I have used the Alsa sheeting to cover up a really scratched fridge from the Sears outlet for a rental property ($1800 stainless fridge down to $600) and also my outdated oven before I remodeled my current kitchen. It is a really good product in that it is actually stainless steel. However, no matter how careful I was in the application, I still ended up with a few bubbles. Maybe someone else has some application tips.

It did look pretty good but it is somewhat pricey. I think it came to over $100 to order the film. Your friend may be able to order a premade stainless panel for cheaper? There was a website that had all kinds of surfaces for the front of appliances. See below.

I don't know what the prices are but I think it would definitely look more professional than either Alsa or softmetal unless you can do a perfect application.

Here is a link that might be useful: custom stainless panels

I used FX Sheeting on my dishwasher and it was fantastic. It cost $40 for the size piece I needed and it was simple to trim and fit. You do have to be careful and apply the product as instructed, and the surface you're applying it to needs to be free of specks and bumps, just like any other sort of installation of this type of material. It worked beautifully and has held up beautifully.

Here's a pic:
{{!gwi}}

Thanks for your responses.
Eva, how long have you had the material on you dishwasher?

It's been over two years now, with the DW in daily use and an active family and entertaining life.