day one. On the second day I began the painting. I started with the darkest colors, spacing them out and taking stock after every area was filled. I needed some of the colors to dry to really get a feel for continuing, so the coloring process took about a week. Once the door was complete I knew where I wanted to go with the windows. In order to keep the entire project from becoming too busy (there’s a lot going on here), I made the two side windows mirror images of each other. I began by carrying through the ‘ribbon’ idea that began at the bottom of the door and moves up and to the right. It picks up in the right side window and arcs up, touches in at the top and moves across to the left window. Ultimately this ribbon ties all three panes together creating a movement throughout the trio and joining the design. Mirroring the side windows made it quick work to lead them. I did each element on the right and then on the left, insuring that I utilized the same measurements and shapes. Painting them followed the same process. Before I knew it, the project was completed. About 30 hours, design to finish."

"After completing this, I’m eager to get started on the other projects I’ve thought of – we have three other metal exterior doors that have window insets, after all. I wouldn’t want them to feel slighted….Plus my husband has dreams of his family crest, in Gallery Glass, in all its glory somewhere in the house. I wouldn’t want to disappoint him. What a wonderful product and a great accent to my home! I’m so glad I discovered it."

(Carol) I guess some of you have figured that Suzette probably isn't a typical crafter. Most would start with a small project and "work up". Suzette is an educated professional with a high degree of organizational ability (obviously), but even though it helps--it's not an essential element being able to accomplish a similar project in your home. But you won't EVER do it, if you don't start. I think that it says a lot that her very first project was a 45" square window over the tub. It proves that Gallery Glass really is beginner FRIENDLY. However, Suzette includes this caption at the bottom of her emails. I think it probably gives you an idea of WHY she is so successful in accomplising her goals. "Diamonds are only chunks of coal, that stuck to their jobs" --Minnie Richard Smith

On a side note, I think I know the paladian window that may have inspired Suzette's bathroom project. I remember it well because it was a window in my master bedroom at another residence. The design elements are somewhat similar. The truth is, I was inspired by the design on the door of the house in the wooden screen that I had in the corner. You can see it in the far right side of the picture. I thought it tied the room together in a unique way.

Gallery Glass Wrap Up for Fall Holidays

2011-11-17T05:58:00.000-08:00

It's just about time to move on to the Christmas holidays, but we should take one last look at the Thanksgiving designs that you may have missed. Thanksgiving has a shorter decorating "window" because it is sandwiched between Halloween and Christmas, but it certainly deserves our time and attention. I usually add the "leaves" decorations in with the Thanksgiving motifs because they coordinate color-wise and because it gives more flexibility to the projects.

10" round version of Autumn Leaves.

Having trouble locating a 10" blank? Check the Party store. They have large plain plastic plates that have a flat surface with a slightly curved edge. These inexpensive surfaces are adaptable to the 10" round designs, although you may have to shrink them down a little. They are just as pretty and more available than the 10" blanks which were discontinued from Plaid. Go to the "Project Categories" list and click on Patterns and Color Keys for more complete instructions.

Elegant Autumn Pumpkin with Leaves - 10" Round

Fall decorations get more exciting as the leaves begin to fall in the back yard. Decorations on the windows need to be vibrant or they won't compete with the splashes of color drifting past. This suncatcher is bound to get the attention of anyone who sees it. The pumpkin doesn't have a face, so it can stay in play all the way to Thanksgiving.

Autumn Suncatchers "light up" Clear Vases

Gallery Glass allows you to "go wild" with your seasonal decor because they are REMOVABLE. There is no messy adhesive and they stay flexible for many years to come. It's a very easy process. Lead and paint piles of brightly colored leaves on 8"x10" reusable blanks (from Plaid), let dry--then peel and stick to windows, mirrors and other smooth surfaces. When the holiday is over, peel the leaves off the surfaces, put them back on a reusable sheet and store them in a cool flat place inside food storage bags.

Big, Bold and Beautiful Sunflower on 10" Round

I love florals that leave no doubt about what kind of flower you're trying to depict. Who doesn't enjoy the cheerful coloring and positive primary colors of Autumn Sunflowers? I wish I had a hundred of them in my back yard, but will be satisfied to hang this 10" beveled piece in the window. It's almost as good as the real thing. The petals are plain, with very simple shading, but the center gets a little more drama from the addition of FolkArt Extreme Glitter polka dots of Black and Gold applied first. Then the Gallery Glass Black Onyx and Cocoa Brown are swirled around and through the glitter dots to disperse. The result is a little heavier center with subtle highlights--fantastic! Check out the pattern in Project Categories Patterns and Color Keys under Sunflower.
Pilgrim and Indian - 6"x9" Ovals
I put these up last because I have never been happy with the faces of the Pilgrim and the Indian. However, there certainly is a place for them in our Thanksgiving display. The same holds true of the ship. It's especially good to put them up if you have small children visiting the house, who may not yet know the story of the first Thanksgiving. The patterns are not in Project Categories, but you can follow the directions on the Message Board for printing out the designs and enlarge them to fit your situation. If you don't have oval blanks, you can make all three in a smaller size and use them as suncatchers.

Gallery Glass Entertains a new group of Beginners!

2011-11-15T05:45:00.000-08:00

There's nothing more fun for me-- than introducing my favorite hobby to a new group of "want-to-be" glass crafters. It is rare that I get that opportunity, but this weekend a dozen church ladies came down to Norcross from Loganville, GA to visit Plaid and enjoy an introduction to Gallery Glass techniques in our corporate Training Room. This isn't something that we do on a regular basis, but permission was granted and I started planning the holiday theme several months ago. Each participant was allowed to choose 3 round designs from a set of 6 possible projects and they didn't find out much more information about the event--until they arrived.

I had arranged the room in my favorite classroom set up, so that I can freely walk down the middle of the tables and teach to both sides. That way, all the girls can see what others are learning while they're working. I had also brought up a whole room full of my large 24"x36" panels on various subjects to serve as inspiration. I leaded all 45 projects in advance and the stage was set for the arrival of the students.

I had pre-sorted all the colors that each person would need to do their 3 selected designs into red Plaid Bags along with tools and accessories. I had also put the 3 leaded projects into individual bags with all the instructional material. I think that it was "beginning to look a lot like Christmas" by the time they arrived.

It took a while to explain the technique and most of the girls started with the Cornucopia. It was the design with the most shading and I wanted them to learn the maximum amount on the first project. The wonderful thing about Gallery Glass is that 90% of the method is basically 2 easy steps--Outline and Paint! Once you can do that, the other 10% of the technique has to do with eliminating air bubbles and we learned a number of "tricks" to minimize those pesky little flaws!

The girls began by sorting through their bag of colors for the specific ones on their color list. And then there was the bottle "opening" process (removing the shrink wrap) which was accomplished with a Gallery Glass Cutting Tool. The next step featured a little explanation on the dry erase board--making sure that everyone knew that it was recommended procedure to outline the space they were painting--then fill in the center up to the level of the leading. And that it was necessary to get the paint up ON the Leading, rather than trying meticulously to avoid touching it.

Next we began the combing and tapping lesson. This is not rocket science, but it took a little bit of experimental wielding of the nutpick to get the action just right. The object of the game is to slightly "thin" the layer of paint enough so that the bubbles rise to the top and POP! If they don't, then the "acorn" end of the nutpick is recommended for "whopping" the bottom of the styrene project directly UNDER the bubble so that the shock waves will eliminate the bubble. It's not the most restful sound to an outsider, but a glass crafter hardly notices it, we are so intent on perfecting our technique and producing a flawless finish.

The day went by so quickly we didn't have time to do the other 2 projects, but hopefully the girls got back to painting once they got it all home and could spread it out in their craft area--which may be their dining room table--for now. It takes a while before you decide to dedicate a whole room in your house --just to glass painting--like I did. The ladies were sweet and wonderful and I enjoyed their enthusiasm and answering all their questions. Many were planning more extensive projects before they even got out of the building.

We will be showing more of the other designs that they painted as we get into Christmas designs in a few weeks. Hopefully, we will also be loading photos of some of their future projects into our Artists' Corner. Aren't Beginners wonderful. They have the whole amazing glass painting experience-- still to discover! I envy them in a way, don't you? We already know how much fun they're going to have in their crafty future.

Traditional Fall Gallery Glass Designs

2011-11-14T04:03:00.000-08:00

Bountiful Horn of Plenty - 12" Circle

The weather is getting cooler and harvest is in progress all around us. Roadside Stands and Farmers' Markets are brimming with beautiful fruits and vegetables. It not only makes me hungry, but it reminds me of how much we have to be thankful for. This elaborate cornucopia offers an opportunity to use Extreme Glitter by Plaid to differentiate between the horn and the plenty. It makes it a little more opaque and adds a bit of holiday glitz at the same time. I applied Hologram Glitter in dots and swirled the amber paint through it, then blended and combed with a nutpick--an easy technique that requires little time.

I love this design so much because-- first of all, it's food and painting food is the next best thing to eating it. And secondly because it is a big, bold, beautiful Fall/Thanksgiving decoration that bridges into Christmas beautifully.

What's Thanksgiving without a Turkey?

It's hard to find a design that isn't too juvenile, but a realistic turkey isn't very attractive as a stained glass motif, so we finally settled on this one. He isn't a cartoon, but his multi-colored feathers have a whimsical quality. He is particularly effective surrounded by Indian corn, cornucopias and scarecrows. You can use an old photo frame and paint him on the glass, or you can just lead the design onto a leading blank and peel him off to go on the window. I really prefer Plaid's 8"x10" styrene blank because of the ease of storing him for the next year. This is a particularly good design for a kid's group. They will create colors of feathers you never dreamed of.

Lilies for Fall Color

The season is changing and it's time to take down the window decorations and cozy up to an earthy color palette. These lilies bloom with Fall colors and make a welcome addition to any room.
This is a great time of year for Paintin' Parties. We hosted one this month that featured this very design.

