How to Make Window Cling Frosting
Frosted windows offer privacy as well as diffuse light and reduce the amount of glare coming in from the sun. They also provide an interesting alternative to shades, blinds or other window treatments. Typically frosted windows are sandblasted, a method which is best done by a professional. Designs can be worked onto the glass surface, with varying degrees of shading, therefore offering the most detail.
Etching cream, available at craft and hardware stores, also produces a white, filmy surface. The cream is applied over a stencil or cut-work design to produce a cloudy surface and blurred transparency on the glass. There are also sprays and contact paper adhesives, available in hardware stores, that will do the trick with a non-permanent result.
Some signage companies use a vinyl film that adheres to the window and will produce a similar effect. If your desire is for a non-permanent result, or if you are looking for a decorative application, there are a few options.
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Things You'll Need
- Epsom salts
- 1 cup beer
- Washcloth
- Stencils (optional)
- White matte acrylic paint
- Paintbrush
- Self-adhesive vinyl (available by sheet or roll)
- Pattern or image templates
- Utility knife
- Double-stick tape
Instructions
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Clean window or door with a semi-abrasive cleanser. Mix 4 heaping tablespoons of Epsom salt with 1 cup of beer. Let sit for 35 minutes; mixture will foam. Use a terry cloth washcloth to dab mixture over stencils, if used, or on surface in an all-over pattern. Mixture will form a crystal-like appearance. Let sit undisturbed for 24 hours. To remove, wash with warm water.
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For this method, mix 1 cup acrylic matte paint with one-fourth cup of water. Apply stencils, if desired. Use paint brush to apply mixture in a sweeping motion. Let air-dry for 24 hours.
To remove, clean surface with a mild abrasive. -
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3
Use double-stick tape to adhere image or pattern templates to vinyl. Cut around images with a utility knife. Clean up edges. Apply to surface. Using an upward motion, press flat ruler against vinyl at an angle to remove any air bubbles.
To remove, lift one edge and peel off.
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Tips & Warnings
If a heavier frosting is desired, wait for the acrylic paint to dry before repeating process. Do this before lifting off the stencils.
