DIY How to Etch Windows & Doors With Cream

Remove the glass from the window or door, if possible. If not, protect the area around the window, especially the floor, with plastic sheeting that's taped in place.

Measure the width of your window or door pane, marking the center point on the window pane -- not the glass -- with a pencil.

Clean the glass with glass cleaner and dry it completely with paper towels.

Apply your stencil, using the center mark as a guide. There are a few ways to do this: you can use a purchased, pre-cut adhesive stencil, you can make your own stencil out of adhesive vinyl with designs cut with a craft knife or you can create a design with masking tape. Whichever method you choose, the stencil must be placed exactly where you want the design, with any air bubbles pressed out using a wooden spoon.

Cover all of the areas around the stencil with masking tape. Overlap each strip of tape to ensure that the area is protected from contact with the etching cream.

Fill a bucket with warm water before you apply the cream if the glass is non-removable.

Shake the bottle of etching cream well. Using a paint brush, apply the etching cream quickly to all of the exposed areas of glass. Allow the cream to sit for 1 minute.

Rinse the etching cream with warm water. If the glass has been removed, rinse it in a sink or tub with warm running water. If the glass is non-removable, use a turkey baster to rinse off the cream. Work quickly, and don't let the rinse water touch anything but the bucket and the protective plastic sheeting.

Remove the masking tape and the stencil carefully. Clean the glass immediately with glass cleaner.