This project will probably take about one hour to complete in a classroom setting, so we always offer multiple projects so that each painter can work at their own speed. Pacing is important--the challenge is to satisfy the experienced painters, without frustrating the beginners.

Autumn Leaves - 12" and 10" Rounds

Autumn leaves are falling! Why not celebrate the coming of Fall with a special suncatcher. This 12"
project offers the opportunity to create some new colors by blending the pure color with my favorite neutral color--Hologram Shimmer. It gives the hues a completely different look and softens them just enough to make it a super easy project for a beginner. Apply the pure color in dots in the section, then swirl the Hologram Glitter paint through the dots and use the combing tool from the tool set to thoroughly blend the two colors together, making a new, lighter sparkly color.

Meet Tim Beauregard, wood worker and now Gallery Glass painter

2011-11-10T07:51:00.000-08:00

And just in case you think Gallery Glass is only for the female gender, here's a new male artist that will knock your socks off.
I received this email and picture from Tim Beauregard a couple of weeks ago, and have been very interested in his story. He says that he is a beginner --can you believe it? These doors (in progress)-- for a cabinet that he's building--look like he's a seasoned professional. Some beginners start right out of the box--as designers--and Tim is a perfect example. Here's his story.

"This is my first project with painted glass. I am more of a woodworker trying to incorporate uniqueness into my projects. It is a little funky as it represents a variety of things in my life... interests, accomplishments, and significant dates. The two doors are for an entertainment cabinet. I added lighting to the cabinet interior. When the doors are closed I do NOT want to see into the cabinet, so all the remaining clear sections of glass need something. I don't want to just fill in with some kind of swirly clear effect. Rather I would like to have some form of simple and tasteful background that everything "sits on." In the picture, the doors are sitting on a white tiled table."

I relayed some information on backgrounds--suggesting various techniques with the Clear, Frost and Etching Medium, but the one he most liked was the idea of adding an opaque color - Cameo Ivory.

He had a little help, however, being introduced to Gallery Glass. He tells the story of the refrigerator cabinet that he built last year for a customer. "This is a painting my sister Cheryl did on a cabinet that I custom built to house a wine chilling refrigerator. She and I brainstormed ideas (I live in NC and she lives in GA, and we emailed), then I built the door and took it to her on Thanksgiving holiday. By The beginning of the year she completed it and brought it back. Then I delivered the finished cabinet in May."

Okay, Tim, we're convinced that you are a bonified Gallery Glass Artist! Please send us an updated picture of that memory door lighted cabinet --as soon as it is finished. Then we'll know if Cameo Ivory was your final choice. Hey, does this project give anyone else out there--ideas? How about a "Family Memory" Entertainment Cabinet? You could tie everyone's hobbies and interests into one design--it could work. I'm beginning to see a Smith set of doors in my head, right now!

(update) Thanks, everyone for the wonderful welcome to Tim through your comments. He responded by sending the picture of the lighted entertainment center--in place. Here it is, looks like he went with the Cameo Ivory--nice job, Tim!

Meet Evelyn Fischer - Gallery Glass Doors are her passion!

2011-11-03T06:38:00.000-07:00

Evelyn says, "I live in Washington and I do these projects in the winter during the rainy season which is upon us now."

"I just finished my latest Gallery Glass project. Actually they are doors from an old office filing cabinet. I found them in my dad's shed. I had fun making them and searching for a pattern on the Internet. I found the pattern, but it was only a small graph. I took it up to our local "wrap and ship" store where they had an enlarging machine that enlarged it to fit my windows. I guessed at the colors to use.

"I have about 15 window frames that I will be doing this winter. I only do them when I can't get outside to work in the yard. I have to stay busy or go stir crazy. Can you tell that I'm retired?"

(I asked her to take a picture of these lovely doors in a window, although she displays them in her kitchen--against a wall. I thought that you would be able to see them better with light behind them.)

"I have been a crafter for a long time. When I was searching my fathers back storage shed I came across these Bookcases doors. I instantly thought that they would make a real cool stained glass set of doors that would look good in my house. So I cleaned them up and went to your your website to find a pattern that might fit this odd sized set of doors. I couldn't find anything that I thought would work so I went looking for free stained glass patterns that could be printed. I finally found a site that had what I was looking for. I printed them out and they were very small. I wanted them enlarged to 9"wide by 29" long. He took out his little wheel and dialed in some numbers came out with the calculation, entered the numbers into the machine and and voila!! It printed out to the exact size I needed. The next step was to tape the pattern to the back of the doors. After that --is was all fun, fun, fun."

"I applied the Liquid Leading and the Redi-Lead. I let the leading dry for 24 hours. Then I started to get worried that the colors would not be what I wanted, because it is hard to tell what the colors are going to be until they dry-- and I didn't have a color chart. I got out my favorite book on this topic which is the one and only Windows, Glass Decor and More! by Jan Cumber with designs inspired by Donna Dewberry;, and reviewed some of the colors I had used on my Rooster, which is in the book. I then squeezed the colors out on a leading blank land et them dry --to make sure the colors would be what I wanted."

"After picking out the colors I would be using, I filled in the pattern. and I used the Gallery Glass Tool get the texture the way I wanted it. I used the metal combing tool and a toothpick to swirl and pounce up and down in the color to get a bumpy look. I really liked the results I ended up with and the colors turned out better than I thought they would."

"I also wanted to add how much I enjoyed working with the Gallery Glass paints and my grandchildren love making the window clings so do I."

Eveyln, thank you so much for sharing your craft journey with us. It turned out so well. I love the way she used the doors in her kitchen. There are so many ways to use Gallery Glass in our decor--and hardly any other medium ties together a whole room--like Gallery Glass. Evelyn has a lot of new patterns, so we'll be hearing more from her by the time spring comes!

Signs of the Holidays

2011-11-02T06:26:00.000-07:00

An experienced glass crafter can always tell when it's getting close to the holidays because the special requests pick up. People that have seen your work all year, will call and ask you to do a project for one of their family members or friends. These requests offer wonderful opportunities for you to earn a little extra money so that you can buy ELECTRONICS for your family (they usually don't want any more Gallery Glass). So it's a win/win situation.

After just such a request, one of my friends, an avid glass painter, called to ask if I had any patterns for signs such as Home Sweet Home or Welcome Home. Of course, but where was it? I looked in all the files at the office without success, so left a message on my home phone--to look there. Viola! I was seeing it in my head (because I rarely forget a pattern), but wasn't sure I could put my finger on it. The project I was seeing was in a very old book that was done for Gallery Glass Glass Paint, a smoother, thinner version of paint that was produced in the early '90's. You're so lucky that I've been around for such a long time and that I am such as avid collector of glass painting books. I found it without much trouble--along with several more, so I decided to share them with you so that you can make some pocket change this holiday season.

Here is one I wish we had found before Halloween, but I thought that I should put it in this post, so that you will automatically think of it next year in time to make up a version of it for your front window. It would look a lot better I think, if there was Crystal Clear on the Background. It is not a texture that was available in the Glass Paint Line, so it was not used in any of the signs. But keep it in mind. The amount of unpainted background in these projects would make them hard to keep clean. Bare glass--gets dirty.

Now, I've saved possibly the best sign for last! The Name Plate is undoubtedly the best possible choice, not always for the giver, but for the receiver, nothing rates higher on their list than a personalized project that beautifully displays their family moniker. It is somewhat adjustable by picking out a font on your computer and printing out the name, then enlarging it to fit the space. For short names this will be no problem. However, the longer the name, the more you may have to stretch the name vertically to make the letters tall and skinny. If it is a very long name, you can also add design elements to the border.

These signs were made even more exciting because of the lighting around the inside edge of the frame. Here are the artist's instructions on how to accomplish this special effect. I'm putting it in as an attachment, so that you can hopefully print it out.

Laurie's Gallery Glass Prayer Window--Completed!

2011-10-27T10:14:00.000-07:00

Our reader, Laurie Morris, from South Carolina, was one of the first people to respond to Gallery Glass Class. She and I have exchanged a number of emails--sharing about our respective projects. Today she is letting me share one of them with you. Here, in parts, is her explanation of the project.

Laurie said, "Remember when we first started chatting I told you I was planning to do a window for my Bible study room? Well I finally got over the material hump (odd size window) and started the project. Since I couldn't find styrene in the entire window size (plus the size is big enough that I wasn't sure how to mount it...industrial windows), I decided to divide the project into (4) sections. The church window actually has double paned windows with dividers on the inside of the panes, so naturally the window feels like four sections anyway. I searched the Internet for patterns and ended up drawing my own based on a few I had seen. The grapes are from the GG suncatcher book. Then I applied the GG. I was still pondering how to hang the project. The deal with the church was "the decoration had to be temporary". I couldn't use the method you suggested (glazing gun) so I fired up the trusty Internet. The results, "static cling". You know those clings you buy at the holidays printed on vinyl, that principal. Now a more complicated search where to find the vinyl. You can buy printer friendly vinyl for making your own clings but the size is 8.5x11. My piece is approx 17 x 14. I went back to Hobby Lobby where in the fabric section I found clear vinyl for $2.99 a yard. It's .5 mm thick. I cut a piece just about 2-4 mm larger than my plexi. I dampened the back of the plexi (non-GG side) with water with a touch of dish liquid (per the Internet search). I aligned the vinyl on the plexi with the slight overhang. Then I dampened the window (water and dish liquid) where I am "hanging" the plexi. The vinyl "adheres" to the glass. It will stay until removed. I tested the "hanging method" at home for a few days, no problems with glass temp changes. When I went to remove the vinyl from my window today, it took some doing to get that vinyl to let go (need a long finger nail) but once it's started, it pulled away no problem. Currently I have some liquid leading directly on some vinyl and I believe the GG is just flexible enough that painting directly on it. But since my first window has the foil edge, I am going to finish these four sections using that style."

