Decorating your home with beautiful mirrors can instantly enhance the look and feel of any room. While you can certainly buy pre-made mirror frames, crafting your own custom frame allows you to add a personal touch and match your home’s unique style. Building a do-it-yourself mirror frame may sound daunting, but with the right materials and techniques, the process can be surprisingly straightforward.
In this comprehensive guide, we will walk through all the steps and considerations for constructing your own stunning DIY mirror frame. Follow along to learn the fundamentals of measuring and cutting frame pieces, joining wood with nails or glue, adding decorative molding, finishing with paint or stain, and installing the mirror. With a little bit of patience and our tips for customizing your frame’s size, shape, material, and style, you will soon have an elegant focal point for any room.
Selecting Frame Materials
The material you choose for your DIY mirror frame impacts the overall look, price, and construction methods. Here are some of the most popular options to consider:
Wood
Wood is the classic choice for mirror frames. Options like pine, poplar, oak, and cedar are inexpensive, easy to work with, and take stain or paint beautifully. Heavier woods like oak and cedar provide stability over time. Lightweight pine and poplar are good for large frames.
Pros: Tradition look, inexpensive, versatile for styles, easy DIY material
Cons: susceptible to humidity and rot over time
Plywood
For a budget DIY frame, plywood provides an affordable alternative to solid wood. Opt for exterior grade plywood to prevent warping. Cut decorative patterns into the edges for visual interest.
Pros: Very affordable material, stability with multiple layers
Cons: Edges show layered construction, can warp if exposed to moisture
MDF
Medium density fiberboard (MDF) has a smooth finish and holds intricate molded details well. It’s a great option for ornate, decorative frames. Be sure to prime and paint MDF to prevent swelling and warping.
Pros: Smooth surface ideal for decorative details, good stability
Cons: Heavy, must be primed and painted for protection
Metal
For clean lines and a contemporary vibe, metal frames like aluminum and steel add dramatic flair. Cut the pieces yourself or purchase ready-made metal framing.
Pros: Modern minimalist look, custom cut pieces available
Cons: Difficult to cut and join yourself, can be expensive, prone to dents
Molding/Trim Pieces
Pre-made wood trim, crown molding, and baseboard provide instant decorative appeal. Glue them together for a frame shape, or attach them to a wood frame base.
Pros: Inexpensive, easy embellishment, readily available
Cons: Limited sizes and options for full frames, joints more likely to separate over time
Once you select your primary frame building material, consider pairing it with trim, appliques, beads, or other decorative embellishments. Contrasting wood stains and paint colors can also add visual interest.
Measuring and Cutting Frame Pieces
With your materials purchased, it’s time to start construction by precisely measuring and cutting the individual frame components. Having uniform, straight pieces ensures your frame will fit together cleanly.
Determine Frame Dimensions
First, remove your mirror from any existing frame and use a tape measure to determine the exact width and height. Add at least 2 inches to each dimension to account for the width of the frame pieces. A larger increase provides more decorative space.
Common added frame sizes include:
- 2 inch width for a minimalist floating frame
- 4-6 inches for a classic medium-sized frame
- 8-12 inches for an ornate, substantial frame
Having this frame size in mind will help calculate how much material to purchase. Make a sketch of your desired frame shape and overall dimensions to reference throughout the process.
Cut Frame Sides
Using a miter saw, chop saw, or handsaw, cut the pieces for the frame sides according to your dimensions. Be sure cuts are straight and smooth. For basic rectangular frames, simply cut two pieces matching the frame width and two matching the height.
To create more elaborate shapes, make angled cuts, curves, or notches as desired. Apply wood glue and clamps to hold pieces that join at angles. Allow adequate drying time before handling further.
Sand any rough edges. Wipe away sawdust and debris between cuts to maintain accuracy. Measure twice and cut once for best results.
Cut and Attach Centre Braces
For stability and reinforcement, most DIY mirror frames benefit from horizontal and vertical centre braces attached to the inside.
Cut two wood strips the same length as the interior horizontal width and interior vertical height of your frame. Drill pilot holes and attach using wood screws driven into the centre of each frame side piece. This prevents sagging, warping, and separation over time.
Assemble Frame Pieces
Once your frame sides are cut to size, determine the best method to tightly join the mitered corners based on your chosen material and tools. Here are some options:
Glue and Nails
Apply a liberal amount of wood glue to the adjoining inner edges. Use bar clamps, rubber bands, or spring clamps pulled tight to hold in place. Once the glue starts to dry after 5-10 minutes, drive finishing nails through the corners for added strength. Let the glue fully cure for at least 24 hours before handling.
Best for: Most inexpensive DIY wood frames
Glue and Pocket Screws
Drill angled pocket holes in the inner faces of the mitered corners. Spread wood glue on the edges, push the joints tightly together, and drive pocket screws to draw the pieces together. Let dry fully before moving.
