How to Frost Glass

Glass can take on a number of decorative finishes. One of the most widely known textured glass is frosted glass. It is normally seen on glass doors and windows. If you have always wanted to have frosted glass in your own home, there is a quick and easy way to create the effect without purchasing expensive specialty glass. With the application of a simple chemical mixture, you can frost any glass surface you already own.

Things You'll Need

• Plastic container
• 2 oz. dextrin
• 6 oz. magnesium sulphate (Epsom salt)
• Toothbrush or paintbrush

Instructions

1. Thoroughly clean your glass surface.

2. Add the water, dextrin and magnesium sulphate -- better known as Epsom salt -- to a plastic container. Stir them until the compound is well-mixed.

3. Apply a thin, even coat with a toothbrush or paintbrush on all parts of the glass you want to frost.

4. Let the solution dry. When it does, the magnesium sulfate will have crystallized into very fine needle-like pieces. While not sharp, they do create the frosted appearance you see on glass.

Tips & Warnings

• Use painter's tape to mark off areas of glass you do not want to frost or to create designs in your frosted glass.

• Dextrin is a starch that can be purchased or made by baking corn starch.

• Be careful when mixing chemicals together. Make sure none splashes on you. If they do, wash the chemical off immediately with running water.

Resources

• Read this Article in Spanish
• Wichita Buggy Whip: Dextrin and Making Dextrin