It's now been several weeks, and Laurie sent the

2nd panel photograph. It has a valuable lesson for us--regarding faces on people. It is difficult to lead the features on a face especially when it is so small. Laurie leaded the top of the beard, but the line was proportionally too thick to be "in scale". Add to the fact that this whole composition is on the plastic film discussed above and you see the other problem. It's not possible to score and remove painted areas from plastic--in order to re-do a section. We talked about how real church windows are full of religious figures, but the faces are often painted on a single piece of glass with ceramic paints--probably one stoke paints--and then fired to make it permanent. This is not possible with Gallery Glass, so Laurie and I came up with a couple of solutions. One, you can add the features after the face color dries with leading applied from a nutpick or stylus. Or you can use a permanent black marker, although it is difficult to get it to write on the Gallery Glass and it may fade out over time due to UV light. However, you can always re-apply, so that it a reasonable alternative. But we wanted you to see the panel because it is beautifully done and goes very well with the theme of the prayer window.

Laurie has finished Panel number three. She has a new camera and is trying to learn the settings. She says that the black of night is actually darker. There is some glitter in the night sky and she really likes the effect, although it doesn't show up in the picture. Her friends at church have been very supportive and complimentary--especially about this one. She admits that it is her favorite, so far.

And now the 4th panel is finished. Here is the picture of it and here is Laurie's comments. "

"I like the last panel, but I think my favorite is the third one (with the hand and globe). My least favorite is #2 (Jesus). The good news is, all panels are mounted with velcro because the window is an

industrial type, I could not use glazing points (I think that is what they are called). I can change out the panels if better ideas come along."

"Here are some of what I learned:

All panels were done on plastic film because with area was such an odd size. I would not use the plastic again. It was not at all forgiving of mistakes (couldn't remove and rework). On the plus side, because the plastic is light, the velcro is a great mounting options. I put foiling tape on all edges so they would appear move finished. I like the look and would use it again with glass or plexi but not the sheet plastic. During this project (all 4 panels) I really got better and better with the leading and now LOVE the tape tip. I actually trashed the metal tips I bought at the craft store."

"And lastly, unrelated to the panels but related to GG, I got a second place award from the SC State Fair for a Koi Block I made for my husband, even though I couldn't use the twinkle lights inside the glass block at the fair. My block was displayed next to a "real" stained glass window which I thought was done very nicely, it did not win a prize and both were in the "glass crafts" category."

Laurie, you are quite possibly my "Most Improved" reader. I feel a personal triumph because I goaded you into using the Tape Tip. You will find that creative opportunities pop up all the time, now that you can lead with ease! Hallelujah!

Here is Laurie's finished window. She's not happy with the picture and will take another one, which we will replace this one--with! Congratulations, Laurie, on a job well done!

8' Haunted House with Gallery Glass Windows

2011-10-24T08:32:00.000-07:00

Sometimes you do something --just because you CAN! That's what happened when my family asked me to build a Haunted House for the Trunk or Treat at church. Now the event only lasts 1 hour, so you would think that any elaborate display would be out of the question. WRONG! I guarantee that we will not have either the most elaborate, or the most creative display. Couples plan all year for this brief, but brilliant event. Approximately 1000 children will race through the rows and rows of gaily decorated trunks getting one or more pieces of candy at each one. Our Monster Mash theme will be easy to spot because the Haunted House with the Gallery Glass windows will have the setting sun lighting up the glowing glass and Monster music will waft eerily through the air. A tub of water with dry ice will provide suitable "fog" effect and the handmade tombstones will be scattered under the hill with black gossamer filling in the spaces.

My granddaughters made the tombstones, and we came up with some good names for our pseudo relatives-- "Ima Goner", "Emma Ghost", "Reid N. Weep", "Westin Peas" and "Otto B. Alive". We cut them out of the scraps of insulation and painted them with Wet Cement Martha Stewart Satin. We painted the edges with Gray Wolf and used alphabet punches to make the names out of black construction paper. After gluing the letters in place, I stenciled an icon above each name, then we sponged a combination of Beetle Black and the Satin Spray Medium over the edges first, then the central portion of each tombstone with a diluted potion of the Beetle Black--to make them look like granite that had been weathered away.
To begin constructing the house, I projected the design up onto 2 sheets of rigid insulation (only $11 per 4'x8' sheet) with my opaque projector and traced the outline of the windows and outside shape. It should have been perfect, except that the original drawing was so small that the projected image was extremely pixelated. So my tracing was wiggly and not symmetrical, which I cannot tolerate. So I spent two nights re-drawing the windows and doors and porticoes with a T-square. Once they were placed to my satisfaction, I put a new blade in an Olfa knife and proceeded to trim away the excess pinkness. It was really pretty easy. Cutting lengthwise is much easier than cutting across the grain. The curves are a little rough, but it really turned out rather well, considering the relatively small price that we paid for the huge display.

Once it was cut out, I was ready to paint. I chose to use the Martha Stewart Spray Gun Kit. It was easy to paint the face and the "facings" of each of the windows with the spray gun. I put plastic table cloths against a row of boxes in my garage and was pleased that there is minimal overspray. Simultaneously, I had been working on the windows. I traced an outline of each one and then selected a design from a dollhouse windows Dover book. I leaded them on Gallery Glass Cuttable plastic and also some larger pieces of plastic of the same material. I painted them to extend beyond the edges of the openings so that the irregularity of the openings would not be a problem. That worked pretty well, except where I mis-measured. Those had to be done over. But I was determined to get it right. The windows overnight and I was ready to attach them to the insulation. I bought a roll of black Duck tape and it was perfect to tape the trimmed plastic panels to the back of the house parts. The aggressive adhesive allowed the window panels to flex slightly as I lifted and toted the halves from the table to their vertical position. Once all the windows were in place, I taped the two sides of the house together in the center, so that the house could stand alone. We planned to put it on the tailgate of my son-in-law's truck to give it even more height and to make room for the "graveyard" underneath and "candy giver-outers" in front. My daughter got worried that the truck would be too visible, so we bought another piece of 2" rigid insulation and had it cut into two 4'x4' sections. This we painted black, as well and bought some inexpensive fencing to go on top. We thought it would give the impression of "gates" to the property-as well as hiding the sides of the truck, more effectively. The ladder-looking structures behind it were necessary to keep it from blowing across the partking lot, but they were so high up, that nobody mentioned them in the semi-darkness.

Our costumes could be only a little scary since our church asks that there be no frightening costumes. My only "cheat" was the goblin in the upstairs window that I added to the back of the window with Liquid Leading. So our whole display had to be on the MILD side, instead of the WILD side. I'm going to be a Wizard, Samantha was a cute Mummy, Sydney was a fetching Bat Girl and their parents were Frankenstein and his Bride. Pretty interesting costumes, but a lot of fun. The display was a huge success and we won the "Most Creative" prize. Hummmm, we're already thinking about what to do NEXT year, to top this!

Haunted House - created with Gallery Glass - 24"x36" Poster Frame

2011-10-20T07:15:00.000-07:00

I mentioned a few weeks back that I would be looking for a suitable display for the Plaid Lobby. I'm sorry that it took so long, but you still have some time to make it, if you are quick! I got the idea from a clipart.com illustration but did some serious altering to make it suitable for leading and paint. Look closely at the original drawing. I enlarged the design many times on the copier to fit the poster frame and then altered the lines of the design as I leaded with a Tape Tip. Even before I painted it, I made some corrections to the "neighboring houses" that appeared in the lower corners. I leaded a bush to fill in the space. I also cleaned up some of the confusion in the sky among the branches--pulling some of them up and adding new lines that made more sense.

The problems I encountered during the painting phase were new challenges for me-- because I don't ever remember painting something that needed to look OLD! I'm not smart enough to "age" the project as I painted it, so I cheated. I painted it with normal colors, then I "distressed" it with Copper Metallic. Here is a picture of it before the distressing. As a co-worker pointed out--"it's too pretty, it makes you want to live there!" That's not a particularly desirable comment to have made about a Haunted House. So I began working to make it more ominous. I first took Copper Metallic and topically applied it to the porch railings in a random "woodgrain" pattern. Then, I decided that the concrete porch looked too clean, so I applied the CM in lines to look like boards. Then the door looked much too clean, so I streaked it on the door. Then I realized that the Copper Sparkle on the turret and the fishscale shingles was much too bright, so they were next. That only left the sides of the house and --you guessed it, CM, why not? Then the co-worker said that we needed at least one bat--so I added it to the less cluttered sky area.

I think that it looks appropriately scary. But don't let it SCARE you away from the project. You can do it. Let me know if you figure out how to do the distressing--as you go. I want to share your ideas with our readers, even though I'm sure that I don't want to attempt this subject again. It frightens me to think about it!

Now, don't you dare write in and tell me you liked it better BEFORE I distressed it!

FolkArt Extreme Glitter Supplies: 2797 Extreme Glitter Black, 2791 Extreme Glitter Purple, 2792 Extreme Glitter Red, 2794 Extreme Glitter Emerald, (red and green were mixed equally together to make a brown Extreme Glitter for the tree.
Gallery Glass Supplies: 16004 Sunny Yellow, 16005 Orange Poppy, 16003 Cameo Ivory, 16096 Celedon Green, 16459 Italian Sage, 17054 Copper Metallic (discontinued), 16422 Copper Sparkle, 16421 Silver Sparkle (discontinued), 16094 Champagne, 16024 Ivy Green, 16076 Black Liquid Leading.
Sorry, I didn't color key the pattern, but this is basically what I did. The tree is all Extreme Glitter. I mixed the Red and Emerald together to get a brown because EG doesn't come in brown. Then alternated between the Black and "Brown" on the trunk. The grooves were done with Purple.
The railings are Cameo Ivory. The walls are Celedon Green and the door is Italian Sage. The porch floor is Silver Sparkle. The fishscale shingles and turret are Copper Sparkle and the roof is Copper Metallic. Windows are Sunny Yellow and Orange Poppy. Distressing is Copper Metallic and the background is Champagne. (Charcoal might have been a better choice for sky.)
In case you're wondering about the "green" pattern. The styrene still had the green plastic on the back.