Best for: Quick DIY frames using plywood or MDF
Mitered Frame Joints
Cut matching angled notches on the back inner edges of frame corners. Glue the interlocking notches and clamp tightly. The seam will be hidden on the back for a clean finish.
Best for: Visually appealing frames in wood
Corner Braces
Thick corner braces screw into the frame sides and hold the joints securely together. Pick decorative corner braces for an accent.
Best for: Quick metal or trim frames
Welding/Soldering
For metal frames, weld or solder the cut pieces together along the inner seams for incredibly durable results. Leave a small gap for inserting mirror.
No matter which assembly method you choose, apply clamps and leave the frame undisturbed overnight. The glue will fully cure to create rigid, permanent joints.
Add Decorative Frame Embellishments
Beyond the basic frame structure, you can incorporate a wide variety of decorative elements to match your style. Here are some options to embellish and beautify your DIY mirror frame:
Molding Trim
Frame the inner or outer edges with strips of complementary molding and trim for instant sophistication. Look for patterned details like fluting and textured surfaces.
Intricate Wood Cutouts
Make tailored cuts into wood frames using a scroll saw to create curving designs, latticework, and patterns.
Paint or Stain
Transform plain wood frames with stains and paint techniques like rag rolling, sponging, wood graining, and distressing.
Inset Panels
Cut plywood, MDF, or foam to fit within frame openings. Cover with fabric, wallpaper, tile, or beads for unique texture and depth.
Decorative Hardware
Mount supporting legs, scrollwork brackets, finials, and medallions with screws or strong adhesives. Position them symmetrically for balance.
Mixed Media Accents
Incorporate metals, crushed glass, shells, leather, and other materials for eclectic, multidimensional details. Resin and decoupage accents also work well.
Let your imagination and available tools guide you in embellishing your mirror frame. Fancier details are best done before finishing and mirror installation.
Apply Protective Finish
A protective finish brings out the beauty of natural wood frames while safeguarding from scratches and damage. Choose oil or water-based polyurethane, paint, lacquer spray, or wood stain depending on the look you want:
Polyurethane
Water-based or oil-based polyurethane adds a smooth, durable, transparent coating. Use multiple thin layers for the best protection, letting each coat dry fully. Lightly sand between coats.
Best for: Protecting wood grain visibility
Paint
Coat frames with gloss, semi-gloss, or matte paint. Primer provides an even base. Use thin coats, waiting for each layer to dry before adding more. Lightly sand between coats.
Best for: Colorful opaque finishes
Lacquer Spray
Quick-drying lacquer from a spray can flows smoothly over detailed frame shapes. Use outside with ventilation and avoid inhaling fumes. Apply multiple thin coats.
Best for: Convenient protection layer
Wood Stain
For affordable coloring without completely obscuring the wood grain, apply wood stain. Wipe on evenly, let penetrate 10 minutes, then wipe away excess. Consider a polyurethane top coat for stain protection.
Best for: Simple wood color change
Once your finish of choice fully cures, your frame will have a polished look and added protection from the elements.
Install Mirror
The final step is securing the mirror inside your DIY frame. Run a thin bead of clear silicone adhesive around the inside edge of the frame. Then place the mirror in position. Use clamps or tape to hold it firmly until the silicone sets.
Before adhering, attach any frame backings or braces for hanging. Install D-rings, cleats, or sawtooth hangers to the frame rear.
For larger mirrors, arrange a network of support braces across the frame back. Adhere mirror clips securely along the edges. Then carefully lean the frame upright and position on the wall.
Once your mirror is fused within its new custom frame, hang proudly and enjoy this beautiful focal feature. With the right planning, materials, and techniques, you can create DIY mirror frames to enhance any space.
Tips for Customizing Your Frame
Beyond the basic construction process, there are endless options for customizing DIY mirror frames to match your personal style and space. Keep these tips in mind:
Match Your Decor
Select frame embellishments and finishes that coordinate with your existing room decor. For example, an antique white shabby chic frame for a farmhouse bedroom or an abstract black metal frame in an industrial loft.
Consider the Size
Make sure the frame proportions fit the mirror and wall space. Oversized ornate frames suit large mirrors and generous walls, while dainty frames with minimal details work well for small accent mirrors.
Incorporate Meaningful Materials
Give your frame sentimental value by using materials with significance. For example, barn wood from your family farm or your kids’ colorful painted handprints framing a family photo display.
Shape Outside the Box
Expand beyond basic squares and rectangles. Try unique shapes like circles, triangles, diamonds, or asymmetric silhouettes. Cut multiple smaller mirrors to fit within one bold unconventional frame.
