I just used that same backing (made for shower doors) only not the dark shade. I used the lighter frosted. I got the idea from my local fish store. When the light is off you can see my aqua clear filter hanging on the back through the background, but when the light is on, the filter is almost invisible. I really like the look of using this backing, plus, it's easily removed

 

I used a gray frosted background on my spec v. Specifically this one.

Here is a picture of the result:

Even though its considered "privacy" screen material you can still make out a shape which is my squeeze bottle of flourish behind the tank on the right. I wouldn't want to go more translucent then this if I could help it.

I like the result quite a bit and it accomplishes what I wanted it to (namely hide all the wires etc I have behind the tank)

 

That is a good look!

 

Yes, I use privacy film from Home Depot Lots of choices, patterns etc, and easy to apply!

 

Has anyone here used a dark frosted background instead of just white? If so, did you like the effect? And would you mind sharing pics?

Trying to decide on what background to use for our upcoming low tech planted 75 gallon that’s going to have PFS for substrate. Originally was debating a white frost window cling vs solid black. Now I’m wondering if something in between could look good, like a grey or translucent black. I’ve attached a stock photo of one of the colors I’m considering.

I used a gray frosted background on my spec v. Specifically this one.

Here is a picture of the result:

Even though its considered "privacy" screen material you can still make out a shape which is my squeeze bottle of flourish behind the tank on the right. I wouldn't want to go more translucent then this if I could help it.

I like the result quite a bit and it accomplishes what I wanted it to (namely hide all the wires etc I have behind the tank)

Ooh, that looks exactly like I was hoping it would! I think that decided me. Thanks!

 

I've applied privacy film to several tanks. The one instance where it looked splotchy was when I forgot to spray both the tank and the film before application. In other words, there wasn't enough solution during application. You really want to soak both surfaces to the point that you can easily slide the film around. That will allow you to really work out all of the bubbles, etc.

 

@minorhero ‘s looks good. But it depends on whats behind tank wether it works or not to have a translucent background. His works because there is no appliances behind tank. Add a box filter or hoses from canister where you can make out shape of those appliances it becomes less effective. Not much different than being able see them through a clear tank back.

 

This is definitely the case, I was trying to block out a socket about 6" away from the back of my tank. My film worked great for that. If I had a hang on back the film would not block it being pressed up against the back. They do however make opaque films which would work for this purpose. In my opinion its better then painting the back because its easier to remove.

 

Do you still have to use tape around the edges after applying?

 

I really like that darker window film @minorhero-- looks great.

I wish I would of used the darker film rather than the frosted. Here was how the frosted looked when i

I applied it to the 180 gallon. I like the look but it is not really great for pictures and you can see the equipment pretty good.