Quick DIY: How to Get a Frosted Glass Look Without Etching

Quick DIY: How to Get a Frosted Glass Look Without Etching

Looking to add a custom frosted design to your windows, mirrors, or glass panels? Polyvine Glass Frosting is a fast-drying, water-based coating that gives a beautiful etched-glass effect—without harsh chemicals or expensive equipment. Follow along with this simple method using a stencil and stencil brush (as shown in our quick how-to video), and you’ll be adding a personalized touch to your glass in no time.

What You’ll Need:

  • Polyvine Glass Frosting (available here at VarnishDirect.com)

  • Clean glass surface

  • Repositionable stencil adhesive spray

  • Your favorite stencil

  • Stencil brush or small foam roller

  • Butcher paper or painter’s tape

  • Paper towels

  • Glass cleaner like Windex

Step-by-Step Instructions:

  1. Prep the Glass
    Clean your surface thoroughly with Windex to remove fingerprints, oils, and dust.

  2. Secure the Stencil
    Lightly spray the back of your stencil with repositionable adhesive. Stick it in place and tape off any surrounding glass you want to protect.

  3. Load Your Brush
    Pour a small amount of Polyvine Glass Frosting into the cap. Dip in your stencil brush and blot most of it off onto a paper towel—too much product can cause bleeding.

  4. Apply the Frosting
    Use a circular motion to work the product into the stencil’s open areas. Go in one direction, then the other, to ensure full coverage. The coating dries fast, so work in small sections.

  5. Lift the Stencil Before It Dries
    Carefully remove your stencil while the frosting is still damp. Let each completed section dry for about an hour before continuing with the next.

  6. Repeat in Sections
    Reapply adhesive and reposition the stencil as needed. Use parchment or butcher paper to protect completed areas.

  7. Clean Up Mistakes
    If needed, you can remove smudges or unwanted marks using Windex and a cotton swab while the product is still wet. Then realign your stencil and reapply.

Optional Application with a Roller

For larger projects or a smoother frosted finish, Polyvine Glass Frosting can also be applied with a small foam roller instead of a brush. Just mask carefully and roll lightly for even coverage.


Whether you're updating cabinet glass or adding privacy to a front door, Polyvine Glass Frosting offers a quick and easy way to get professional-looking results. Shop it now on VarnishDirect.com, and be sure to tag us in your projects—we love seeing your creativity at work!