How to Make a Mirror With a Glass Tile Border or Frame

Turn a plain mirror into a work of art by adding a colorful tile border.

You just walked by that drab mirror in the hallway again. If only there was some way to make that plain mirror a little bit more exciting. Your budget is tight, so you think the boring mirror might be here to stay. It's easy to freshen up that old mirror by adding a tile frame. Use brightly colored tiles and you could even create a piece of art.

Things You'll Need

• Mirror
• Tape
• Newspaper
• Colorful glass tile
• Plastic bag (optional)
• Hammer (optional)
• Strong craft glue or mosaic adhesive
• Tile grout
• Rubber spatula
• Damp sponge

Instructions

Frame Your Mirror

1. Tape old newspaper to the areas of the mirror you are not going to decorate. This will prevent staining and damage to the mirror.

2. Choose a pattern for your border. You may want to align the tile in straight lines, or you might try breaking the tile into small pieces to create a mosaic look.

3. Break the tile by sealing it in a plastic bag and smashing it with a hammer. Stop when the tile is the appropriate size for your intended pattern.

4. Lay your tile out on your mirror in your intended pattern.

5. Use strong craft glue to affix each piece of tile to the mirror in your chosen pattern. Allow the adhesive to dry for 24 hours.

6. Mix the tile grout according to manufacturer's instructions.

7. Fill any spaces between the tiles with tile grout. Use a rubber spatula to smooth the grout into any cracks and spaces between tiles. Smooth the top of the grout with the spatula to remove excess grout and level the grout with the tile. Be careful not to get any grout on the center of your mirror.

8. Allow the grout to dry for 20 minutes. Use a damp sponge to wipe off excess grout and clean the tile. Allow the grout to dry for an additional 24 hours.

9. Remove the newspaper and tape from your mirror. It's ready to hang in your home and brighten any room.

Tips & Warnings

• Find colorful tiles at yard sales or antique stores.

• If you're using translucent glass tiles, use clear glue to prevent discoloration.

• Wear eye protection when smashing the tile.

• Be careful when handling sharp pieces of broken tile.

References

• Craftstylish: How to Create a Mosaic Mirror

Resources

• beJane: Update That Mirror