How to Update a Large Bathroom Mirror

A mirror can be updated simply by adding a frame.

A large mirror can add a feeling of spaciousness to a bathroom and reflect light, further contributing to an airy feeling. The mirror's style, however, can also make it feel dated. Framing the mirror is one of the quickest, least expensive ways to update the mirror and make it reflect your taste and style. You can tailor the look based on the type of frame and color or finish you choose.

Things You'll Need

• Large mirror
• Window/door trim (preferably with a rabbeted edge)
• Miter saw
• Stain or paint
• Rag or brush
• Epoxy

Instructions

1. Determine how the mirror is attached to the wall. If it is glued, leave it on the wall. If it is held on by decorative mirror hangers (plastic or metal tabs that overlap the edge of the mirror and are screwed into the wall), remove the hangers and carefully take down the mirror.

2. Measure the mirror and write down the exact dimensions.

3. Choose a material for framing. Window or door trim works well for this. For simplicity sake, choose trim that has a small rabbet that will overlap the edge of the mirror. If you don't mind seeing the edge of the mirror, you can choose a trim without a rabbet and just butt the trim against the mirror.

4. Use a miter saw to cut the trim to the correct dimensions. You can miter the corners (cut them at complementary 45-degree angles), or make simple butt joints, where the trim on one side runs past the end of the trim on the other side, making a 90-degree angle.

5. Finish the trim as you wish--with stain, varnish or paint.

6. Allow the finish to cure for up to two weeks to make sure it won't react with the mirror or the epoxy.

7. Set the frame pieces against the mirror, making sure all the pieces fit as you want them to.

8. Squeeze some epoxy onto the edge of the trim that overlaps the mirror and press it against the mirror, making sure you don't use too much epoxy. If some epoxy drips down the mirror, immediately clean it up with a damp rag.

9. Let the epoxy cure and rehang the mirror (if you took it down).

References

• Ask the Builder: Dress Up a Plain Mirror
• Hooked On Houses: Before & After: Bathroom Mirror Makeovers