Framing an existing mirror is a simple process that only requires a few supplies. It’s a great way to update the look of a room and make your existing mirror look brand new. The first step is to measure your mirror and determine what size frame you need.
Once you know the size of the frame, you can purchase it from a home improvement store or order it online.
To begin, remove any glass clips that may be holding the mirror in place. You may need to use pliers to help you with this. Carefully remove the mirror from the wall and lay it facedown on a rimless surface.
Clean the back of the mirror with glass cleaner and a lint-free cloth to remove any dirt or dust that might be stuck on the back of the mirror.
Next, find the center of the mirror and apply double-sided tape to that exact spot. Place the frame over the tape and secure it in place. You may need to use small nails to get the frame securely attached.
Now position the mirror in the frame and secure it by attaching a few small nails into the frame. To finish the look, you may decide to add a decorative beveled trim around the frame, if desired.
Once that’s completed, your frame is ready to mount to the wall and your mirror will look like new.
Can you put a frame on a frameless mirror?
Yes, you can put a frame on a frameless mirror. Frameless mirrors are generally made from a single piece of glass that is cut to size and is secured to a wall or cabinet with adhesive or screws. Adding a frame to a frameless mirror can give the piece a more finished, polished look.
It can also serve as a way to camouflage any imperfections from the edge of the mirror that may have been created when cutting it to size. Additionally, framing a frameless mirror can add character and style to any room.
Depending on the type and design of frame chosen, it can also give the mirror a completely new look. Before adding a frame to a frameless mirror, it’s important to ensure that the wall behind it is securely attached to the wall and has no visible damage.
It’s also important to consider the types of materials that the frame and mirror may be exposed to whenever selecting a frame, as different materials may be more at risk of damage depending on the environment.
How do I add a frame to a plain mirror?
Adding a frame to a plain mirror can be a fairly easy and inexpensive project. You will need to gather all the materials you need in advance, such as a frame of your liking, mirror adhesive, and a few basic tools.
First, you will need to measure the mirror to determine the size of the frame you need. Ideally, the frame should have a slight overlap with the mirror to create a tight seal and provide stability. Once you have the correct size, you will need to prep the frame by lightly sanding it in order to create a better surface for the adhesive to stick to.
Next, you will want to lay out the supplies, including the mirror adhesive and the frame. Apply a generous amount of adhesive to the back of the frame with a putty knife. Then, press the frame onto the mirror and use clamps to hold it in place while the adhesive dries.
Allow the adhesive to cure for at least 48–72 hours before you move the frame to ensure a strong bond.
Finally, hang the mirror in your desired location and enjoy your new look!
How much does it cost to frame a mirror?
The cost of framing a mirror can vary greatly depending on the size and style of the frame. Generally speaking, basic frames for smaller mirrors can start at around $15 to $20, while more elaborate frames for large mirrors can cost several hundred or even thousands of dollars.
For example, if you go to a custom framer, they will take into consideration the size, type of mirror, quality of the frame, type of glass (if applicable), and labor costs. This will end up driving up the cost of framing a mirror significantly.
How do you make a homemade mirror frame?
Size, and material you want to use. Generally, most homemade mirror frames start off with assembling a frame, using either wood or plastic molding. You’ll need to purchase the frame material, depending on the size and type of frame you want.
Using household tools, use a table saw to cut the frame material. If the frame you are making is intricately designed, use clamps to join two pieces together before nailing them in place. After the frame is built, you can stain it or paint it to the desired color.
Next, you’ll need to cut the mirror for the frame, using a glass cutter and also sandpaper. Place a piece of masking tape on the back of the mirror. When the sticker-backed mirror arrives in the mail, remove the backing, and then apply the mirror to the frame with a high-gloss epoxy, smoothing it out with a putty knife.
Once the epoxy has adhered the mirror to the frame, you can hang the frame. You can add backing boards and picture wire or saw tooth hangers to the back of the frame to hang the mirror.
What type of wood should I use to frame mirror?
