How to Make a True Mirror

A true mirror, also known as a non-reversing mirror, does not display images backwards as traditional mirrors do. A true mirror can be made by joining two mirrors together at a right angle.

Difficulty: Challenging

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Two traditional, or "plane" mirrors
• Tape

1. The first step is finding two mirrors you can use to construct the true mirror. Ideally, these mirrors should have no frames and should be the same size. You can purchase unframed mirrors in various sizes online or at stores like Wal-Mart.

2. 
   Taping up the two plane mirrors

   The mirrors must be joined together at a right (90 degree) angle. An easy way to do this is to lay one mirror face down on a table, right along the table edge. You can now hold the other mirror against the table and tape the two mirrors together along the outside corner (the tape is applied to the non-mirror side).

3. Once the mirrors are taped, you can stand them up like a picture frame. You want to look into the seam of the mirrors and slightly adjust the angle of the two mirrors until you see a single image of your face.

4. You have now made a true mirror! One of the downsides to the homemade version is the visible seam - you can order pre-made true mirrors online without the seam, or use more complex joining methods to try and reduce or eliminate the seam. If you are handy, you can also try making a custom frame to lock in the angle of the mirrors and make the setup a bit more durable.

Tips & Warnings

• Teachers can use this simple setup in science classes to have some fun and teach the kids about the science of optics.
• Have some fun - try and look into the true mirror and touch certain parts of your face, or apply makeup. You will find it quite difficult!
• Be very careful when working with mirrors - unframed mirrors can have very sharp edges, and there is a risk of breaking the mirrors when working with them.
• True mirrors can be a bit disturbing at first. They display your image as others see it, not as you are used to seeing it in a regular mirror. The difference is very subtle, but can be quite profound the first time you experience it!

[woot]

on 5/4/2009 Thanks for the information about a true mirror. I didn't realize it would be this easy to make!

[edieness]

on 5/3/2009 nice work, you've taught me something. love the article

[ansu101]

on 5/1/2009 I learned something new:)

[kristara]

on 5/1/2009 OMG! That is so cool! I never looked into a true mirror. I have to try this. I am forwarding this one!

[grimsleygl]

on 4/30/2009 Wow! I never heard of a True Mirror before. I'd love to try one sometime...I think! Thanks for sharing this interesting idea. 5*'s and a recommend