Window Painting 101
with Laura Thompson

Paint, Process, and Pro Tips for Creating Eye-Catching Window Murals

Window murals are one of the most joyful forms of public art. They stop people in their tracks, turn storefronts into storytelling spaces, and create instant connection between a business and its community. But painting on glass comes with its own set of questions: What paint do you use? How do you remove it? And what brushes actually work?

We sat down with muralist and window artist Laura Thompson (@ltmurals) to talk all things window painting, from materials and maintenance to why this medium has become such a powerful (and profitable) part of her creative work.

What Kind of Paint Do You Use for Window Murals?

According to Laura, window painting is all about layering and choosing the right base.

She typically starts with:

• Latex interior or exterior paint (depending on exposure to weather).
• If the window is protected from the elements, interior latex works just fine. 
• If rain or moisture is involved, exterior latex is the better choice.

On top of that base, she adds detail and dimension using bottle acrylics, layered over the white base coat.

“I mix the white with some colors to make them cover better and give the shading look,” Laura explained. This technique helps the artwork pop from the street while still allowing for softer transitions and highlights.

How Do You Remove Window Paint?

One of the best parts of window murals is that they’re temporary, making them perfect for promotions, holidays, and seasonal designs.

Laura’s clients use window art in different ways:

• Some repaint every few months.
• Some rotate monthly.
• Others only for special promotions or holidays like Christmas.

And that flexibility is part of what makes window murals such a strong business model.

“It’s repeat business,” Laura says. “You’re basically signing the window, so you are getting to paint and advertise at the same time.”

Over time, those window projects often lead to wall murals, referrals from neighboring businesses, and long-term client relationships.

Laura’s Favorite Zibra Brushes for Windows

When painting on glass, control and coverage matter. Laura relies on a few Zibra shapes that help her move quickly without sacrificing clean lines.

Her go-to brushes include:

Round Brushes
Great for flowing lines and curves. The paint load allows her to pull long strokes without stopping constantly to reload.

Square Brush
Perfect for filling larger shapes and blocking in color efficiently.

Pointed Round Brush
Laura’s favorite for detail work and finishing touches: “I really love the pointed round for beefing up at the end to give the sticker look. If you know you know,” she laughed.

Because Zibra brushes hold so much paint, she can:
• Draw long lines on glass
• Fill areas faster
• Reduce streaking

She also loves how soft the bristles are: “When you paint on the windows, you almost have no brush lines from the bristles.”

How Laura Maintains Her Brushes

Window paint sessions can be long, and brush care matters. Laura has a system that keeps her tools going for years.

“I either wrap them in plastic and reuse them or throw them in water (sometimes for a week or two) so they don’t get crusty.”

And when a brush does start to wear down?

“If they do get crusty, I move them to my brick and stucco mural jobs.”

That’s called getting the most out of your brushes!

Why Window Painting Is Such a Powerful Medium

For Laura, window painting is about decoration as much as it’s about connection.

It helps businesses:
• Attract foot traffic
• Promote sales and events
• Feel more human and creative

And for artists, it creates visibility in the real world.

“You’re building relationships,” Laura explained. “Those lead to other jobs like wall murals and other window clients who notice your work.”

In a world of digital ads and endless scrolling, window murals offer real color and real joy on the street.

Follow Laura Thompson

Laura Thompson is a muralist and window artist known for her bold designs and community-driven work.

Follow her work:
Instagram: @ltmurals

TikTok: @ltmurals

Don’t Forget to Clean Your Brushes!

When your project is complete and you’re ready to thoroughly clean your brushes, use soap, water, and the Zibra Paintbrush Cleaning Tool to remove any paint residue. Proper maintenance ensures your brushes remain in top condition for future projects.

And don’t forget to share your furniture projects with us on social media, using @zibrapainting and inspire others on their painting journey! Want more tips and tricks? Sign up for our mailing list. Happy painting!