Window Painting 101 - Decoration Idea for Fall!
Posted by ROLF WILLIAMS
Putting up Fall and Halloween decorations can be time-consuming and generally a pain, and finding the right spot for those bulky boxes each year? That’s another headache. Traditional décor can take up precious storage space, but there’s a simple, creative way to decorate that doesn’t require lugging anything out of storage—window painting!
For some pro tips, we asked local painter Allison Carpenter for her suggestions on how to get started! Here’s what she had to recommend:
“First I use chalk to sketch out my design on the outside of the window. Then apply a base coat of flat white house paint, using a cheap foam brush or a 3" disposable roller. When that's dry, I start painting, using acrylic latex house paint - mostly with a disposable roller (I put them in Ziplocs to keep them fresh.) Most importantly, outline the pictures and/or text with good quality black house paint (I use Miller Paint.) The rest of the colors can be any old house paint. 😊 Scott Campbell in Portland has the best tutorials [on YouTube], in my opinion!”
If you’re looking for your window painting project to be a bit more temporary than Allison’s professional method, tempera paint is a good alternative that washes right off. Using tempera paint, you can create vibrant, seasonal designs right on your windows that are easy to change up. Whether you're just decorating for Autumn, Halloween, or both, here are a few bonus tips on how to get started:
What You’ll Need:
- Chalk for sketching out design
- Tempera paint (it’s washable, non-toxic, and ideal for window designs)
- For longer lasting art, see Allison’s advice above regarding house paint!
- Paintbrushes in various sizes
- Foam brush and/ or roller depending on design
- Paper towels or rags for cleanup
- Painter’s tape for outlining
- Water cups for rinsing brushes
How to Get Started:
- Clean Your Canvas – Make sure the window is clean and dry.
- Create an Outline – Lightly outline your design with a white paint pen or chalk, and tape off areas for clean lines.
- Layer Your Colors – Tempera paint can be translucent. Start with a solid base and layer colors for depth and vibrancy. Mix in a little dish soap with the paint for easier cleanup. If you’re looking for a longer lasting design, Allison recommends a base coat of flat white house paint to start off with.
- Incorporate Fall Elements – Think pumpkins, falling leaves, Halloween silhouettes, or show off your penmanship with some Autumn phrases or fitting quotes.
- Use Nature for Inspiration – Look outside for real-life color combinations to make your designs pop. Deep oranges, reds, yellows, and purples scream Fall!
And just remember what Bob Ross said if you get paint someplace you didn’t intend for it to be: “There are no mistakes, only happy accidents.”
Ready to get started? We gathered everything you need to paint your windows and you can check out the collection of items by clicking HERE!
