Stained Glass Window Film

Decorative window film is an adhesive free window cling that is usually applied to the interior of residential windows.   Many people use window films for increasing privacy, adding energy efficiency, and also just to add more style to their decorating..

In doing some looking around on the web,  I’ve discovered a few very cool uses for this window film outside of its standard purpose.  I hope these ideas spark even more creative juices in you and gets you thinking of other great ways to utilize this modern decorating resource.  I’d love to use your pictures or hear your thoughts on ways you’ve thought of!  Feel free to comment below.

Creating a Centerpiece

If you’re struggling to find the perfect centerpiece for your wedding reception, baby shower, bridal shower, etc. take a look at this stellar example vase.  I love the way the decorator used etched glass window film with a crackled pattern to make this vase. A clear glass vase can be purchased  in any number of discount stores…and a single roll of window film would cover you for an entire room full of vases.

Of course, you don’t need a special occasion to try this technique.  Just use different styles based on the season or motif that you are looking to enhance.  The possibilites are really endless.

To install this film, you’d want to measure the circumference of the vase and then cut out the window film almost exactly to the height and width you’d need. I say almost because  I’d personally leave about 1/2 inch longer than the circumference you measure.  This is so that you can simply overlap the film once you apply it and then trim the joining sides with an exacto knife.   Most of the upfront work will involve cutting  out these  measured pattern sheets from the roll of etched glass window film, and then when you get ready to actually apply it, you could take off the static backing, spray down the vase with soapy water and then appy the window film.   Then take a hard edge squeegee and get the big bubbles out to the best of your ability.   Let it dry overnight  and then trim any overlap where the joints meet.

Place Mats for Your Dining Room

Looking for a cool way to add some “wow” factor to your dining room?  This idea is really fun.   You can see in the image that someone simply applied the window film to the underside of glass placemats.

The glass placemats would of course need to be custom cut to your specifications.  You could have them shaped any way that you’d desire according to the style in your house.  My advice would be to make sure the glass cutting center buffs and sands the edges and let them know what you are using these for.  You certainly don’t want sharp edges on these mats for your guests or family to cut themselves on.

Once the glass is cut, you can simply measure and apply the corresponding amount of window film.  A cool pattern from stained glass window film or frosted window film might even be added or switched up from time to time depending on your mood.

The idea itself is a simple one, and even  including the glass, would probably cost 75 to 100 bucks.  The  comments and compliments you’ll receive will go much farther than the money will.

Glass Coffee Table with Stained Glass Window Film

The final idea involves the use of standard glass coffee table.  I thought this was another very creative use of window film as it takes something “ordinary” and really spruces it up.   Adding new life to your living room or den would be so simple using this technique.  And most likely, I’d venture to say that there are millions of plain coffee tables out there just waiting to be pampered.

When installing this particular film, the tricky part would involve flipping the table over.  You’ll want to install the film on the underside of the glass, so you may have to cut out holes around table legs or nuts and bolts or other hardware that holds the table together.    I suppose you could install the film right on top, but I don’t think I would personally do that, as it could get tougher and tougher to clean over.

The best thing about this particular idea, is that it is really easy to change the look of the table whenever you want.   When you get the first film pattern ready to install, make sure you trace it on a piece of cardboard, or even use another piece of window film.  That way you’ll have the master pattern that you can use without having to measure everything precisely again.  Then when it comes time for the change of seasons, holidays, or special occassion, you can whip up an entirely new look in a flash.

I hope these 3 suggestions have sparked some of your own creative thoughts.  Now go out there and have fun with your own decorative window film project!