Window film with the look of stained glass
Brewster Home Fashions Handcrafted Window Film Credit: Handout photo
High costs have priced many homeowners out of embellishing their windows, doors, china cabinets and light fixtures with stained glass. But now, for those who would opt simply for the look of stained glass and forgo the prestige and price of the real thing, technology - and designers - have come to the rescue with faux stained-glass window film.
Made of paper-thin vinyl, stained-glass appliqués diffuse harsh sunlight and obscure unwanted views. They are available in a wide variety of designs, from knock-offs of the classic Tiffany look to more contemporary styles. Films come in clear or frosted (for privacy) effects and with or without color.
And most could not be easier to apply; they cling and hold firmly to the glass backing (or any smooth, nonporous surface) by means of electrostatic attraction without adhesive. An added advantage is that they can be repositioned or removed and reused at any time without damage to either film or glass. The film is said to filter 95 percent of UV rays, which cause fading of carpets and upholstery. It also is supposed to save energy by blocking heat loss.
One exception, Brewster Home Fashions Handcrafted Stained Glass Appliques have an adhesive backing and cannot be removed without damage to the film. However, they have several features that help replicate the look and feel of authentic stained glass. One is their textured surfaces of irregularities that capture the light like the real thing. Another feature is flexibility: They come in sections that can be positioned to fit the size and shape of the glass. Black border strips (sold separately) emulate lead caming and make it possible to customize the entire application. Brewster's product has a life span of many years while retaining color clarity, the manufacturer says.
Brewster Home Fashions Handcrafted Window Film is available at Jo Ann Fabric & Craft stores and Lowes Home Improvement centers. Prices range from about $7 to $20. Call 800-366-1700 for more information.
Here are three more sources for stained-glass window films. These can be applied, repositioned, removed and reused without adhesive. Application instructions are simple: Clean the glass, wet the glass surface and peel the film from its backing. Position the film on the wet glass and use a squeegee or your hand to smooth into place. The film can even be used on shower doors; it is not affected by steam or humidity.
WALLPAPER FOR WINDOWS
800-320-8439
Brewster Home Fashions Handcrafted Window Film Credit: Handout photo
A wide range of designs, from $14.95 to $75. "Our most popular stained-glass film is called 'Biscayne,' and it was inspired by a panel displayed in the Morse Museum in Orlando, Fla., the largest Tiffany museum in the world," says company president Larry Cashion.
GLASS DECOR AND MORE
217-382-3439
Many original and contemporary designs, starting at about $10.
DECORATIVE FILM LLC
888-657-5224
Manufacturer and distributor of Solyx, a leading brand in the decorative film industry. Many designs and sizes available, starting at $1.50 a square foot.
