How to Create Frosted Glass Easily and Inexpensively

You can create frosted glass without breaking the bank.

Great for creating privacy windows for areas such as bathrooms, frosting glass is an elegant way to provide style and privacy. You can frost just about any glass surface in a few easy steps using frosted glass spray, while adding patterns by masking the glass with stickers or other patterns while spraying.

Things You'll Need

• Glass frosting spray such as Krylon or Rustoleum
• Outdoor or well-ventilated dust-free area
• Masking tape
• Old newspapers (clean)
• Decorative stickers of your choice
• X-Acto knife
• Safety glasses
• Appropriate vapor mask for the spray type
• Lint-free gloves or cloth

Instructions

1. Clean the glass thoroughly with an ammonia-based glass cleaner. The glass must be free of any dust, fingerprints, dirt, lint or any other contaminant. Once the glass is clean, use a lint-free cloth or glove to handle it.

2. Mask off the areas you wish to remain unfrosted with masking tape or stickers of your choice. Craft stores have a huge selection of masking materials from which to choose. You can also hand-cut patterns in the tape with an X-Acto knife. The variety of patterns is limited only by your own imagination. Make sure all tape and stickers are pressed down firmly.

3. Protect your work area from overspray by using newspapers. If possible, work outdoors to minimize inhaling the vapors from the spray. Avoid spraying on windy days. Avoid areas in direct sunlight. Check the spray's safety sheet for information on protective gear, such as a mask and gloves.

4. Recheck the glass for any dust, fingerprints, lint or other contaminants before spraying. Read any of the manufacturer's instructions for the spray you are using.

5. Apply the spray. Generally, several light coats are better than heavy ones and minimize the possibility of drips and puddles. Keep the can about 8 to 12 inches from the surface. Start spraying a few inches away from your work and move across in a steady motion. With most spray paints, less is better. You can always apply another coat, but it is almost impossible to remove mistakes. Shake the can well and often while applying. As with most craft projects, take your time.

6. Let the work dry overnight. After the work is completely dry, carefully remove the masking tape and stickers to reveal your masterpiece. You can clean up any excess overspray or tape remnants with an X-Acto knife.

Tips & Warnings

• Always wear safety glasses.

• Use the appropriate respirator per the manufacturer's specs.

• Spray in a well-ventilated area.

References

• HGTV: How to Frost Glass Windows