I’m excited to share with you one DIY project that’s really made a difference in our bathroom: creating a custom mirror frame. It’s astonishingly simple, yet has the power to transform your bathroom into a cozy oasis – all without breaking the bank and and if you’re stuck with a builder-grade mirror, this project will help it lose its generic feel and gain some serious style cred.
When we started planning our bathroom renovation, we initially considered splurging on a new mirror, but those prices were steep. I wanted to keep our makeover budget-friendly, so I had no intention of spending upwards of $50 for a new mirror instead, I was determined to find a creative solution that wouldn’t sacrifice style for frugality As I scoured Pinterest for bathroom inspiration, I stumbled upon a DIY mirror frame tutorial on the blog Cherished Bliss.
It caught my eye because it promised a fresh take on a builder-grade mirror – and I just had to give it a try. Want to see how we did it.
DIY Bathroom Mirror Frame Materials
To create the frame, you’ll need a few key components. Start with two small plastic washers, which will prevent the screws from cracking the mirror. You’ll also require two small screws. Next, gather some wood, trim, or another framing material that matches the perimeter of the mirror. For added color and protection, consider using water-based stain in a finish like American Walnut. A small amount of white paint – just about 1 cup should suffice – will help seal any gaps or imperfections.
To bond everything together, apply FUZE IT Liquid Nails (or another construction adhesive that adheres to glass/mirror). Finally, for added protection and a smooth finish, consider applying a matte polyurethane or wax coating.
Step 1: Replace the mirror clips.
The initial setup of the mirror features small plastic clips securing it to its frame, but these can prove somewhat obstructive, especially when attempting to position the new frame alongside the glass surface. To circumvent this issue, you’ll need to swap out the standard clips for washers that provide a more seamless fit. Meanwhile, the tray-like structure along the bottom of the mirror poses no concerns, as it will simply accommodate the frame’s slight incline without any issues.
To initiate the replacement process, start by carefully unscrewing each clip individually and then substitute them with plastic washers to ensure the mirror remains securely in place.
Step 2: Saw the boards to the correct length.
In pursuit of the perfect material for our mirror’s frame, we sought out thin and affordable wood options. Thinness was crucial to ensure the weight didn’t become overwhelming during the gluing process. Affordability was a no-brainer, given the project’s modest budget. At Lowe’s, we stumbled upon redwood ‘fencing’ boards that fit our bill – each 8-foot length costing just $250. For a comparable option at Home Depot, we found redwood pieces priced at $348 for every six feet.
To ensure the frame wouldn’t encroach on the mirror’s surface, we added an inch to each piece’s perimeter measurement, resulting in a 1/2-inch overhang around the glass. It’s essential to maintain this buffer zone to keep the mirror’s edges fully concealed within the frame. Before applying adhesive, we took care to precisely align the cut ends of each board at a 45-degree angle, allowing them to seamlessly interlock and form a cohesive frame.
Step 3: Finish the boards.
In a nod to our master bathroom renovation, where we transformed the accent wall with a unique blend of stain and white-wash, we opted for a similar approach when it came to treating the wood. After applying the stain, we mixed 2/3 water with 1/3 paint, carefully adjusting the ratio until we achieved the desired hue. Once the mixture dried, we gave the surface a light sanding to smooth out any imperfeits.
To ensure the wood remains protected from toothpaste splashes and other potential hazards, we recommend applying a wax or matte polyurethane finish once the boards are assembled. Notably, we chose not to apply a protective layer to our mirror frame, yet two years later it still retains its original charm.
Step 4: Glue the boards to the mirror.
To complete the transformation, apply a strong adhesive to the wooden boards and attach them to the mirror, ensuring a secure bond by selecting an adhesive compatible with glass or mirror materials. We opted for FUZE IT Liquid Nails, which proved easy to use, albeit requiring some elbow grease to dispense from the tube. Once the glue is applied, carefully position the boards on the mirror, taking care to achieve a level fit.
It may be necessary to hold the board in place for several minutes until the adhesive starts to dry and secure it. Repeat this process for each section of the frame, gently nudging them into position until all edges align properly. With the frame securely attached, our builder-grade mirror has been transformed into a stunning upgraded version. The cost-effectiveness of this DIY project is impressive, with a total expenditure of approximately $32.
However, having many of the necessary materials on hand, as we did, can significantly reduce the overall cost. With leftover supplies, you could potentially create additional frames for multiple mirrors. This easy and budget-friendly DIY bathroom mirror frame upgrade is an excellent way to enhance your home’s aesthetic. The project requires only an afternoon’s effort, yielding a significant impact on the ambiance of your bathroom.
Pin the DIY Bathroom Mirror Frame Tutorial!
To complete the transformation, apply a strong adhesive to the wooden boards and attach them to the mirror, ensuring a secure bond by selecting an adhesive compatible with glass or mirror materials. We opted for FUZE IT Liquid Nails, which proved easy to use, albeit requiring some elbow grease to dispense from the tube. Once the glue is applied, carefully position the boards on the mirror, taking care to achieve a level fit.
It may be necessary to hold the board in place for several minutes until the adhesive starts to dry and secure it. Repeat this process for each section of the frame, gently nudging them into position until all edges align properly. With the frame securely attached, our builder-grade mirror has been transformed into a stunning upgraded version. The cost-effectiveness of this DIY project is impressive, with a total expenditure of approximately $32.
However, having many of the necessary materials on hand, as we did, can significantly reduce the overall cost. With leftover supplies, you could potentially create additional frames for multiple mirrors. This easy and budget-friendly DIY bathroom mirror frame upgrade is an excellent way to enhance your home’s aesthetic. The project requires only an afternoon’s effort, yielding a significant impact on the ambiance of your bathroom.
