How to Make a Fabric Mirror Frame

Wrapping a frame in fabric is a lot like wrapping a present.

Covering a picture frame in fabric is a quick and inexpensive way to impart color, pattern or texture to the object. Wrapping a frame in fabric is also a convenient way to theme the object to match the decor of the room in which it will be displayed. The technique required to execute this project is similar to the necessary skills for wrapping a present. Creasing the fabric in tight, precise folds allows you to cover the frame without obscuring its shape in bulky material.

Things You'll Need

• Tape measure
• 1 yard fabric
• Scissors
• Spray adhesive

Instructions

1. Measure the frame's depth and thickness. Note the measurements.

2. Add 1 inch to the depth measurement. Double that sum to find your wrapping measurement. For example, if your frame is 2 inches deep, the extra inch makes the measurement 3 inches. Three inches doubled equals a 6-inch wrapping measurement.

3. Add the wrapping measurement to the overall width and length of the frame to determine how to cut your fabric. For example, if your frame is 8 inches by 10 inches with a 2-inch depth, your final sum should be 14 inches by 16 inches.

4. Lay the fabric face down on your work surface. Mark the dimensions you need to cut with a pencil. Cut the shape out with scissors. Snip a small hole in center of the material.

5. Lay the cut fabric face down on your work surface. Center the frame face down on the fabric. Mark the interior and exterior corners of the frame with the pencil. Set the frame aside.

6. Cut a diagonal line from the snipped center of the material to each interior corner mark on the fabric. Once you cut all four lines, you should have a cut X-shape in the middle.

7. Lay the fabric face down on your work surface. Apply a coat of spray adhesive to the backside of the fabric.

8. Lay the frame face down on the fabric. Press the frame into the fabric by applying force to the side of the frame that faces you.

9. Turn the frame over. Smooth the fabric on the top, front surface of the frame.

10. Turn the frame face down again, with a short side closest to you. Fold the outer edge of the fabric up, to cover the side/depth of the frame. Run your finger along the side to ensure the fabric is flat and smooth. There should be 1 inch of fabric extending above the side. Do not fold it yet.

11. Turn the frame 180 degrees to repeat the fold on the other short side.

12. Turn the frame to a long side. Make a diagonal crease in the fabric at each corner, just like you would when wrapping the side of a present. Fold the fabric up to cover the side of the fame. Repeat the creasing and folding process on the last unfolded side.

13. Crease the corners of the 1-inch excess of fabric sticking up above the frame. Fold the 1-inch band over the edge to secure it on the backside of the fame. Repeat the fold on the other sides. The outer edge of the frame should be fully wrapped in fabric now.

14. Lift the corner of one piece of fabric in the center of the frame. Pull the fabric to the backside of the frame to secure it. Repeat the process on the other sides.

15. Follow the glue manufacturer's instructions for drying time before using the frame.

Tips & Warnings

• Use a lightweight, durable fabric like cotton to make the project easier. You may need to reapply adhesive to certain pieces of fabric as you work, depending on how quickly you work and how quickly the adhesive dries.