Gelling Windows
Sometimes windows will need to be gelled in order to control the light outside. This could be gelling the outside a certain color, or it could be putting ND on the windows to bring the intensity down. You can also put light or heavy diffusion on windows in order to create privacy.
Here are the steps to Gel a Window.
- Clean the window
The gel will not stick if you do not have a clean window, you'll end up with small bumps and air pockets if you skip this step.
- Measure the windows
Give about 2" of additional gel on each side of the window. You'll cut them to fit later in the process.
- Cut the Gel
Cut them to your specified dimensions.
- Apply
In the video they use a combination of coke and water, but you can use dish soap and water instead. Both are suitable.The sugars in the soda act as a glue for the gel. Use a spray bottle and spray the window down heavily, then place the gel on top.
- Squeegee
Use a squeegee starting from the center and squeegee everything outwards so there are no air bubbles. The gel will cling to the window.
- Trim
Now trim the gel to size. You may need to spray more in the corners or hold it into the corner with your squeegee as you trim around it. You can peel the gel off and spray more, then squeegee again if needed.
Here is a video that outlines all the steps.