Display 3D Elements
Make your frame multidimensional. Incorporate recessed shelves to display small decor items, ribbons cascading down the sides, fabric textured with beads or buttons, layered mixed media collages, or faux greenery.
Add Some Shine
If your frame feels flat, bring in shine and reflection. Choose glossy paints and finishes or add mirror tiles, metal sheeting, glitter, glass beads, or crystal accents. Just be sure embellishments don’t distract from the central mirror.
Light It Up
You can incorporate lighting right into the frame for beautiful illumination. Position battery-powered string lights behind molding, line the inner edge with LED strips, or mount sconces.
By thoughtfully customizing your DIY mirror frame, you can reflect your unique style while dramatically elevating any living space.
DIY Mirror Frame Ideas
The variety of materials, embellishments, and finishing techniques for building your own custom mirror frame is endless. Here are some specific frame ideas to spark your creativity:
Rustic Wood Frame
Warm, natural wood exudes cozy rustic charm. Distress the surface for an antiqued look. Add metal details like hinges or knobs for contrast.
Mosaic Frame
Make a mosaic mirror by embedding tiles, glass fragments, beads, sea glass, or stones into wood putty covering a plywood base. Add bright pops of color.
Framed Family Photos
Surround a central mirror with meaningful framed family photos. This heartfelt gallery frame tells your story.
Oversized Floater Frame
Let the mirror shine by framing it with a wide yet minimalist floating wood frame painted or stained in a dark hue.
Mirrored Frame
For serious sparkle, cover the outer frame surface with mirrored tiles or acrylic pieces. Layer strips of LED lights between the mirror and wood base.
Window Frame Replica
Make your mirror look like a window with tapered mullions and trim just like real window framing. Paint it any color.
botanical Press Frame
Adorn a mixed media frame base with pressed flowers, leaves, and butterflies under glass or resin for an ethereal accent.
Seashell Frame
Use nautical rope and real seashells to create a coastal frame full of texture and natural character.
Stamped Clay Frame
Roll out air dry clay and press in designs with stamps, shape cutters, or other tools. Let dry fully before painting.
Framed Collage
Cover the frame base with layers of scrapbook paper, photos, ribbons, fabric swatches, and other ephemera for a playful DIY style.
Let these inspiration springboards spark even more creative ideas for your personalized mirror frame. Have fun dreaming up a look that showcases your personality.
Frequently Asked Questions
For first-time mirror framers, uncertainties often arise. Here are answers to some common DIY mirror frame FAQs:
What tools do I need to make a custom mirror frame?
Basic tools like a tape measure, handsaw, hammer, wood glue, nails, sandpaper, clamps, drill, level, paintbrushes, and polyurethane or wood stain will tackle most DIY frames. For more complex wood joining, a miter saw and pocket hole jig also help.
Can I make a frame without power tools?
Absolutely. Handheld hacksaws, miter boxes, wood files, sandpaper, nail hammers, and screwdrivers are sufficient for frames made from pre-cut molding, thin boards, or soft woods like pine that cut relatively easily by hand. Just expect the process to take longer.
What’s the best wood to use for DIY mirror frames?
Opt for wood that takes stain evenly, holds details well, and resists warping. Good all-around choices include poplar, oak, maple, and higher-grade plywoods. Just avoid very soft woods prone to scratches and dents.
Should I paint or stain my custom wood frame?
Stain provides a classic wood look while letting the natural grain show through. Paint completely covers the wood for an opaque, bold color. For a modern mixed look, you can even layer both stains and painted accents on the same frame.
How do I cut perfect 45 degree miters for the frame?
Use a miter box guide with your handsaw for precision 45 degree angles. For power tools, tilt the miter saw to 45 degrees and lock in place. Cut slowly and carefully for clean joints. Doing test cuts on scrap wood helps dial in accuracy.
What’s the best way to join frame corners?
Pocket hole screws or metal 90 degree brackets on the frame back provide the strongest corner joints for DIY frames. Wood glue with nails or clamps delivers classic corner joins for decorative frames. Glue and mitered notches interlock cleanly for a front-facing finish.
How do I hang a heavy mirror and frame securely?
Distribute weight across sturdy French cleats anchored into studs, D-rings with wire, or sawtooth picture hangers spaced every 10-12 inches around the perimeter. Place hanging hardware at least 2 inches from the top so the frame sits flush against the wall.
Can I embellish a frame without advanced woodworking?
Certainly! You can glue on molding trims, small decor objects, acrylic gemstones, novelties like seashells or silk flowers, lace, ribbons, and more without complex tools or wood joining skills. Pop off the glass to access the back for easier decorating.
Building your own custom mirror frame requires careful planning, patience, and persistence. But you can create beautiful DIY frames with simple skills and tools. Follow this guide combined with your creative vision, and you will have stunning mirror focal points reflecting your personal style.