How to Apply Decorative Window Film
Key Takeaways
- Here’s how to install window film:
- Select a window that receives direct sunlight.
- Clean and wet the window with water.
- Peel back part of the film’s backing and place it on the wet window.
- Use a squeegee to seal the film to the window and remove excess water.
- Dry the window with a paper towel.
Looking for a unique way to add incredible color to a room? Our suncatcher diffraction film is the perfect solution!
When placed in a room that gets direct sunlight, the interplay between the light and the holographic diffraction grating patterns cast a dazzling array of rainbows across your space. The shapes and colors change with the movement of the sun throughout the day.
Understanding how to apply window film properly is the key to maximizing the rainbow magic, though. Below, we’ve outlined an easy process for how to apply decorative window film to your room of choice. Read on, and let us know if you have any questions!
What You’ll Need
First, you’ll need a couple of simple household items:
- Paper towels
- A spray bottle or wet paper towel containing water.
- A squeegee
- A pair of scissors or X-Acto (optional)
- Your Rainbow Symphony decorative window film
How to Install Window Film

Step 1:
Choose a window that receives direct sunlight.
The effect of the film will not be as spectacular if the window is shielded from the sun. If you’re wondering how to apply window film to a smaller window, simply use a pair of standard household scissors or an X-Acto to cut the film to fit!
Step 2:
Clean your window. Once the window is clean, wet the window with water. You can use a liberal amount of water! That will help the sheet float on the window while you find the perfect placement.
Step 3:
Partially peel the backing off of your decorative window film and place it on the desired section of the window, preferably where you already wet the window. Proper positioning is an important part of how to apply window film, so choose the location where you get the most direct sunlight!
Feel free to move the film around at this point. The material should be floating on top of the water, allowing you to move and position exactly where you’d like it on your window.
Step 4:
Once you have the first section of the film where you want it, use your squeegee to seal the film to the window pane. Work from top to bottom, or side to side, applying medium pressure to remove the water and air bubbles.
Step 5:
After you’ve applied the entire piece of film, squeegee the entire surface again in all directions to remove any remaining water or air bubbles and enhance the seal. Push the water and air bubbles towards the closest edge. The shorter the distance they need to travel, the better!
Step 6:
Wipe away any excess water, and you’re done! Now you can step back and enjoy the dazzling rainbow display!
Note: The sun moves throughout the day! The time you placed it on the window may not be optimal rainbow time. The saturation will brighten and soften at different points in the day! For best results, follow this guide to get the best rainbows.
Watch this video of a decorative window film installation:
Explore Our Decorative Film Collection

Now that you know how to install window film like a pro, it’s time to make your selection (if you haven’t already)! At Rainbow Symphony, each of our decorative rainbow window films offers a different pattern that will splash gorgeous colors and shapes across your room.
Choose from Radial Axicon, Ambrosia, Spectra Star, Confetti, and Cracked Ice patterns.
If you have any questions about how to apply window film, get in touch at support@rainbowsymphony.com for personalized guidance.