Terrifying Trio - on 6"x9" oval blanks

2011-10-18T06:13:00.000-07:00

Maybe I should call them the Terrific Trio. They are so cute it makes you want to invite them in for a Trick or Treat snack. They are perfect for households with small children who might be frightened by really scary faces. Hang them in the front window and turn off the lights when the little neighborhood goblins start up the sidewalk. The faces will "glow" brightly, thanks to the use of Glow in the Dark Mod Podge for the complexions of Frankie and the Witch.

Casting Glass Textures - A Gallery Glass Technique

2011-10-05T06:35:00.000-07:00

Framed panel designed by Laura Brunson

It's not NEW, but it is very different from the other traditional "outline and paint" techniques. In fact, you don't even have to lead, if you want to use Redi-Lead, it's the perfect place for it. Also, the painting is so different. It is done by pouring and spreading Gallery Glass on a reusable leading blank or textured plastic or glass surface. You can use casting techniques to create a variety of designs and textures with one color or by blending one or more colors to make a marbleized "slab". The borders and center motifs for this project were done on a ceiling diffuser that was purchased at the home improvement store for about $9. It sounds expensive, but it is really a "mold" for the paint and is 24"x48", so you could feasibly cast the whole project at one time. You will find them in the acoustic ceiling tile department. The background for the project was cast on a piece of "glue chip" glass purchased from a stained glass store. It is breakable and must be handled carefully, but it creates a texture that is one of the most popular in real leaded glass artwork. Of course, you could also apply Crystal Clear from the bottle for the background, but those of you who want to make Here's how you do it.

How to Cast

1. Spread Gallery Glass evenly and with a consistent thickness, using the palette knife from the Gallery Glass Tool set, of a spatula. Don't spread the paint so thin that you can see through it--it should be opaque. Let dry thoroughly.

2. Peel up sheet of cast paint.

3. Position casting on a tracing of your pattern. Cut out with sharp scissors, cutting through the paper. Peel paper away and place cast piece on surface.

Gallery Glass Supplies: Crystal Clear, 8 oz. 16081, Kelly Green 16008, Magenta Royale 16017, Amber 16020, Champagne 16094, Liquid Leading 16076 (or Redi-lead), Tool Set 16225

Other Supplies: Glue Chip Glass, Cracked Ice Styrene Panel, Wooden frame with glass, 8"x20", Craft knife, Needle nose pliers, 2 screw eyes, 3/4" 17" of #16 chain.

Instructions for Framed Panel

Leading: Position glass insert from frame over pattern. Trace with Liquid Leading. Let dry flat overnight.

Casting: Spread colors listed on pattern on indicated effects panels, using palette knife from Tool Set. Let dry overnight. Carefully peel cast color off effects panel. Position over appropriate area on panel. Trim to fit with a craft knife. Press in place.

Finishing: Insert screw eyes in top of frame 4" from edges. Attach chain for hanging.

Black Cat and Pumpkin Gallery Glass

2011-10-03T08:55:00.000-07:00

I thought this was a cute black cat, if there is such a thing--aren't black cats supposed to be bad luck? Maybe, but hopefully this one won't bring anything but crowds of admiring "trick or treat-ers" to your door on Halloween. This panel uses some alternate Gallery Glass finishes combined with the traditional paint.
The first special product that I love for Gallery Glass is Extreme Glitter in the 2 oz. size. I used the Black Extreme Glitter for the Cat. It is opaque, but has that slight glint to it--reminds me of a cat's glistening fur coat. Then I used the Red and the Orange Extreme Glitter for the pumpkin--blending them to create the illusion of roundness. You can use Orange Poppy and Pumpkin Orange, if you don't want to go out and buy the extreme Glitter. But I encourage you to buy all 14 colors in the store or from <plaidonline.com>. They are wonderful additions when you want a metallic sparkle to your Gallery Glass projects.
I put more alternatives in the supplies list. In case you don't have the discontinued Glow in the Dark Mod Podge, Glow Away will work just as well, but don't let it get splashed after the project is cured and be careful cleaning the finished panel, because Glow Away will wash away with water, but it has significant glowing power and for that reason, it is an alternative. You might paint the eyes, nose and mouth of the pumpkin with 16004 Sunny Yellow and let it dry, then put a coating of the Glow Away over the cured coating of yellow. That way, you will have a very yellow glow to your pumpkin's features. I put kitty on a 12" circle, which I happen to have a lot of, but you can do him on an 8x 10" styrene panel or piece of glass from an 8x10" picture frame.

Supplies List:
2797 Black Extreme Glitter
2774 Red Extreme Glitter or 16005 Orange Poppy
2793 Orange Extreme Glitter or 16429 Pumpkin Orange
16002 Snow White
16004 Sunny Yellow
16005 Orange Poppy
16008 Kelly Green
16024 Ivy Green
16035 Lime Green
16095 Black Onyx
16429 Pumpkin Orange
16001 or 16081 Crystal Clear
CS11279 Glow in the Dark Mod Podge or 5042 Glow Away

Celebrate Autumn with Gallery Glass

2011-09-16T05:37:00.000-07:00

This is the beginning of a special time of year. After the long schedule-less days of summer, the exacting routine of school days and the onset of extra-curricular activities with their weekly practices brings a new excitement to the air. The foliage is turning and the landscape is suddenly resplendant with reds, yellows and oranges. Some of the most exciting changes take place in the garden. Vibrant green vines begin to yield succulant fruits and vegetables. Let's celebrate the harvest with Gallery Glass.
The picture above is a 16x20" panel and I will tell you right up front that I didn't paint it. I don't know who did, it was in an old Plaid book and it was not painted by the people who designed the pattern, so the artist is anonymous. I like the pattern and I think that the subject and arrangement are okay. But I'm not crazy about the end results. The leading and painting could have been more expert, but the main problem is scale. The size of the panel is much too small for the amount of detail. Your goal in Gallery Glass should always be BIG, BOLD AND BEAUTIFUL! Also, the photography is not good. The panel was photographed against a white background and even though the actual painted background is clear, you can't see through the panel which hides the texture. The bumpy texture of the clear is one of the virtues of Gallery Glass that allows it to resemble the appearance of REAL stained glass and increases the perceived value of the piece. Here is another example from the same book:

This basket of flowers is a good composition and could be beautiful, but again it suffers from bad technique. And the same white backdrop was used in the photography. I always take pictures of Gallery Glass in a window with natural lighting. That's the best way to highlight the texture because you have "shape" behind the texture or it doesn't show up at all.
I would like to challenge some of you to a contest. See what you can do with these pictures. You have to keep most of the original elements and you must send a picture of it for me to post. I will send you a Gallery Glass gift--just for helping us improve the looks of either of these pictures. I will give you a tip. They both need to be larger than the size they were originally done.
I would go to 18x24" or even better - 24x36" on the Garden Harvest picture. You can buy a poster frame with styrene in it--and you will have a wonderful Autumn Harvest piece to hang in a window--at home or at the office. The Flower basket should be at least a 16x20".
Let's see what you can do. I would also welcome comments about the painting technique. It's not very good. Can you tell me what is wrong with it. Be specific.

These are the colors for the pictures:

16x20" Garden Harvest -Gallery Glass Paints:

01 or 81 Crystal Clear, 02 Snow White, 03 Cameo Ivory, 04 Sunny Yellow, Orange Poppy, 06 Canyon Coral, 07 Cocoa Brown, 08 Kelly Green, 09 Emerald Green, 12 Royal Blue, 14 Amethyst, 15 Ruby Red, 17 Magenta Royale, 18 Charcoal Black, 19 Gold Sparkle, 20 Amber, 24 Ivy Green, 35 Lime Green,

11x14" Flower Basket -Gallery Glass Paints: 01 or 81 Crystal Clear, 02 Snow White, 03 Cameo Ivory, 04 Sunny Yellow, Orange Poppy, 06 Canyon Coral, 07 Cocoa Brown, 08 Kelly Green, 09 Emerald Green, 10 Denim Blue, 11 Blue Diamond, 12 Royal Blue, 14 Amethyst, 15 Ruby Red, 16 Rose Quartz, 20 Amber, 24 Ivy Green

More on Laurie's Gallery Glass Nameplate Gift

2011-09-13T05:40:00.000-07:00

Laurie, our friend from South Carolina, shared this thoughtful gift with us last year along with a tip about leading. Since then, we have devoted a lot of space to Leadng Tips, but I'm not sure we have eliminated any "Outlining stress" for anybody. But I thought you might be interested in seeing the project and then hearing what has come about from Laurie's extension of human kindness.

Help from the "Hopeful"

"I wanted to share a gift I did for some good friends of mine. They had recently purchased a commercial fishing boat (a life long dream). The boat's name is 'Hopefull' and the nautical flags represent their initials. I found the patterns (for the Star/anchor and light houses) surfing the Internet. All the leading (except for HOPEFULL) is Redi-Lead. I did figure out that if I put leading in a smaller bottle (old GG paint bottle) I have better control. Baby Steps!

And today I got this request in an email:
"My friends that I gave the 'HOPEFULL ' sign to want to insert the piece into a door. Their thought was to cut a hole in their current door and sandwich the GG Piece I made between panes of glass, so that the piece would be protected from both sides. The door is their front door and they live in Rhode Island (cold, damp and humid). The door is on a protected porch. The door does not get direct sunlight. I told them I didn't think it would work because GG can't handle humidity. But my friend begged me to ask."

