How to Build a Birch Framed Mirror

Framed mirrors are a perfect wall decoration for almost any home, and finding the right one can be quite a task. However, if your choice in mirrors does not come with a frame, building your own frame makes the mirror custom fit to your design. Working with solid lumber is a bit different from purchasing frame pieces already cut to the lengths needed for the mirror frame. Building a birch mirror frame requires solid woodworking skills along with some special power tools.

Things You'll Need

• Measuring tape
• 1- by 4-inch birch lumber
• Electric miter saw
• Drill press
• 1/4-inch drill bit
• Wood glue
• Variable speed drill
• Phillips head screw tip
• 2 1/4-inch wood screws
• Damp cloth
• Router
• 3/8-inch rabbet router bit
• 100 grit sandpaper
• Silicone adhesive

Instructions

1. Measure the width and height of the mirror and subtract 3/4 inch from each measurement. For example, if the mirror is 24 inches wide, the measurement needed is 23 1/4 inches. Cut two pieces of the birch lumber to the measurement of the width with the electric miter saw.

2. Next, add 3 inches to the height measurement. Cut two pieces of the birch lumber accordingly with the electric miter saw.

3. Stand the two pieces from Step 2 on their long edges. Measure from each end and make a mark at 1 1/2 inches. Install the 1/4-inch drill bit in the drill press and set the depth for 1 1/2 inches.

4. Drill two pilot holes inside the 1 1/2-inch mark from Step 3. Apply glue to the ends of the two pieces from Step 1. Place them between the two pieces of lumber with the pilot holes.

5. Secure the pieces together with the variable speed drill and the 2 1/4-inch wood screws. Clean up the excess glue immediately with a damp cloth. Let the glue set up according to the glue manufacturer's instructions.

6. Set the 3/8-inch rabbet bit on the router to 3/8 inches. Place the router inside the birch frame and make a rabbet cut around the perimeter. Sand the edges smooth with 100 grit sandpaper.

7. Apply a small bead of silicone adhesive in the rabbet groove. Place the mirror in the groove and push it gently into place. Clean up excess adhesive immediately. Allow the adhesive to dry before painting or staining the frame.

Tips & Warnings

• Install the screws slowly to avoid splitting the lumber.

• Do not leave power tools or silicone adhesive in reach of children.

• Always use eye protection when using a saw.

References

• Binky's Woodworking: Mirror Frame

Resources

• Canadian Home Workshop: Woodworking Projects---Floor Mirror