For framing a mirror, it is important to consider a few factors before selecting the right type of wood. Depending on the desired look, you should consider the grain pattern and hardness of the wood.
It is best to choose a hardwood such as oak or maple, as they are less susceptible to warping and provide a more uniform finish. Hardwoods are often more expensive than softer woods, but due to their durability, they may be the best choice for a framing project that requires longevity.
Additionally, it is important to consider the finish of the wood. You may want to stain the wood or paint it with a neutral or vivid color. Finishing the wood ahead of time will help ensure the color and texture of the wood, and prevent any color inconsistencies.
For example, oak has a distinct grain pattern and may require a darker stain to bring out its texture and complexity. In the end, selecting the right type of wood for framing a mirror comes down to personal preference and what look you are trying to achieve.
What can I do with unframed mirrors?
You can display unframed mirrors in a variety of ways. Depending on the size and shape of the mirror, you can hang it directly on the wall, prop it against the wall, or sit it on a shelf, desk, or mantel.
You can even hold one up against an existing piece of wall art, giving a multi-dimensional look and feel to your wall. If you’re looking to create an accent wall, try hanging several unframed mirrors in varying shapes and sizes and in different directions.
Also, to create a bohemian vibe, hang several round unframed mirrors in a cluster. Remember to use the appropriate hanging hardware for your wall when hanging mirrors. You can also simply add a few large unframed mirrors to your decor to help bounce light around your room and give it a spacious and open feel.
The possibilities are endless when it comes to decorating with unframed mirrors.
Do frameless mirrors look cheap?
No, frameless mirrors do not necessarily look cheap. When properly installed, a frameless mirror can provide a highly polished, minimalist aesthetic that can look attractive and modern. Frameless mirrors are often a great choice for modern, contemporary spaces, when matched properly with other design elements.
Such mirrors tend to reflect a lot of light, creating a more open and spacious look. Additionally, frameless mirrors can be customized to match the design of the room, featuring a variety of edge treatments including beveled, flat, polished, or pencil polish.
They can come in various shapes, sizes and thicknesses, allowing greater flexibility in any space. Ultimately, the question of whether a frameless mirror looks cheap or not boils down to preference, design decisions, and the skill of the installer.
What is mirror mastic?
Mirror mastic (also known as mirror adhesive or mirror mount) is a type of adhesive specifically formulated for the purpose of securing mirrors in place. It is typically sold in either a roll or a tube, for either interior or exterior use.
Mirror mastic is both water and weather resistant and can be used for either interior or exterior applications. It can also be used to adhere a mirror to any surface such as drywall, ceramic tile, masonry, plaster and concrete.
Mirror mastic stays flexible and won’t crack or separate, providing a secure bond. It is typically clear and will maintain the same consistency over time, allowing the mirror to stay securely adhered to the surface.
What are mirror clips?
Mirror clips are a type of fastener used to hold a mirror in place, usually against a wall. They are typically made from a material such as plastic or metal and come in a variety of styles and sizes to fit different types of mirrors.
On the back of the mirror, holes are drilled or punched in order to fit the clips, which will then hold the mirror in place. Depending on the size and weight of the mirror, different types of clips may be needed, such as heavy-duty mirror clips or spring-loaded clips.
In addition to being used to hold mirrors onto walls, mirror clips can also be used to join two mirrors together or to attach a mirror to a frame. By installing mirror clips correctly, a securely held mirror can be created in any space.
Can you put mirror glass in a picture frame?
Yes, you can put mirror glass in a picture frame. The process involves removing the original glass from the frame, measuring and cutting the mirror to the correct size, affixing a protective backing and reinserting the mirror into the frame.
It is important to use special safety glasses and handle the mirror with great care to avoid shattering or breaking it. If you need a custom-sized mirror, you can purchase one from a glass supplier, who may also be able to do the cutting and installation for you.
The cost of custom framed mirrors will be more expensive than buying a pre-cut one. Additionally, it is important to consider the type of frame you have, as some are not suitable for mirror glass and may be damaged when installing the mirror inside.