I have an opinion, and it isn't worth much. Of course, NOBODY knows how the combination of humidity, temperature and sunlight will affect this particular unique location. Only time will tell, but here are my answers based on prior experience.
A. It makes a difference whether the painting is on plexiglas, or glass. If it is on glass, the glass will forever expand and contract with temperature changes--expand with heat, contract in cold. That constant expansion and contraction will cause the Gallery Glass to "crack" over time, if not the first winter, then by the next.
If the paint is on plexiglas, this cracking effect will probably NOT happen for 2 reasons. One, plexi doesn't expand and contract as much as glass--maybe not at all, since it will be warmed on one side by the interior of the home. Two, the paint chemically bonds to the plexi because they are very similar--chemically. Gallery Glass can't bond to glass--it is only "floating" on top. Laurie, is it glass, or is it plexi?
B. The temperature and humidity is a problem. Gallery Glass will forever take on moisture during humid times. That's one reason that it works so well for Suncatchers--it helps them remain flexible over a long period of time, rather than getting brittle after curing. But this tendency to take on moisture could be a problem, even though it is protected by a pane of glass in front and back (see Greenhouse Effect). If the temperature is 0 degrees outside, the R factor of glass is so low that it won't be much warmer inside the protective pane of glass. Cracking might still occur.
C The "Greenhouse Effect" is a name that we give a condition that traps humidity inside a closed environment--like the sandwich of glass her friends are proposing. The humidity would get in because of condensation, but couldn't get out, once it was in there. I think that it would cloud up on the inside and there wouldn't be any way to clean it off.

So here's my suggestion, based on the conditions you described. I would do the reverse design (mirror image) to what you are seeing in the picture --on a piece of 1/8" plexiglass cut to the size that will work best in their door. And then they can install it in the door with the paint facing the inside of the house. The back side will be smooth, but once all the paint was dry, I would turn it over and --using Redi-Lead--I would outline JUST THE LEAD LINES (no paint), so that the main lines of the design stick out on the back. This will make the door insert look much better from the outside when visitors come up on the porch. This shouldn't be too hard, Laurie admits that she did the original design with Redi-Lead. I would even put the HOPEFUL on the back side with Liquid Leading--lining everything up as perfectly as possibly using the completed piece as a guide. The width of the plexi will almost disappear and it will look very much like a real the H channel came leading on a real stained glass window--which only has texture on one side--the back side is smooth because most all stained glass is hand-rolled. The Redi-Lead outline that will face the weather should be impervious to humidity and temperature. And if there ever IS any damage, the leading strips can easily be replaced because it is just adhesive backed strips that have a weather resistant adhesive on them. The pretty painted part of the design is all INSIDE the house where it is warm and toasty! But the wonderful thing is--it will look the same in the daytime, and at night it will give a beautiful view to neighbors. The bad news is--I would do the design one more time--and create a custom insert for the "door makeover".

What do you think, folks? Your opinion is as good as mine. I've never lived in Rhode Island, but I've lived in Grand Forks, ND and I can tell you--that cold weather is brutal!

Stained Glass Gifts to Give or Keep - Birds and Animals

2011-09-12T09:27:00.000-07:00

We've been looking for gifts to make for the holidays. What about children? They're often not as thrilled to get a craft that is already made--as they are to get one that THEY can make! Who can blame them? Here's an idea. Lead the picture and buy the paint colors to go with it. Or if you have some old pots of Gallery Glass that are nearly used up. Open the lids and let the paint dry for a few days. Once it is hard, pull out the old paint and fill them with the colors that will be required to complete the leaded panel. You have, in essence, made a personalized or customized "kit" to give to your favorite youngster at holiday time. In fact, this is an excellent way to send Gallery Glass to those children who don't live near you. You don't have to worry about it getting damaged during shipping. Plaid has a package of two 8x10" styrene blanks that will work wonderfully for this project. They are affordable and unbreakable. Here are some possible designs that your children, grandchildren, nieces and nephews might relate to. Check our post under this one for some kid appropriate food projects. Kids still like to eat, and painting food is getting pretty close!

Here are the patterns most can be done on either 8x10" or 11x14"--perfect sizes for those aspiring artists.

Gallery Glass Paints: These are the paints that were used in all the projects. Check the color numbers that appear in your pattern to narrow it down to your project's color list.

01 or 81 Crystal Clear, 02 Snow White, 03 Cameo Ivory, 04 Sunny Yellow, Orange Poppy, 06 Canyon Coral, 07 Cocoa Brown, 08 Kelly Green, 09 Emerald Green, 10 Denim Blue, 11 Blue Diamond, 12 Royal Blue, 13 Slate Blue, 14 Amethyst, 15 Ruby Red, 16 Rose Quartz, 17 Magenta Royale, 18 Charcoal Black, 19 Gold Sparkle, 10 Amber, 21 Shite Pearl, 22 Clear Frost, 23 Berry Red, 24 Ivy Green, 35 Lime Green, 36 Turquoise, 37 Sapphire, 44 Etching Medium, 94 Champagne, 95 Champagne, 95 Black Onyx, 96 Celadon Green

Stained Glass Gifts to Give or Keep- Food

2011-09-09T05:26:00.000-07:00

It's time to start thinking about the upcoming holiday season and gifts to plan now for family and friends. During this downturned economy, many people are looking for ways to recycle and re-style. Even if that is not your primary goal, you may be attracted to the concept of "double giving". Gallery Glass is the "gift that gives twice". First, you get the joy and pleasure of hands on creativity, then your friend gets a gift that is unique and attractive with a high perceived value. Isn't it wonderful that Gallery Glass just happens to look like something that is ten times more expensive?
I want to do a series of posts on frameable art. Go down to the basement and check against the walls or look behind the clothes in the closet and find those outdated forgotten picture frames with glass. They usually come in standard sizes--8"x10", 11"x14" or 16"x20". Those are the sizes that I am going to focus on for the next week, or so.
The first post focuses on kitchen and food related art. It is practically my favorite subject. If I'm not eating it, I'd just as soon be painting it. They resemble still life paintings and are wonderful small gifts for your "secret pal", a co-worker or your Bridge partner. Because who doesn't love food?

Aren't they fun. You can click on any one of them, which should bring them up on a separate screen. Then print out the design and enlarge it to fit your frame. They were originally presented as 8x10"s but you could enlarge them to 11x14 and have more room for the detail. The lobster was leaded in our Silver Metallic leading. It will have a slightly different look if you lead it in black. I will attach the patterns, but you may want to print out the picture to study while you're doing your project. Have fun and get your holiday spirit UP! Get Crafty!

Gallery Glass Paints: These are the paints that were used in all the projects. Check the color numbers that appear in your pattern to narrow it down to your project's color list.

01 or 81 Crystal Clear, 02 Snow White, 03 Cameo Ivory, 04 Sunny Yellow, Orange Poppy, 06 Canyon Coral, 07 Cocoa Brown, 08 Kelly Green, 09 Emerald Green, 10 Denim Blue, 11 Blue Diamond, 12 Royal Blue, 13 Slate Blue, 14 Amethyst, 15 Ruby Red, 16 Rose Quartz, 17 Magenta Royale, 18 Charcoal Black, 19 Gold Sparkle, 20 Amber, 21 White Pearl, 22 Clear Frost, 23 Berry Red, 24 Ivy Green, 35 Lime Green, 36 Turquoise, 37 Sapphire, 44 Etching Medium, 94 Champagne, 95 Champagne, 95 Black Onyx, 96 Celadon Green

Halloween Clings and a Bradford-inspired challenge!

2011-08-29T05:31:00.000-07:00

I love to get feedback from our wonderful Gallery Glass Crafters and I want to thank Bradford for his comment after our first post on Clings. It reminded me to fill you in on the technique of putting clings together to make a larger design. You can review both the long form and the short (printable) form of this technique in two previous posts located just under this one.
Bradford also mentioned that he needs to get busy on some Halloween clings because it is time to start thinking SPOOKY! Wouldn't it be fun to see if we can get some of YOU-- to design a spooky scene and share it with us? I will work on one, as well. That way, we can begin to celebrate the 2nd most popular holiday of the year--early this year! Here a few ideas to get you started.

Making Clings into a Window Design - with Gallery Glass

2011-08-29T05:23:00.000-07:00

It's back to school time with it's emphasis on sports-- and Fall holidays are coming up. You will want to celebrate each and every one with Clings. Some can be made into a themed overall window design and others are great for just the occasional temporary holiday motif on the window. I love to decorate my kitchen window over the sink with the Clings of the season. It helps me to focus on upcoming events so that I can maximize my efforts toward that holiday in a timely manner. Here are some designs that will get you through to Halloween. To download the pattern, click on the image, then press print. You will get the entire pattern sheet and you can enlarge it to a size that you want. Don't make Clings larger than your hand because they will not store as well and have a tendency to fold up on themselves. It's better to divide a large image into several parts and place them next to each other if you are making a larger decoration.

Now for the printable instructions that I promised in the last post. You can see the longer description of each step in the process in the post below called Making Clings with Gallery Glass. Notice the instructions for doing a window design near the bottom.

Making Clings with Gallery Glass

2011-08-29T04:44:00.000-07:00

I want to expand on the category of Clings for a few days. Here is what I would call the "long form" instructions. If you are a beginner, you will benefit from these tips and techniques. I will do a short form printable instructions in the next post--for those who would like a refresher course.

How to Make Clings
Gallery Glass Clings are easy and fun to make These are two simple steps to follow:
First, lead the designs with Liquid Leading.
Next, fill in the areas created by the lead borders with Gallery Glass paint.

Positioning Your Pattern
Choose a Cling design, draw your own design, or adapt one from another source such as a coloring book. Place the pattern under a GG Leading Blank with the smooth side up. Clings will not stick to the window, if make on the rough side of the Leading Blank.
Surface Alternative: Trace the designs for your project, cut them out, and tape them onto a piece of cardboard that will fit into a food storage bag. Make the Clings on the outside of the bag. Peel off and use the bag for new designs.

Outlining the Cling Design with Liquid Leading

Clinging Suncatchers with Gallery Glass

2011-08-22T07:39:00.000-07:00

Summer Food

I don't know that I've ever done a post on "Clings", and I'm not sure why. We have had a tremendous emphasis on "Clings" in the past and they continue to be the most popular reason to buy Gallery Glass. So let's talk about them. I think we should start at the very beginning--surface. Luckily, the "Cling" surface (the Re-usable Leading Blank) is one of the few surfaces that is not discontinued, so right away, that's a plus. If you get excited about the concept, you can easily get the supplies to share it with your children, or create a class for your friends. At the end of the project, you'll find that it's the easiest technique of all to complete--because you don't have to find a way to hang it in the window. You just peel--and stick. Easy, right? Not only that, but there's no adhesive and the "Clings" are re-usable and can be stored for display next time the season rolls around. By the way, I have one pet peeve, it's leaving Gallery Glass projects up--that are for a completely different holiday. Be pro-active, peel them off and store properly, the day after the holiday ends. Now, it would take up entirely too much memory to give you the line designs and all the color keys, so here's the deal. Click on the picture above and print it out. Then enlarge it on your copier so that the images are the size that you want them to be for your project. The colors are simple and easily determined, although I would encourage you to pick your own colors. Here are the colors that we used on the examples that were photographed in these first 2 selections. There will be more as we get into the coming season.

