How to Paint on Window Tint

Window tinting can keep your car cooler in the summer months and provide privacy for passengers in your vehicle. Spray-on window tint provides an easy and cost-effective way for a car owner to perform the job at home. Keep in mind that every state has its own restrictions on the amount of tint that can be applied. Your vehicle may already have some sort of tint, so be aware that adding any spray will darken the windows further. Use the spray sparingly to avoid getting a traffic ticket.

Things You'll Need

  • Dishwashing soap
  • Water
  • Spray bottle
  • Straight-edge razor blade
  • Bucket
  • Hot water
  • Spray tint
  • Low-tack painter’s tape
  • Newspaper
  • Mix 1 tsp of dishwashing soap with water. Shake the solution to combine. Spray the window with the solution. Scrape the window with a straight-edge razor to remove all residue.

  • Fill a bucket with hot water. Drop the spray tint can into the water to warm up the contents.

  • Tape some newspaper around the window to prevent overspray. Cover any portions of the car within 24 inches of the window. Cut the tape with a straight-edge razor to make a sharp line around the window.

  • Hold the can 12 inches from the window. Spray in a steady back and forth motion and apply a very thin coat of tint. Allow the tint to dry for 20 minutes.

  • Apply a second and third thin coat of tint, allowing each coat to dry for 20 minutes before applying the next.