Print · Tape · Trace
From printed template to Christmas window drawing
Print on ordinary paper, join the numbered sheets, then trace from the other side of the glass. The paper is a guide, not a window sticker.
A few simple materials
Ordinary A4 or US Letter paper, a printer, a ruler, removable tape, scissors for trimming paper, a cloth, and a window marker or liquid chalk marker suitable for your glass. Check the marker instructions and test removal in a small corner first.
Choose a reachable window
Measure the clear glass between the frames. Choose a pane you can safely reach on both sides. Leave space around the drawing.
Try the 7.1 in (18 cm) snowflake →Print and check the scale
Choose the PDF matching your paper. Print one numbered sheet at 100% and measure the calibration line: it must be 10 cm. If it is not, correct the print settings before printing the rest.
Join the numbered sheets
Keep page 0 nearby as your map. Arrange the other sheets by row and column: 1.1, 1.2, then 2.1. On each added sheet, trim the left or top white margin to the dashed frame. Overlap the repeated 10 mm of artwork until the lines match. Tape on the back. Do not join paper edges with a gap.
Place the paper behind the glass
Clean and dry the glass. Tape the paper to the opposite side, with the printed face toward you. Draw on your side. Only place a template outside if that side is safely accessible; do not lean out of a window.
Trace slowly, one section at a time
Follow the black lines with your window marker; white gives a snowy effect. Stay directly in front of the part you are tracing, especially with double glazing. Pause as the marker instructions recommend and avoid resting your hand on wet lines.
Remove the paper and enjoy
Remove the template and tape once the drawing is ready. Check the result from both sides. For touch-ups and later removal, follow the marker and glazing instructions. Do not assume every pen is washable on coated or textured glass.
Three details that make assembly easier
Before you start
- These are tracing templates, not fold-and-cut snowflakes or spray-paint stencils.
- Each design is text-free. It can be enjoyed from either side, although an asymmetric scene will appear reversed.