Crystal vinyl application by Iconography Studios. When the principal and founder of New City Public Schools in Long Beach, CA was looking for a way to both add privacy and beautify her office windows, we had just the solution for her.
Etched vinyl window coverings are the ideal solution for combining privacy and aesthetics in a glass wall, door or window covering. The etched vinyl comes in several textures and densities. Some allow more light to pass through than others. Etched vinyl privacy films, which create a milky, semi-transparent, or sandblasted look, are commonly referred to as frosted window film, etched glass vinyl, dusted crystal, or sandblasted film.
Crystal vinyl, etched vinyl, or frosted vinyl typically lasts for 5–10+ years indoors, with some high-quality films lasting indefinitely if not exposed to harsh conditions, direct sunlight, or significant temperature fluctuations. When applied to clean, smooth, interior glass surfaces, it is considered a long-term solution.
Crystal Vinyl Common Names & Types
Popular commercial brands include ORACAL 8510/8810, 3M Fasara, and Avery Dennison Etchmark. These materials are used for functional privacy in offices, bathrooms, and storefronts, offering a professional, permanent, or temporary alternative to actual sandblasted glass
- Frosted Film: The most common term for a soft, translucent white finish that obscures vision from both sides.
- Dusted/Crystal Film: A lighter, more transparent version of frost that mimics lightly acid-etched glass.
- Sandblasted/Etched Vinyl: Often used interchangeably with frosted, this refers to a heavier, thicker, more opaque, and granular texture.
- Decorative Window Film: A broader category including patterned, frosted, or custom-cut vinyl, such as 3M Fasara.
Industry Brands & Specific Products
- ORACAL 8510/8810: Widely used, with 8510 offering a fine-dusted look and 8810 offering a deeper, frosted glass texture.
- 3M Fasara: High-end decorative/embossed films.
- Avery Dennison: Known for durable, cast etched glass films.
Logos, text, or other patterns can easily be cut into the crystal vinyl, allowing for completely unique and custom patterns to be created. Colored vinyls or custom printed vinyls can be used in conjunction with the etched vinyl to maintain with your company’s branding.
The process for turning your plain glass walls, windows or other glass surfaced into a frosted work of art is really easy:
1. First we would measure the area or item that will receive the etched vinyl application, and make a template so that we can create a proof for your review. Our design team will create a 2-D visual on paper of what you can expect your project to look like. you will have the opportunity to make changes to the design before it is finalized.
2. Once you have approved a final design, we will prepare your materials by cutting the etched vinyl into the specified shapes and sizes, as well as prepare any colored or printed vinyls at this time.
3. Once your materials are ready, our expert installation team will install them on the glass or acrylic surface you have selected.
Why hire a certified installer for Crystal Vinyl?
Crystal and etched vinyl is a specialty product that is relatively easy to install if you have the proper training and experience. Prep the glass with a simple cleaning, using water, dish soap or baby shampoo, and a scrub pad. Use a razor to remove anything adhered to the glass, and wipe edges with a clean, dry towel. Use a soft squeegee for application. Use a new, sharp blade when cutting. The product cuts very easily and cleanly, but it can tear with a dull blade. Expect a “milky” tone initially, which will clear up as the adhesive dries on the glass.
Have a glass window, door or other item you’d like to dress up with a frosted treatment? Give us a call today at 562-424-4353 to speak with an expert!