Supplies: 16001 Crystal Clear, 16002 Snow White, 16003 Cameo Ivory, 16004 Sunny Yellow, 16005 Orange Poppy, 16007 Cocoa Brown, 16008 Kelly Green, 16011 Blue Diamond, 16015 Ruby Red, 16016 Rose Quartz, 16018 Charcoal Black, 16019 Gold Sparkle, 16020 Amber, 16023 Berry Red, 16035 Lime Green, 16036 Turquoise, 16017 Sapphire.

Summer Fun

Fall can be Cheer-ful with Gallery Glass - 10" round

2011-08-22T02:46:00.000-07:00

Falling leaves and tolling school bells bring to mind one thing--football. School sports are enjoyed by the young and the young at heart. And what better way to broadcast your team spirit than with a unique football suncatcher customized with your teams official colors. This design is easy to adapt because it suggests placement for the primary and secondary team colors. The team logo can also be added to the center section for the ultimate tribute.

The 10" round blank is discontinued, but there are a number of alternate surfaces. The party supply stores market a good selection of clear plastic plates. Look for those that are approx. 10" in diameter. You can shrink or enlarge the design to fit the surface. After your round project is dry, you can melt a hole in the top edge of the plastic plate so that it can be hung from a suction cup or outfitted with a 12" piece of ribbon for hanging to a door knob or window sash lock button. This is a very inexpensive way for the kids to make customized gifts for friends, fellow team mates, coaches, fans, parents and teachers. IDEA! It might even make a good fund raiser. Be sure to research and respect all copyrights. Be sure that you propose the idea to the proper authorities at any school before you duplicate their logo. You can, however, do the colors as shown, even if the logos is prohibited.

Supplies: Primary Team Color, Secondary Team Color, 16001, Crystal Clear, 16002 Snow White, 16007 Cocoa Brown, 16851 Green Shimmer, 16216 10" Round Blank, 16076 Liquid Leading.

Bonnie Coordinates her Foyer with Gallery Glass

2011-08-18T09:58:00.000-07:00

I got this email recently from Bonnie, our reader in Louisiana. She says, "My front door is already leaded glass in the mission style. I wish to paint some of the sections with colors that compliment my foyer. Are there any detailed instructions on how to paint vertically with Gallery Glass,spread evenly and remove air bubbles on a vertical surface?" I referred her to some of our posts on painting vertically and gave her some additional tips and techniques. ("Painting Windows by Vertical Method" under Window Makeovers category to the right of home page.)

A few days later, I got this response, "You can see that the gold is just what I wanted. The Autumn Gallery Glass on the left of the panel was mixed with clear 1/2 and 1/2 and is much too orange. I painted Berry Red on the panel on the right. It is more the color--but much too pink. The light fixture that I'm trying to match is maroon--a dark burgundy."
I told her the bad news--there's no way to make a color of Gallery Glass darker. You can lighten it with Crystal Clear and you can make it into a pastel by mixing with Snow White, but you can't make it darker unless you can add pure colorants that are used to create the color. Since my office is next door to the Research Lab, I was able to obtain a variety of red dyes, some black, etc. --and sent them to her. There was a while that I didn't hear from her and thought maybe the project had failed and she had given up,

Yesterday, I got this email with pictures which I am eager to share with you."Well, Carol, you probably thought I forgot about you but here I am again. If you've noticed an upswing in the amount of Gallery Glass you are selling at Hobby Lobby in Baton Rouge IT'S BECAUSE OF ME! Hobby Lobby must be wondering what it takes to keep Berry Red on the shelf!! I tried every combination of Berry Red and the colorants you sent. My talents are very limited in this area. Anyway every mixture was a failure. Out of frustration I put Berry Red on my door (3 coats) and every coat looked better and better. They say "less is more". In this case MORE was more!, 3 coats did the trick and I LOVE IT. Here are some pics to show the finished project. Now I am thinking of what project to take on next --considering I have all of this "extra" Gallery Glass paint!"

Ahhh, how satisying it is --when you finally hit the "sweet spot" in a project. I apologized for not telling her to put on multiple coats in the first place. That is the only way to darken a color, other than thicker application. However, when applying the paint vertically, you really can't vary the depth of application like you can when you're working horizontally. So the only way to thicken the color is to let it dry--one layer at a time and re-apply until you get the color you are looking for. As you can see, it took some time for Bonnie to get it just right, but it was well worth the effort. Her door is gorgeous and only she and her husband will know that the borders weren't "born" that way. Good job, Bonnie! Thank you for sharing your project. We can all learn from your experimentation and perseverance.

Bach to School with Gallery Glass - 10" round

2011-08-18T08:48:00.000-07:00

Now that the kids are back in school, every one's mind turns to pencils, apples, school bells and CRAFTS. What better way to celebrate this much anticipated annual event than with a colorful Back to School Suncatcher that everyone will enjoy.

The 10" round blank is discontinued (boo hoo) but there are a number of alternate surfaces. The party supply stores market a good selection of clear plastic plates. Look for those that are approx. 10" in diameter. You can shrink or enlarge the design to fit the surface. After your round project is dry, you can melt a hole in the top edge of the plastic plate so that it can be hung from a suction cup or outfitted with a 12" piece of ribbon for hanging to a door knob or window sash lock button. This is a very inexpensive way for the kids to make gifts for friends and teachers.

Supplies needed: 16001 Crystal Clear, 16008 Kelly Green, 16015 Ruby Red, 16019 Gold Sparkle, 16425 Citrus Yellow, 16216 10" Round Blank, 16225 Gallery Glass Tool Set, 16076 Liquid Leading.

Color or Clear--Gallry Glass Windows - which will it be?

2011-08-03T05:02:00.000-07:00

Let's talk about designing your window makeover. I have a preference and you have probably noted it from previous posts. I prefer large areas of clear texture in my window makeovers. Not because I don't LIKE color, but for several reasons which I will share. I think Crystal Clear works best as a background color.

There is a covenant in many neighborhoods (mine included) that doesn't allow any color of window covering to be visible from the outside of the house, except white. So for that reason, all my street-side Gallery Glass windows have to be made up of CLEAR textures.
So, you can see why I became programmed to counsel people who were contemplating window makeovers to be alert to the fickle preferences of their home owner association. They normally have the best interests of the neighborhood in mind and try to prevent individual tastes from infringing on the rights of peripheral neighbors--which I agree is an important aspect. But not all windows are on the front of the house. And seriously--what we put on the back of our home--can be a little more trendy, right?
The design that we did for a nursery (above) is a good example of "Clear with Color Accents". It is tasteful, but blends beautifully with the primary colors on the walls and furnishings.
Before you begin your window makeover project, ask yourself--what will it look like at night? That's the only time that anyone on the street will REALLY see it. You don't want to send the wrong message. Clear textures can be used without question, but colors should be used sparingly--in my opinion.

Group Fun at Plaid

2011-08-01T04:15:00.000-07:00

Once in a while we stop the music and just dance! Yes, my Sunday School Class was determined to have a tour of the "home of Gallery Glass", which to the lay person is Plaid Enterprises. We met at the church and carpooled down to the corporate offices in Norcross. People are sometimes disappointed because they think that Plaid will be like one big Michael's store with product hanging everywhere and people making craft projects on every available flat surface, but unfortunately, it's not "Craft Heaven". Plaid looks very much like a normal corporate office with cubes and filing cabinets, although there are a few whimsical areas that the class really enjoyed seeing. In the picture above, we are in the customer conference room where there really are bottles of product hanging from gondolas (the pegboard racks). Everyone enjoyed seeing all the Plaid products in one room. But there was only 1 of each item and not a cash register in sight, so nobody could buy anything. Bummer.

Then we took a look at the Creative Design Area. This is usually the only place at Plaid where actual crafting occurs. It has shelves and shelves of blank surfaces and racks and racks of every color of paint--in every category,-- getting closer to each person's dream job. In the afternoon we went on a plant tour and saw how Gallery Glass is made. We saw the vats where the paint is mixed and the filling line where the liquid is squirted into the bottles on a narriw conveyor. As the bottle moves down the line, machines drop the tip, the cap, the label, and the shrink band. When all these parts are in place, the bottles are swept into a machine that bundles 6 bottles together. It's an amazing process. We enjoyed seeing all the warehouse racks --with acres and acres of brown boxes stacked all the way to the top of the 20' ceiling--amazing how they ever find anything. But it was July in Georgia--not a cool, comfortable place to be. Our admiration for the loyal Plaid employees mounted with every step.

Once the tour was over, we noticed that we had worked up quite an appetite. Luckily there is a local deli close to the church where we feasted and discussed plans for Summer Gallery Glass projects. All in all, it was a wonderful Saturday afternoon, even though it was a tad warm. Our hearts and hats to go off to the wonderful people at Plaid who work in less than ideal conditions to bring us "magic" in a bottle. Thanks, Plaid employees. Keep it up!

Plaid celebrates Old Glory!

