DIY Network

Great Wall Groupings Gather stained glass, frames for designer effects. From "B. Original" episode DBOR-312

Make small images powerful with Michele Beschen's tips.

There's more than one way to beautify a wall: Just ask Michele Beschen. In these quick projects, the B. Original host shows how to add color by framing panels of stained glass and even "staining" plain glass on your own. If you actually want to put some art in your frames, she shares a great way to create a dramatic grouping that gives power to even small images.

Scroll down for Michele Beschen's how-to, and get ready to B. Original with your own four walls.

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Add a splash of color with framed stained glass.

Framed Stained Glass

Materials:

stained glass panels
glass cutting wheel
ruler
glazier points
plain glass panels
spray paint
frosted glass spray
assorted wooden frames
assorted brackets
screwdriver

	Figure A
	Figure B
	Figure C

Note: For any of these projects, plan on creating more than one piece to create a grouping for the wall. One of these on its own looks out of place; grouping a few creates a visual statement.

• Purchase 12" x 12" panels of stained glass at hobby shops. Larger pieces are available at stained glass stores.

• Choose a frame that works well with the design on the stained glass. If there's already glass in the frame, remove it and save it for another project.

• Cut the stained glass to fit the frame. Don't be intimidated by cutting glass: It's simple and straightforward:
  • Measure the glass and position a straight edge where you want the cut (figure A).

  • Hold the glass cutter firmly and score the glass (figure B). Don't stop during the stroke, and don't go back over the score a second time.

  • Hold the glass firmly, with your thumbs on either side of the score line. Roll your hands away from each other, applying even pressure. The glass will snap (figure C).

• If you still don't want to cut the glass yourself, most home improvement stores and glass shops will make simple cuts for you.

• The edges of the cut glass don't need to be perfect; they'll be covered by the frame.

• Take a look at both sides of the glass – one side may be more bright or vibrant than the other. Place the glass in the frame with the more attractive side facing out.

• Use glazier points to secure the glass in the frame. If the wood is tough, start a slit for the points with a sharp knife to let the points insert more easily.

	Figure D
	Figure E

"Stain" Your Own Glass

Materials:

plain glass
rubbing alcohol
clean cloth or paper towels
interior/exterior paint
razor blade
frosted glass spray
mirror mounting clips

• Clean the glass well with rubbing alcohol.

• When the alcohol is dry, spray the glass evenly with any interior/exterior paint (figure D).

• Clean up any excess paint with a razor blade or rubbing alcohol.

• When the paint has dried, apply a light coat of frosted glass spray.

• Arrange the panels and hang with mirror mounting clips for instant wall art (figure E).

Frame Groupings

assorted wooden frames with flat, square edges
photos or artwork for frames
brackets
small screws

• For a wall arrangement that makes a statement, gather an assortment of wooden frames with flat, square edges.

• Fill the frames with artwork that goes together – family photos, theme photos or other graphics.

• Arrange the frames side by side in a way that pleases you – mix up sizes and shapes for more visual interest.
  

  Figure F

  Figure G

  
  

  Figure H

• Turn the frames face down, keeping the same arrangement between frames (figure F).

• Use brackets and small screws to connect all of the frames to each other (figure G).

• Hang your themed grouping (figure H).