Ugly, flat, steel door needs help

A_k28310791
by A_k28310791
Does anyone have any idea as to how to create a faux etched glass look or faux window for a flat, steel exterior door? I want to somehow transform the door, without cutting holes in it, to make it more modern looking. The door is a very plain still door with a peephole. I thought about adding molding or building it out by attaching wood panels. I would love to have any great ideas you might have. Thanks!

  6 answers
  • Johnavallance82 Johnavallance82 on Aug 08, 2017

    Buy a piece of external Perspex the size of Window. Cover it in Sticky Back Plastic (Contact) in Etched Design. Fit a Frame around it and attach to D oor in a way you are happy with

  • DesertRose DesertRose on Aug 08, 2017

    You might try the kits made for making faux stained glass windows. I did one with a coyote howling at the moon with buttes in the back as we have western decor but there are all kinds of ideas like geometric designs or what ever will fit your colors and decor. Most Hobby Lobbys have the kits or try the craft section at your local Walmart. The picture I used was from a color book because the lines are simple and easy to make into the stained glass look. Hope this works for you. This is easy and adjustable to your preferred choices. Have fun!

  • Michele Pappagallo Michele Pappagallo on Aug 08, 2017

    I would use a good quality construction glue to add molding to the door. Make one large "frame" or add 2-3 like a 3-panel door would have. Then, paint the whole door the same color (including the molding) to give it an upscale, paneled door look. Use a magnet to attach a cute wreath to the front of the door to perk it up even more.

  • Dianacirce70 Dianacirce70 on Aug 08, 2017

    When we bought our house the front door was that flat, boring white metal. I painted a welcome window at the top, then painted the rest of the door red. People are usually surprised that the window is fake

    • See 1 previous
    • Dianacirce70 Dianacirce70 on Aug 08, 2017

      From the street it looks pretty real. When people get closer up they are surprised it's a fake window. I just hand drew it, and painted with acrylics. I painted it 11 years ago. It needs some updating. I want to change the color of the door, I just haven't gotten around to it yet.

  • Cynthia H Cynthia H on Aug 08, 2017

    Find a simple picture frame or frames with nice miters. It could be any kind of frame, but, I'm thinking of one that looks like molding. Then use glue that will work for both materials. and paint the door and frames (I love Gorilla clear outdoor glue and E6000). You could paint them the same color to give the door more dimension or contrast the areas.

  • C. D. Scallan C. D. Scallan on Aug 08, 2017

    You can buy contact paper that looks like stained glass or frosted glass . Use this on a large picture frame and attach it to the door as Cynthia suggested.