A sure way to make a simple plate-glass “builder’s” mirror look like a custom showroom piece is to frame it with gorgeous molding. Suddenly that plain old mirror will become the focal point of your bathroom.
Framing a vanity mirror is also a great way to hide damaged mirror edges where the silvering behind the glass has worn away.
There are several ways to go about framing a mirror, some are more elaborate than others. The method I’m using here is very straightforward, and it accommodates any mirror placement because the molding goes directly on the mirror (as opposed to around it), allowing you to frame the mirror even if it’s wall to wall across the vanity, or vanity to ceiling.
CONSIDER THIS
• Make sure you have clearance around the mirror for the addition of a frame. Something like a close medicine cabinet or towel rack could interfere with frame placement.
• Unfinished molding will need to be stained or primed and painted on the face and halfway on the underside (a 1⁄4-inch reflection can be seen on the back of the molding) and then allowed to dry before installing.
• When choosing a molding, think about the look you’d like to create. Do you want to match the finish on the vanity? Would you prefer a metallic finish to coordinate with your fixtures? How about a chunky ornate molding to add a dramatic element to your loo? Some stores will give you sample or scrap molding to go home with to help you decide. Have fun with it! Keep in mind that large wood molding gets expensive, heavy,
and challenging to cut. Medium-density fiberboard (MDF) or plastic molding is less costly, lighter, and easier to work with.
• Corner block moldings (sometimes called rosette blocks) are a great option to consider. They add beautiful detail and eliminate having to cut mitered corners.
Mirror Framing Systems
There are mirror framing systems on the market that cut out a lot of the work that comes along with building your own frame. Mirrorscapes is a brand I really like because of how well they’re designed and how easy they are to install. The choice of colors and styles are vast, so you’re sure to find the look you want. Though a framing system may be more expensive than making your own from scratch, the payoff is ease of application and guaranteed fit and finish.
WHAT YOU’LL NEED
Measure your mirror to determine how many lengths of molding you’ll need— always buy a little extra.
Miter box or electric miter saw
Small chisel*
Utility knife*
Molding
Stain or primer and paint
Paintbrush
Blocks of wood or coffee cans
Sandpaper
Tape measure
Pencil
Clear waterproof adhesive for glass
Rags
Four corner blocks**
* If applicable
** Optional
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