Dress up a mirror with a custom-made frame. Our step-by-step instructions will take you through how to make this DIY mirror frame out of moulding. You can also download the instructions and print them out.
Skill Level: Beginner Time: 4-6 hours, including paint drying time Cost: Less than $50
TOOLS AND MATERIALS
- Trim moulding, cut to length
- Level
- Miter box and hand saw
- Spray paint or interior paint
- Liquid Nails adhesive
- Paintable caulking
- Paint brush
- Painter’s tape
STEP 1
Measure the length and height of your mirror to determine how large a frame you need.
STEP 2
Select the trim you think best matches your bathroom or interior space. Consider combining multiple types of trim such as chair rail and wainscoting to get a layered look.
STEP 3
Measure your mirror and materials again to ensure a proper fit.
Select the wood you would like to use on the outer frame. Then measure the wood that you want to be your outer piece.
Mark the wood measurement on the outer edge of the wood.
You want the corners of the moulding to meet at a 45-degree angle, so keep that in mind when you’re marking it.
STEP 4
Cut a 45-degree angle on the wood using the miter box and saw.
Use the mark you made as the outer part of the cut, then cut inward.
Make the 45-degree cut going the other direction at the other end.
Continue measuring and cutting all four sides.
STEP 5
After cutting all the wood, use a high-grit sandpaper to soften the edges. Then use wood glue to attach the four pieces together.
Don’t worry if they don’t fit perfectly — you can use paintable caulk to achieve a professional and seamless look.
STEP 6
Prime and paint the mirror frame.
If this mirror is going to be hung in the humid environment of a bathroom, we suggest priming and painting both sides of the wood.
Consider using spray paint to achieve a high-gloss finish, or consider interior paints such as Martha Stewart Living paint in a specialty finish like metallic gold as an alternate way to add a luxe, gilded look to your frame.
STEP 7
Arrange the pieces to mount to your mirror frame.
Glue the middle of the back of each strip of moulding.
Install your DIY mirror frame by hanging it onto the mirror.
STEP 8
Fill any small gaps in the corners with caulk.
Once that’s dry, paint it to match.
