Tissue paper stained glass windows are a fantastic project that you can tailor to the skills of children of different ages. Placing the tissue paper squares is something even an infant can do, and older children can complete the project independently, from start to finish. So get the family together and have everyone create their own masterpiece. It is also fun to vary the subject of your paper stained glass creations to reflect seasons and holidays.
Materials That You’ll Need
- colored construction paper
- several colors of tissue paper
- clear or opaque contact paper
- safety scissors
The contact paper has adhesive on one side, eliminating the need to use glue and enabling you to place the finished creations on the window without having to use tape or any additional material. Contact paper can be easily obtained at any craft store.
Preparing Materials
Older children can do this project independently, but for infants and toddlers, the following materials should be prepared before the little ones begin.
Construction Paper Shape
Determine what you would like your stained glass object to be. It can be something simple, like a geometric shape, or something more complex, like a sun, flower or butterfly, for example.
Draw your shape onto the construction paper. Remember, the center area is where the faux stained glass will be. So whatever shape your object takes, it must be hollow. See example photos at bottom of article.
Prepare Tissue Paper
Cut up several sheets of different colored tissue paper. They can be cut into small squares, or any shape or combination of shapes that you prefer. Place pieces in a bowl or on a paper plate so they don't wander.
Creating Tissue Paper Stained Glass
- Cut a section of contact paper large enough to place your construction paper shape on.
- Remove the adhesive backing and place contact paper on the on the table, sticky side up.
- Carefully place the construction paper shape on the contact paper then press gently over all areas of the construction paper to ensure that it is firmly in place.
- Fill in the center, clear section of your shape with tissue paper pieces using one color or a combination of many. You’ll achieve the best results if your tissue paper pieces overlap, but are not placed in such a thick layer that light cannot penetrate.
- You may want to cut to the edges of the contact paper to more closely mirror your construction paper shape, but be sure to leave some sticky edges so that your creation will adhere to the window.
- Carefully place your self-adhesive faux stained glass up in a window and apply some pressure over the entire surface to ensure that it adheres.
- Enjoy!
Other Articles for Parents
For more parent and kid-friendly Suite101 articles, see Boy's Room Decorating Ideas and Finding an In-home Sitter or Nanny.
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