🖼️
The project:
After finding a collection of reclaimed coloured textured glass on Facebook Marketplace, I was inspired to create my own stained-glass feature window. Using inexpensive 19 × 42 mm pine, I designed and built a removable timber insert that sits in the track of an existing sliding door without any permanent fixings. The interlocking timber grid holds the reclaimed glass in a balanced, organic pattern, creating a colourful feature while still allowing plenty of natural light through. It shows how affordable materials and a second-hand find can be transformed into a unique custom feature for any home.
- Materials:
- Tools:
- Step 1:
Step 1 – Design
Measured the sliding door opening and designed a removable insert that would sit securely in the existing track. Planned the grid around the reclaimed glass panels to make the best use of each piece.
- Step 2:
Step 2 – Cut the timber
Cut the 19 × 42 mm pine to size and marked every intersecting joint.
- Step 3:
Step 3 – Create the interlocking grid
Cut matching notches in each piece so the grid locked together. Dry-fitted everything, then glued the joints and clamped the frame until the glue cured.
- Step 4:
Step 4 – Sand and stain
Sanded the entire frame smooth and applied wood stain to bring out the natural grain.
- Step 5:
Step 5 – Fit the glass
Added the reclaimed textured glass panels and secured them with timber retaining strips, leaving selected openings clear to create a balanced, light-filled design.
- Step 6:
Step 6 – Install
Placed the finished insert into the sliding door track. Because it’s a friction-fit insert rather than a permanent installation, it can be removed at any time without damaging the existing window.
