How to Make a Mirror Out of Driftwood and Shells

Driftwood, like beach glass, is one of those classic coastal decorative elements. Its very nature lends an organic touch to any decor--especially beach houses. You can easily make a driftwood mirror. It can be distressed, or make it a bit more charming by adding seashells. And some of us aren't handy--so here's a very easy project that provides immediate gratification.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Driftwood
• Wood Frame
• Mirror
• Measuring Tape
• Particle board
• Small (1/4 in) nails
• Hammer
• Strong glue

1. Go to an arts and crafts store for your wood frame. Ask for stretcher bars. These are interlocking wood frames used to frame paintings. They come in so many lengths--you can decide what size you want your mirror to be. Best part? They don't cost much at all.

2. Buy a piece of particle board. Bring your frame, if possible, and measuring tape if not. The particle board should be just large enough to overlap about 1 inch of the frame all around. The mirror will be placed in front of it, and the particle board nailed in behind it for support.

3. Buy a piece of mirrored glass at a glass shop. As with the particle board, it should overlap the wood frame--but only by about HALF an inch. This will keep the nail from cracking the mirror when you hammer in the particle board support.

4. This is the hardest step: lay your frame flat on a hard surface, with the front facing down. Center the mirror so that it overlaps about 1/2 inch (or less)on each side. The reflective side should be facing down. Glue the mirror in place, using a very strong glue. Wait for the glue to dry.

5. Center the particle board behind the mirror. It should overlap the mirror by about a 1/2 inch or more. Gently hammer a nail through the particle board on the bottom of the frame, being careful not to hit the mirror. Place nails in the center and at both corners where the particle board meets the frame.

6. Once that is done, brush some glue along the back of the particle board and let it bond to the mirror. This will make hammering the other nails a bit easier. When it is dry, place nails in the sides, and at the top. Turn it over. You should know have a plain wood-framed mirror.

7. Find your driftwood. Look for a piece that inspires you. The best source, is, of course, the beach. It's wonderful to re-use natural objects. You can also buy driftwood. But when you realize it's a piece of wood... you won't believe the prices. You can use four large sized pieces and outline the frame. Or, you can find several little tiny pieces of varying lengths to lay side by side. You may even want to splay the pieces like a sunburst. This part is up to you. Once you have a plan in mind, you must practice the layout and make sure it works.

8. Glue your driftwood to the mirror. Remove piece by piece from your layout. Wait for the glue to bond. Heavier pieces may require a nail gun.

9. Once the glue has dried, staple gun or hammer a string to the back of the frame. The size of the string must depend on the size of the driftwood you used. Hang it, and ask it whose the fairest, even though you know YOU are!

Tips & Warnings

• Stuck for ideas? Shop for driftwood mirrors, either online or in stores. Use some of their creative ideas.
• Once you're done, feel free to add your own touches: shells, or fish netting make excellent additions.
• An easier option: buy a large, cheap, wood frame or mirror at a thrift store or discount outlet, instead of making your own frame.
• Feeling ambitious? Boiling your driftwood, or soaking it for a long time will help bleach it to a paler shade.
• If you choose very heavy wood, you will need extra support to hang the mirror. Add support brackets under it on the wall, or stand it on a floor or dresser for a more casually urban feel.

[xtraordinary]

on 7/11/2008 Excellent article...I love bringing home all of my beach finds and was just thinking about doing this after a recent trip to the coast. Thank you for the great tips! 5 stars!