100% silicone is actually made to be applied to the exterior of doors and windows exactly because the product withstands the weather. And that’s why so many people making glass garden art are using it. E-6000 is good stuff, but it’s a “glue” and just wasn’t intended for outdoors use.

I have not done the large windows yet, but it’s on my radar! I have done a smaller version using picture frames. I recommend 100% silicone-clear- for exterior (doors & windows). Clear silicone is not “as clear” as E-6000, but it is strong-bonding and seals as well. The most important factor would be the heat your pane is exposed to. If it will hang in a place that gets direct sunlight and the regular high outdoor temperature it will be exposed to. Glass absorbs heat, and retains heat. E-6000 just isn’t made to hold up to high heat levels. There may be other forms of silicone I read about on mosaic fb groups that are clearer than GE silicone. You might try asking a local art glass shop about what to use in your area for something that will be displayed outdoors. You are wise to inspect the window itself and make any repair and make sure it is good and secure, (nothing rotted or loose) before creating your artwork.

You’re very welcome! We want you to have the most success with your project and as such, we aim to be helpful. Thank you so much for visiting our site!

If you are talking about GLASS beads, then yes, you can paint the backside and the color shows through. The only thing to keep in mind is that the paint comes between the glue and the glass, so the glue is actually sticking to the paint. I’ve never had a bead come off, but technically it’s a little less secure. I think there may be less of an issue with the enamel because it dries hard and is made for use on glass. I have painted beads, but I generally try to use the colored ones. As for glue, it kind of depends on your summers. I prefer to use E-6000 on glass because it’s clear. But my area has very mild summers temperature-wise. If your summers get really hot for weeks on end, the E-6000 may not hold up and the beads might come off. In that case, use the silicone. You don’t have to use very much on a little glass bead and it shouldn’t take away from quality. I have used Silicone on beads as well.

Bake the dishes AFTER they are painted. Follow directions on back of bottle. The purpose of baking is to speed the cure process by pulling all the moisture out of the paint. Place it in a cool oven while it heats up and allow it to stay in the oven to cool down gradually after you turn the oven off.

Thank you. I’ve read (and heard) about so many failures from those who love making their own garden art, only to get the wrong advice and have their pretty works fall apart. Before I started making and selling dish flowers and totems, I researched extensively and followed on-line threads where makers exchanged ideas about glue. It needed to be strong bonding and waterproof…but everyone forgot about the heat! So I purposed to be thorough and to provide not just the “what”, but the “why” when I write my articles, so folks might try again and have success!