21 DIY Stained Glass Window Ideas for 2026

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If you’ve ever admired stained glass windows but thought they were too complex or expensive to make, this article is for you. 

DIY stained glass doesn’t have to mean professional tools or years of experience. With the right idea, you can create beautiful glass panels.

Whether you want privacy, decoration, or a statement piece, these ideas show different ways to approach stained glass at home. 

From beginner-friendly techniques to more artistic designs, you’ll find options that fit your skill level, budget, and style while still feeling truly custom.

Pressed Flowers

This idea uses real pressed flowers sealed between two clear glass panels. Light passes through while the flowers stay preserved inside. It creates a soft, natural stained glass look without heavy colors. 

This works well for kitchens, reading nooks, or small accent windows where you want subtle beauty rather than bold patterns.

Geometric Tape

Instead of cutting glass, you create the stained glass look using adhesive lead tape and glass paint. You design clean geometric shapes, tape the lines, then color each section. 

This is beginner-friendly and perfect if you want a modern style. It also works on removable panels, making it renter-safe.

Vintage Frame

You start with an old wooden window frame and insert stained glass panels into each section. The aged wood adds character while the glass brings color and light. 

This works as a wall accent or a functional window replacement. It’s ideal for farmhouse, cottage, or vintage-inspired interiors.

Color Blocks

This design focuses on large, solid pieces of colored glass instead of detailed artwork. Using two or three bold colors keeps the panel clean and modern. 

It’s a great choice for stairwells, entryways, or tall windows where simple shapes make more impact than intricate patterns.

Hanging Panel

This stained glass panel is designed to hang in front of an existing window using chains or hooks. Light passes through without any permanent installation. 

It’s ideal if you rent or want flexibility. You can change the design seasonally or move it between rooms. It works especially well for sunny windows that need a soft color accent.

Scrap Mosaic

This idea uses leftover or broken glass pieces arranged into a mosaic-style panel. Each piece adds texture and depth, creating a more artistic stained glass look. 

It’s budget-friendly and perfect for creative DIYers who enjoy free-form designs. This works best as a decorative window or wall-mounted panel rather than a full window replacement.

Nature Scene

Instead of abstract shapes, this design tells a visual story using stained glass. You create landscapes like mountains, trees, or sunsets using layered colored glass. 

The result feels artistic and calming. This works well in living rooms or stair landings where natural light can highlight the depth and color variations.

Mandala Design

This circular stained glass pattern focuses on symmetry and warm tones. Mandala designs feel balanced and eye-catching without overwhelming a space.

They work well as statement pieces in meditation rooms, boho interiors, or bedrooms. Hanging it where sunlight hits directly enhances the layered colors and intricate pattern.

Bathroom Privacy

This stained glass idea focuses on letting light in while blocking visibility. You combine frosted glass with soft colors to create a private yet bright window. 

It works perfectly for bathrooms or laundry rooms where curtains feel bulky. The design stays simple so the space feels clean, airy, and not visually heavy.

Cabinet Inserts

Instead of plain cabinet doors, you replace the center panels with stained glass. This instantly adds color and charm to kitchens or dining rooms. 

You can keep the design subtle with muted tones or go bold for a vintage feel. It’s a smart way to upgrade cabinets without a full renovation.

Kids Window

This design uses simple shapes like stars, rainbows, or animals to keep things playful. Bright colors make the window feel cheerful without looking messy. 

It works well in kids’ bedrooms or playrooms where light and color matter more than detail. Keeping the shapes large makes the glass safer and easier to assemble.

Black Outline

This style uses strong black leading paired with neutral or muted glass colors. The contrast gives a modern, graphic look that feels clean and intentional. 

It fits well in contemporary homes or offices where traditional stained glass feels too busy. This design works best with simple patterns and lots of natural light.

Arched Panel

This design uses an arched shape instead of a standard rectangle, giving the window a classic architectural feel. 

It works beautifully in entryways or tall walls where straight lines feel boring. The curve instantly adds elegance, especially when paired with soft colors or simple patterns that let the shape stand out.

Seasonal Swap

This idea lets you switch stained glass panels throughout the year. You create multiple designs sized to fit the same window opening. 

Spring florals, fall leaves, or winter tones keep the space feeling fresh. It’s perfect if you enjoy decorating seasonally without changing curtains or blinds.

Sunburst Style

A sunburst design uses lines radiating from a central point to create movement and warmth. Bright yellows, oranges, or reds make the window glow when sunlight hits. 

This style works well in breakfast nooks, stair landings, or anywhere morning light enters, adding energy to the space.

Farmhouse Floral

This stained glass idea features simple floral shapes paired with clear glass sections. The mix keeps the design light while adding charm. 

It fits perfectly in farmhouse kitchens, laundry rooms, or cottages. Using muted flower colors helps the window blend naturally with wood and neutral interiors.

Entry Accent

This stained glass panel is designed as a small statement piece near the front door or hallway window. It adds color and personality without overwhelming the space. 

You can keep the design simple so it complements the entry rather than competing with it. It’s a great way to make first impressions feel warm and intentional.

Abstract Flow

This idea focuses on free-form shapes and blended colors instead of defined patterns. The glass looks almost like watercolor when sunlight passes through. 

It works well in creative spaces, studios, or modern homes where structure feels too rigid. Each panel turns into a one-of-a-kind art piece.

Picture Frame

You turn thrifted or unused picture frames into mini stained glass windows. The smaller scale makes this project approachable and budget-friendly. 

These pieces work well layered on walls or placed in front of windows. It’s perfect if you want stained glass charm without committing to a full window panel.

Line Art

This design uses thin outlines to create simple images like faces, hands, or leaves. Most of the glass stays clear, keeping the window light and modern. 

It works beautifully in minimalist homes where detail needs to feel intentional. The simplicity makes it elegant without feeling plain.

Porch Panel

This stained glass panel is designed for screened porches or covered patios. It adds color while still letting outdoor light flow through. 

Using thicker glass and strong framing helps it handle outdoor conditions. This idea works well if you want privacy or visual interest on a porch without blocking the view completely.