How to Make a Fake Window for Your Home

Windows let in light, sure, but they also make a room seem more cheery and welcoming. You can add a little cheeriness in a room with no window, or not enough windows, by making a fake one. Fake windows won’t let in light but they will make the room seem a little more inviting.

It’s easy to make your fake window with a real window set from a home improvement store. Don’t go to any great expense to purchase the window; choose one that has a wooden frame and glass panes or solid glass sheets. Choose the size you want according to the amount of space you have.

Cut a poster of a boat-filled bay, or another scene, to fit the window. Make sure the picture is something that will fit with the area – it’s not a good idea to have something unbelievable, like the White House visible through your window. Tape or tack the poster to the wall and position the window over the top of it. Secure window casing to the wall with nails or screws.

An alternative to the poster is fabric, imprinted with a scene, or window covering (normally used for rear truck windows), that allows you to see out but others can’t see in. This type of adhesive paper can be found where car accessories are sold or, sometimes, at a home improvement store. It comes in certain sizes and can be cut to fit the window. You can also use a stained glass window kit to stain the glass instead of having a picture show through it.

Hang a curtain rod and curtains, with tie-backs, to partially cover the window. Or, hang sheers that give a mere glimpse of what’s behind the window. Curtains will cover the top and sides of the window casing. To partially cover the bottom portion of the window consider a stool with a giant fern or a small bookcase. The curtains and other props are necessary because without them the sides, top and bottom of the window will show and everyone will know it’s a fake window.

The possibilities are endless when it comes to the fake windows. Purchase a small, octagonal window for a bathroom and put a sea scene in it. Place a fake window behind the kitchen sink with a view of a giant weeping willow. Or, place a long, narrow window towards the top of a room then use a simple picture of a clear, blue sky. The fake windows are very easy to do and will give character to an otherwise dreary room.