How to Apply Etched Glass Vinyl

Clean the glass before applying the vinyl. Use isopropyl alcohol followed by high-quality window cleaner and shop towels. Make sure the glass is free from lint and streaks.

Fill a spray bottle with distilled water and several drops of baby shampoo. The baby shampoo solution will create the “slip,” or film, you need to position the etched glass vinyl. The film solution helps soften the vinyl, making it easier to work with during the application.

Measure the area you are covering and cut the vinyl approximately one-quarter inch larger all around than the area to be covered.

Place the etched glass vinyl on a clean, flat surface. Use a straight-edge razor to gently lift a corner of the vinyl from its paper backing. Start misting the front and back of the vinyl with the solution in your spray bottle as you remove the vinyl from the backing. Use the solution generously for best results.

Mist the glass surface to which you are applying the etched glass vinyl with a liberal amount of solution from your spray bottle. Position the misted vinyl in place on the glass. Gently start at the center and work your way out in all directions, using a squeegee to remove excess solution, and blotting as you go with shop towels. Keep working the squeegee until all air bubbles and excess solution are removed from between the glass and the etched glass vinyl.

Trim the edges of the vinyl with a straight-edge razor, getting as close as possible to the edge of the glass. You can hold a metal ruler against the vinyl to help keep the cut straight. Do not allow any etched glass vinyl to overlap onto window framing.

Carefully examine your work with as much light as possible from both sides. Look for air bubbles and any debris (such as a piece of hair) that might have gotten stuck between the glass and the etched glass vinyl. If you notice any debris, lift the vinyl after spraying with film solution and remove the debris by gently scraping with a straight-edge razor. Re-mist both surfaces and repeat the squeegee process until all excess solution has been removed.