Upgrading Your Builder Grade Mirror

When I redid our loft bathroom, I really liked how big the mirror was, especially in comparison to the rest of the space because this is a really massive bathroom. However, after I redid everything else, I realized the mirror just looked bare and contrasted with the rest of the space. I decided to build a custom frame for it!

Upgrading Your Builder Grade Mirror | Step-By-Step

First, I measured the mirror. I went to the store and got some 1x3 planks and a few fun pieces of trim to glue onto the 1x3 to give even more of a custom look. I cut everything down to the sizes I needed and I mitered the corners to 45 degree angles. Pro tip: when you're measuring the wood you're going to cut, you want to measure long end to long end on a mitered cut. This will ensure the pieces fit together seamlessly.

I laid all of the cut pieces out and I glued the trim to the 1x3 using wood glue, using clamps to keep everything in place while it dried. Then, I put them on a drop cloth and spray painted everything a nice gold color. Looking back, I probably should have primed them first, but I was kind of in a rush. I ended up needing to use 3-4 coats of paint, so in the end I didn't end up saving myself any time at all.

Once all of the pieces were dried, I removed the glass from my light fixture so it wouldn't get in the way and I cleaned my mirror really well with Windex. I used wood glue to attach the frame pieces directly to the mirror. I used tape to hold the separate pieces up while the glue dried, and baby wipes to clean up any of the wood glue that leaked through.

After everything was dry, I removed the tape and it was done! The frame sits completely on the mirror and it doesn't bump up against the wall on the far side. It's not perfect, but it is a simple, temporary, and inexpensive fix and I like how it pulls the space together. I've linked everything you'll need to do this project yourself below.

Upgrading Your Builder Grade Mirror | Shop