2011-06-23T03:02:00.000-07:00

Plaid joined people across the United States to celebrate Flag Day on June 14th this year to honor the United States flag and to commememorate the flag's adoption. Flag Day falls within National Flag Week, a time when Americans reflect on the foundations of the nation's freedom. The flag of the United States represents freedom and has been an enduring symbol of the country's ideals since its early days. During both events, Americans also remember their loyalty to the nation, reaffirm their belief in liberty and justice, and observe the nation's unity.
In 1777 the Continental Congress replaced the British symbols of the Grand Union flag with a new design featuring 13 white stars in a circle on a field of blue and 13 red and white stripes - one for each state. Although it is not certain, this flag may have been made by Philadelphia seamstress Betsy Ross, who was an official flag maker for the Pennsylvania Navy. The number of stars increased as the new states entered the Uniton, but the number of stripes stopped at 15 and was later returned to 13.
To celebrate Flag Week and as a build up to the 4th of July, I chose to create a Gallery Glass interpretation of an oil painting by Childe Hassam, (1859-1935), Allies Day, May 1917. I found the line drawing in a Dover book entitled Color Your own American Paintings by Marty Nobile, which features line drawings of 30 American masterpieces. ISPN 10: 0486445267. You can order this book on http://www.doverpublishing.com/ for $3.95.

Patriot Gallery Glass - We love the Red, White and Blue

2011-06-23T02:31:00.000-07:00

The reason flag colors are so popular in the summer is because all 3 holidays have something to do with patriotism and being proud of our heritage. I love to make these flag plaques for the kids at the hospital because I know that they will leave it hanging until school starts and they replace it with sports themes. It also makes a great summer gift for older Americans who remember the Great War or had relatives who fought bravely for our country and the democratic principles that we support worldwide.

Even though Father's Day is not yet here, we have to move ahead of the season a bit so that they can make the plaques and hang them or give them as gifts well in advance of the holiday.

So here are 4 of my favorites. The combination at the top are my very favorite July 4th designs because they are so traditional. Perfect for any holiday celebration--large or small. The colors are bright and cheerful, but I needed a 4th color so I chose hologram glitter for the stars in the panel on the left. . I also used the same glitter in the Uncle Sam's hat that is pictured above for the whoosh's. The designs in this blog are perfect for 4th of July picnics, Vacation Bible School projects and campground craft classes. The are timely and also very simple to do, so they can be done quickly and effectively in a group setting. It should only take each crafter 10 to 15 minutes, so the stations can turn over fast enough to keep the line moving.

Another of my favorite designs is the more free form flag motif of the design on the right.

To create these simple designs, simply click on the image, which will bring it up on a screen by itself. Then you can print it out on plain copier paper. If you are doing it on the 10" blank, you will need to enlarge the design to fit the blank. If you don't have the round blanks, you can do the hearts as the smaller size and duplicate them on the leading blank and mount them on the window as suncatchers.
Gallery Glass Supplies:
Snow White 16002, Ruby Red 16015, 16011 Blue Diamond, 160442 Hologram Glitter, 16074 Black Liquid Leading.

Lynn Morgan paints her Garage Windows

2011-06-16T03:14:00.000-07:00

Lynn Morgan is a happy girl--because she has just installed her most recent window project. You may remember the bathroom window that she and her husband, Richard, created as their first Gallery Glass window project? If not, you can read the story in the Window Makeover category. The short story is--it was a huge success. In fact, ever since tax season was over, Lynn has been looking for a design to adapt for three windows in her garage. Since the windows are on the front of the house --close to the bathroom window that they had done, they felt like it needed to be compatible with the first window--both color-wise and design-wise. So they came to my home workshop and started looking for a design that would fit two long skinny windows and one short squatty one. We eventually found what Richard believed was the perfect design. It was too long for the skinny windows--and looked impossible to adapt for the double-hung one, but we all decided that it was THE ONE. So, with the aid of my miracle Canon copier, I was able to adjust the x-y measurements to fit one of them by just removing the top and bottom border. Then I extended it wider and shortened it to fit the small double-hung window. Here is what the line design looked like.

As you can see, the design is distorted somewhat in the shorter version, but it would be a lot more noticeable, if the two sets of windows were NOT the same design.So we were ready to begin. Lynn has a client who customizes acrylic sheets and he was generous enough to cut some panels to fit all 3 of her windows, so that she would be able to do the designs at her craft table rather than having to stand in front of the windows in the (hot) garage to paint them.
So let's see the Before shots of the nice windows that we are working with and go from there. Lynn has a beautiful front yard but that wasn't the problem. Even though it's a garage, privacy is a bit of an an issue. Sometimes you just like to hide the stuff that is stored along with your automobile. The other problem was heat--very hot in the afternoon with no window covering. Blinds get dusty and curtains are impossible, so Gallery Glass is likely to be the most practical window treatment.

We started with the long windows because there are two of them and you can duplicate-- faster than you can create new--an important factor to remember when you are working on a large project with several parts. The finished size of the panels is 23.5"x 58.75". Most of the colors were used in the bathroom window, but that window is a different design. However, there is a considerable span of native stone between the bathroom and the garage windows, and they are both geometric designs, so the style of the windows works well together. She worked through the color scheme and decided what colors from the bathroom window she was planning to repeat, then added Cameo Ivory as a marbleizing background color with Cocoa Brown so that it will blend with the dark brown walls in the garage.

After making sure that we had enough paint to do all three windows with the same color scheme, she was ready to begin. The panels were leaded with a good thick application of Liquid Leading and allowed to cure for several days. This is a good idea if you are doing a lot of marbleizing colors together. It took Lynn many weeks to do the 2 panels in her bathroom. It was her first big project and she was very careful to make every section--perfect. But she did all four of these panels in a week. We let them cure a few days to make sure the paint around the edges was cured enough to move and on Saturday before a big pool party, we cleaned the windows thoroughly--inside and out, then used the point gun to hold the panels in place. The smaller window blends with the larger panels and matches very well, even though we had to manipulate (widen) the line design in order to incorporate all the same elements. The star in the center of the design had to be split because this is a double-hung window that has a sash in the middle. But you really don't notice that when you are standing in the garage looking at all three.

Because there is a lot of the translucent colored paint in the panels, they also can be seen during the daytime from the outside. Color schemes with only transparent colors, often don't show up at all in the daytime, from the outside. But remember, what you see from the inside in the daytime--is what your neighbors see when they drive by your home at night. So everyone gets to enjoy the full effect!

Congratulations, Lynn and Richard, you have done a fabulous job--once again.

Horizontal, Modular and Vertical Application Methods- PRINTABLE INSTRUCTIONS

2011-06-03T07:32:00.000-07:00

Previously, I have tried to explain in very detailed posts (that were project specific)--ALL the application methods, horizontal, modular and vertical. But the instructions are not printable, and several readers have been disappointed that they could not print them out to study as they were doing their project.

So I have an idea--to scan the explanation of each method from some of our old books--as attachments--and you should be able to click on the page and it will come up by itself on a separate screen. Then you can press print preview to make sure you are going to get it all--then print it out, so that you can put it in your files and compare the various methods of applying Gallery Glass whenever you are planning a project. Choosing the application method is about the first step to completing a window makeover, so you will be on the right track with your supplies list.

The first method is the one that is most popular, and the one that Gallery Glass artists have used for decades-- the horizontal method. It is used for picture frames that have glass in them(framable art), injection molded blanks, suncatchers made on leading blanks and any other surface that will lie flat enough for the leading and painting.

It is also used for window makeover "inserts"--the method of cutting clear panels to the identical size of window panes --leading and painting the design--and then using a point gun or pressure points to affix the "inserts" against the glass. This works well because the edge of the "insert" is rarely visible to most people and it is so much faster and easier than the modular or the vertical method. It is also the easiest way to change your mind--and do a new design--or just have the plain windows again. The example to the left is a perfect example of an insert--chosen because it was much too detailed to do vertical and too "interlaced" to do modular.

Now let's explore the Modular method. It is used for "complicated windows that you could not possibly do one strip at a time. You make "suncatchers" of many of the elements of the design and let them dry on the leading blanks. When they are fully cured, you peel them up and arrange them on the window according to the design plan. Many times, you add straight strips with Redi-Lead and even paint the background of the window vertically. This "finishing" creates more of a finished look and also seals the suncatchers on so that they cannot be accidentally removed. It is hard to tell a modular design, but if there are some intricate curves, or if there is a lot of detail, it is probably a good candidate for the modular method. Notice the repetition of the 2 flower motifs in the window to the left. The stems and window box were added with Redi-Lead to tie the flowers and leaves together.

I am often asked to explain the Vertical Method. That is the method that only Gallery Glass Window Color can accomplish. It is the only glass paint in the marketplace that is thick enough to be applied vertically. One very important requirement of the vertical application concerns the viscosity (thickness) of the paint. I recommend that you always test the supplies that you plan to use for vertical application on the window where it will be used. Start applying the prospective paint in a back and forth motion, squeezing and spreading. If the pool of paint "runs", then I would plan on buying a fresh bottle. Gallery Glass gets thinner as it ages, so therefore new unopened bottles will yield better results.

This method is used primarily to save money by not having to buy "inserts" and for window design installations that have fairly straight lines and gentle curves. Also they should be fairly open because standing in front of a window for hours and hours, can be quite taxing. But sometimes it is worth it to save the $100+ dollars for inserts! Look at the step by steps to see how this particular window was done.

Honor the Fathers in your life with Gallery Glass

2011-06-02T06:19:00.000-07:00

We honored the Mothers last month, now it's Dad's turn. What a wonderful idea someone had-- to have a national day of "honoring" for both parents. The special days are observed by almost all the diverse groups that make up this great country. Because having parents is universal--everybody had start out with a set. Lots of people have a good relationship with them and these special days challenge us to make those relationships even better--every year when they roll around. (Wait for it...........)

In my mind, Gallery Glass is a perfect way to spread it on thick because it is a gift they can't eat or wear--so it doesn't go away when you do. It's nice that special diets and "hard to find sizes" don't matter. In my mind, it's the "one size fits all" commemorative plaque. There are several ways to approach the project for fathers. You could go with the historical favorite "Man's Best Friend" motif. I couldn't pick out the "best" color scheme, so I decided to show you both of them. The style of the dog is a bit generic, but you could possibly tailor it to your man's favorite breed with a little imagination. It could become a Golden Retriever by just leaving off the spots and painting him Amber.

