How to Make a Mylar Mirror

Make your own mirror with inexpensive Mylar sheets.

Mylar is a metallic-coated plastic material often sold in sheets or as the material in helium balloons. The safety benefit of Mylar for a mirror is that it does not break like glass does, creating dangerously sharp shards in the process. Mylar is a safe alternative to mirror glass for use in crafts, children's rooms and baby toys. It is also easier to cut to the sizes and shapes you need for various projects.

Things You'll Need

• Cardboard
• Picture frame (optional)
• Permanent marker
• Utility knife
• Mylar sheet
• Spray adhesive

Instructions

1. Draw a shape the size you want your mirror onto a piece of cardboard. If you are using a frame, simply remove the cardboard backing and use it.

2. Cut along your drawn lines with a utility knife.

3. Set the cardboard shape in the center of a Mylar sheet and trace it with a permanent marker. Draw a separate shape outside the traced shape, about an inch larger if you are not using a frame. If you are using a frame, the drawn lines are sufficient.

4. Cut around the outermost drawn lines with a pair of scissors.

5. Spray one side of the cardboard with spray adhesive. Lay it adhesive-side down onto the Mylar. If you have left extra on the sides because you are not using a frame, set the cardboard within the original drawn lines that match the size of the cardboard. Smooth the Mylar over the surface of cardboard to eliminate ripples or bubbles.

6. Fold back the extra Mylar, if any, on each side and tape it to the back of the cardboard with clear tape. If you cut the Mylar the same size as the cardboard, slip it into the back of your frame to display it.

References

• Model Research Labs: Using Myler Covering Materials