How to Build a Wood Frame Mirror

Adding the illusion of space is easily achieved through the introduction of mirrors. By increasing the available light in a room as well as expanding the visual space, well-placed mirrors can alter the feel of any living space dramatically. Whether your home décor falls within the country motif or is more elegant, building a custom wood frame mirror is simple and economical. The particular style or theme you intend to match will largely determine the kind of frame material to be used and can vary greatly depending on the motif of the living space it will be hung in.

Things You'll Need

• Simple 3/4-inch-by-4-inch planks / contoured crown or base molding
• Miter or box saw
• Table saw
• Finish nail gun
• Wood glue
• Wood stain or paint
• Sandpaper
• Mirror
• Silicone
• Picture frame wire and loops

Instructions

1. Determine the size of the wood frame. Measure the mirror exactly; the size of the mirror will determine the size of the dado cut around the interior perimeter of the wood frame.

2. Using the table saw, cut a ½-inch-wide-by-3/8-inch-deep dado along the inside back edge of the wood frame material.

3. Cut the wood frame sides. Measure from the longest point within the dado cut and allow at least 1/8 inch extra room for the mirror placement.

4. Glue and finish nail the wood frame together.

5. Fill any joint seam gaps and visible nail holes with wood filler. Finish sand to at least a 220-grit smoothness.

6. Stain or paint the wood frame to the desired finish.

7. Apply a thin bead of silicone caulk along the face-side perimeter of the dado; the bead should be about ¼ inch away from the inside edge. Set the mirror in place and squeeze another bead of silicone caulk along the transition between the mirror and the wood frame. Allow the silicone to cure for the recommended time.

8. Install the picture frame wire hooks 4 inches down from the top of the frame. Wind the picture wire cable thoroughly around each hook so the cable angle between the hooks rests about 2 inches below the top center of the wood frame.