The second approach is to go for Dad's favorite hobbies to commemorate his status. I posted this example to show you the idea, but you could probably come up with a more appropriate icon for the Dad in your life. The only problem is that all the oval blanks are gone, unless you had some stashed away somewhere. But this motif is small enough to be a suncatcher. You could do it on a reusable leading blank and then peel it off and apply it to one of his windows. I would change the "green" a little, however, if I were doing it as a suncatcher. Make it a little more "backyard pool" shaped instead of egg shaped. That would look more realistic.

The third approach is to give him an "award". Give him a blue ribbon (it's his favorite color) for being a great dad. Sometimes the easiest alternative is also the best one. Again, no oval blank, but you can do it as a suncatcher and apply it to the window closest to his favorite chair, where he will be able to stare at it after you leave and remember you fondly.

There is another smaller dog that would also make a good suncatcher. This is a beagle type dog and is really cute.

I'm not going to post a pattern for these items. They are simple enough that you can just click on the image. It will take you to an isolated screen that you can print it out from. If anyone has any trouble with that--email me and I will send you the patterns.

Bradford's Elegant Light Fixture Panel

2011-05-31T11:26:00.000-07:00

Bradford is our most popular reader--both for his expertise, (which we all enjoy him sharing with us)--and for his comments and questions about the projects of other contributors. He is always uplifting and complimentary. That's a wonderful quality and we love him for it.
Today, he has shared pictures of another one of his wonderful projects. And this is what he told me about it............"here are a couple of pictures of a project I did for a friend years ago...It is of an overhead lighting fixture in a guest bathroom....I don't think the pattern for this come from a book but rather one of the packets that had a pattern sheet and idea sheet years ago"
Neither can I remember where the ivy patterns came into the picture. We did them in several different books. It was a very popular design in one of the QVC kits and I demonstrated it a lot--for years. Everyone seems to remember it the most--because it was the demo and also because of the popularity of ivy. It was the #1 selling design for several years in a row.

So Bradford's explanation is all we know about the bathroom light fixture project, but I wonder what the rest of the room looked like. Many times people will do a design that repeats an icon or motif that is somewhere else in the decorating scheme. Chances are--there were more ivy leaves. If not before they finished, then certainly after the panel was put in place. His panel turned out so beautiful --someone would have been inspired to expand the theme. I would probably want to see this border repeated around the 3 upper edges of the vanity mirror--especially if it was a slab mirror without a frame. You could make a lot of ivy leaves as suncatchers and stick them in a random pattern around the 2 sides and upper edge of the mirror-- and then use Etching Medium as the background to dull the area of mirror outside and around the ivy. Etching medium is the perfect mirror effect, because it creates a colorless contrast to the part that you leave open in the center and creates an effective framing effect. And it's easy enough to clean, occasionally. Just wipe (gently) with a cloth sprayed with window cleaner. Be careful to leave the center and bottom of the mirror open because they have to be cleaned every week.

I got so excited about the ivy leaves motif, that I dug around and found some additional ivy projects that could have gone along with this ceiling panel. I didn't find a mirror with ivy around it, but I found a window and some accessories. Bradford, forgive me for slipping in on your project, but it inspired me to share MORE!
Here is the window. It could have been done by making the leaves as suncatchers and arranging them in a pleasing way on the window, then adding Redi-Lead or cured leading strips for the tendrils. Each of these leaves has white combed into the green around the edge. It gives the ivy leaves a different look.

Here are some accessories that you could do with the same leaves. In this case, it also makes more sense to do them as suncatchers and arrange them FIRST, then add tendrils and Crystal Clear for the background to hold them all in place.

Speaking of Irises and Doorways--

2011-05-24T07:45:00.000-07:00

Before there was Gallery Glass, what was a person to do with a wide open door and sidelights like this? You may be thinking--who would pick such an arrangement? Let me assure you that there are many such homes in my neighborhood with the same half doorlight--or worse--a full view doorlight. I have often thought that it is the result of a builder's sense of humor--the same builder who puts the biggest window in the house--right over the tub--where you would want the MOST privacy! Or maybe a builder who has a brother-in-law, who sells window treatments. Because the first thing you have to do is cover those lovely windows with some kind of covering. Otherwise your neighbors can write out of log of what the family wears to bed and watches on TV. My point is--what are you going to do--if NOT Gallery Glass? The alternatives are not pretty--mini binds, fluted curtains or some fancy paper shades. A more expensive alternative is probably plantation shutters, but then you could have added a finished basement or bought a new car with the money.

So let's talk about how you go about this project. First, this scenario is probably going to require the vertical application technique. The door and sidelights can't be painted horizontally because they are already in place. However, they have wood molding around the glass, so inserts would be possible. But, as much vibration as doors and sidelights get from the constant slamming of the door by the kids--I wouldn't use them. I would recommend doing the design directly on the window--for stability and wearability. So the first thing you need to do is coordinate the patterns of the door and windows. Notice that the design in the corners of the sidelights visually "frames" the design in the door. And the S curve is actually adapted from an element in the lower section of the doorlight. Otherwise the sidelights are really simple--so as not to compete with the simple and elegant door design. Once the pattern is complete, you need to cut off all borders and tape it to the outside of the window before you start the Redi-Lead process. After spot soldering the conntecting points of the leading with Liquid leading, you are ready to paint. Few people realize that you can apply the paint on a vertical surface. You start at the top of each section and work down. It doesn't run unless you apply too much. Notice how well the texture of the Crystal Clear obscures the image of the furniture and even the dark doorway that is visible in the top picture. The color scheme is very sinple--only Etching Medium and Crystal Clear. If you wanted to add another texture, you might consider the Clear Shimmer. I love the way it looks from the outside when the light hits it.

Of course, once you have an elegant door, you'll realize that it's time to refurbish the entry hall. First we painted the walls a wonderful Sunflower color. Then the column shapes were masked-off and painted white and the column tops and the grooves were stenciled in Gold Leaf. Floral Iris prints were decoupaged on door panels. The accessories were crafted to match the decor. The rug was created with quilter's tape and coordinating paint on the back side of a linoleum scrap, cut to the desired size. The re-purposed umbrella stand was painted and antiqued and the same flower elements that were used on the door--were decoupaged on the front. It's a sensational finish to a door and entry hall makeover. And the cost was minimal because the Gallery Glass only costs about $3/foot. People will think you spent a whole lot more.

Here's a Big Tip: If you want to make a big impression, you can duplicate the leaded outlines made by the Redi-lead on the inside of the doorlight and sidelights --on the OUTSIDE of the house. We don't recommend paint for the outside, but the Redi-Lead is weather-proof and will be fine outdoors without paint to hold it on. This makes the outlines of the Gallery Glass treatment look like H channel leading, which will fool almost everyone into thinking that you have installed REAL stained glass. What's the harm? If they don't ask, don't tell them. It can be our secret!

Gallery Glass Supplies: 16081 Crystal Clear, 16044 Etching Medium, Redi-Lead or Liquid Leading.

Bring the Outdoors In--follow up!

2011-05-23T06:08:00.000-07:00

I love it when our blog inspires people to do a project. Especially, a window makeover, because this type of project can really have an impact on your lifestyle. Rebecca Crowfoot knew the minute she saw "Bring the Outdoors In" that the lattice design was the one for her front door. She has a solid door, also, but she wanted to be able to leave that door open so she could let the sun shine IN--something that her cute little dog "Bailey"--really loves. So we made a date for Saturday morning and got started about 10am. Right off the bat, I broke my long standing rule--always take a "before" picture BEFORE! What was I thinking? By the time we thought of it, we had finished the leading and had started painting it. But with a little imagination, you can see what Rebecca has been accustomed to looking at. There is beautiful wooded area directly across from the deck, but the sideways view left her in clear view of passers by on the street.

She always felt a little uncomfortable about the open view, especially when unannounced visitors happened to show up on the doorstep. That's the reason she thought that Gallery Glass would be a good solution. She could have privacy but still distinguish shapes, and the visitors couldn't see inside until she was ready to open the door. So Gallery Glass is a clear alternative because any other type of window treatment would not have accomplished her goals. ( Sorry, I should have taken the pattern down from the middle of the window before I clicked.)
We taped the pattern to the top half of the window on the outside and began the Redi-Leading process. She was amazed that you could create an outline with strips that were all the same width (1/8") and had adhesive on the back--without having to squeeze them out of the bottle and let them dry first. We used a GG razor cutting tool to trim and fit the strips together at the proper points. The touched up the connections with Liquid Leading. Rebecca was impressed by how easy the process wast and it went quickly. When we got to the bottom pane, we had to transfer to the front of the glass with graphite paper because of the screen on the outside. But it didn't take long. We leaded in the morning, had lunch, and then painted in the afternoon. It was fun and exhausting at the same time. I had to leave about 3pm, but Rebecca forged on alone and finished the painting at 5:30. It was a warm day and the paint dried really quickly. By the time it got dark, the window was mostly dry. We had completely made over her door in just one day! IT IS GORGEOUS!

Now in all fairness to Plaid, I should clarify that the area between a storm door and the solid door--is an uncontrolled environment. If you have spent any time reading the cautions in the lower right hand corner of the blog home page, the verbage specifically states that Gallery Glass is not intended for this type of situation-- which also includes garages, automobiles and travel trailers. In fact, our storm door project defies almost all of the cautions--including contact with water, contact with heavy condensation, temperatures below 45 degrees and over 90 degrees. However, in Georgia, the temperatures are comparatively mild and Rebecca and I are using this window as a test project. I have had Gallery Glass on windows in garages and other NON-recommended places, with satisfactory results, so we'll see what happens. I really think it will be fine, but we'll keep you posted.......

Congratulations, Rebecca, you've graduated to the next level of GG stardom. Last month, you learned to squeeze out your own Liquid Leading outlines and then you did your first big panel of your own design (the angel). Now you've finished a vertical window technique application. What will you do next. (more--and different--that's what I do.)
How about you, readers????? If you are a Gallery Glass crafter and have not done a vertical window-----what are you waiting for? Let's get started.