What Material is the Mirror Frame Made of?

Abstract

Mirrors are a great way to add interest to a room’s decor. They make a room feel more open and light, and they let guests keep an eye on their look at any time.

While altering the attractiveness of what is reflected in the mirror is more difficult, changing the look of the mirror is much easier.

A mirror frame has the power to determine the overall look of the piece. The entire atmosphere of a mirror is influenced by the frames, which might be light or dark, wood or metal, plain or elaborate. Adding a frame to a mirror is a great idea, but there are a few things to think about when selecting the ideal frame for that elegant piece of glass. Here are a few ideas to remember if you want to jazz up a plain floating mirror.

Mirror Frame Materials

Before we get to an exciting package we have for you, let us discuss the materials that make a perfect mirror frame. Again, we will insist that different people focus on certain features. Some want a surface that is easy to paint or polish. And some people like a mirror frame that is simple and fade-proof. And many prefer a frame made from a strong material at best. Considering these requirements that come from a survey. We have lined for you some great materials that will make a perfect frame for mirrors.

Polished Stone Frame Mirror

Many people like to have historic items in their possession. They have a passion to show good things that contain history and iconic looks. For them, antique things matter the most and attract them likewise. But finding one is difficult at this age. However, they can adopt some designs to bring history to life. Often this method is known as replication of an item. Frames for mirrors can also contain history. Although this can be artificial and original.

A polished stone is nothing but a marble with a shinier look. Many brands give them good names to charge extra fees. Thus, you will need to be smart in dealing with them. Polished stone frames look brilliant and always shine if you make them clean. However, there is a serious threat to them. Since they come from marble, their weight will be a factor. Thus, if you do not hang them ideally, they may fall. And once marble, especially from a frame, falls, it will crack instantly. And with a mirror inside, your combination will fail.

Metal Frame Mirror

If you ask us regarding a perfect frame, we will point to a metal frame mirror. While different aspects come with these frames. People find a great respite with them. The biggest issue is to clean them perfectly and keep them shiny. For that, they do not have to bring in the polishing. Either you can keep their natural display likewise. Or you can edit it by painting. Just a random cloth will clean the surface perfectly. In addition, you must keep them in a good hook. It is because metal deforms easily with dropping on a floor.

At best, metal frame mirrors bring more durability than stones or marbles. They carry good stiffness and good resistance to avoid fracture. However, whenever you place a mirror in them, you will have to consider safety at maximum. In essence, presently you will find many perfectionists that make the perfect metal frames. With variations in designs, there is no other material in the competition with them. Sleekness and elegance come perfectly with them. However, alongside deformation, another issue with these frames is the tarnishing they have to face. Without any coating, they will rust likewise over time.

Wood Frame Mirror

Light in weight and easy to handle, wood frame mirrors find great usage. In essence, they find good support to use as a sample. Different photo and framing studios carry images on the walls with wood frames. This explains how the importance is immense with their usage. Although they do not carry any weight, you do not have to worry about issues like that in metals and marbles. However, at maximum, the damage will happen to the mirror in the case of falling. Apart from that, frames are likely to remain intact.

Wood absorbs pressure ideally due to its strength in nature. And with good thickness, there is no issue with storage. When you increase the thickness of the metals, there is an issue to fit the frame precisely. But with wood frames, you just need perfect nails to clip the mirror in the position. In addition, attaching wood frames is easy. With a good clip or nail behind, they can easily stay with a thread. Moreover, you can improve the attachment by using special clips for frames. Either way, wood makes a great frame. Just try to apply a good polish likewise!

Stainless Steel Frame Mirror

One of the neatest products nearby, stainless steel framed mirror speaks volumes. In essence, it is a frame that offers perfection from different angles. When you consider simplicity, you will find elegance. Sleekness and shine are constant on this material’s surface. A primary reason is the rust-free nature of this steel element. In addition, no corrosion can affect this material. With frames, cleanliness and safety are the primary requirements. We speak a lot about the quality, and with stainless steel you find it.

There is no effect of weight in this frame likewise. Mirrors get into these frames perfectly and make a lightweight combination. In addition, you can adopt different designs with stainless steel. While many metals undergo tarnishing over time. A highly polished stainless steel will not undergo tarnishing. Hence, the frame retains its looks and iconic feel for a long.

Glass Frame Mirror

When we talk about modern designs and frames, glass tops the list. Before we get to the part where you need to keep attention. You will find respite from using a glass frame. At first, a great outlook will be a step away with your selection. Glass always shines even if dull a bit. This comes from the material’s nature. In essence, the reflection is another fine way to be attractive. With a mirror inside and glass on the boundary, the combination is great. But these frames cost a lot when the size is big. It is since only a perfectionist handles this work. Thus, ideal work will be the key for you.

However, glass is not easy to manage in many ways. At first, it gets dirty quickly and does not clean with random methods. You will need an ideal spray and a cloth to clean them. A thing that appears clean takes a lot to make this happen. Thus, you must give time to your mirror frame. Moreover, there is no chance to apply pressure to the frame. With glass, there is no risk that you must afford or think about. Hence, we suggest if you want a single good-looking frame, use glass. For multiple frames, just use one frame with glass likewise.

Mirror Frame Design

The design of a mirror is an important factor to consider in each space, including the bathroom, living room, bedroom, and kitchen. It is OK to make strong selections with the frame because it is usually the most visible ornamental portion of the mirror.

The composition of the mirror frame is the first thing to consider. It can be a metal frame mirror made with royal and polished metals like gold, silver, or bronze, or it can be a wood frame mirror. Plastics and wood are also low-cost possibilities, although they are less durable. Look for out-of-the-box ideas, such as wrapping a frame with cloth, to add a unique touch.

The tint, tone, and color are the next things to consider. Choose a gleaming finish when dealing with metal materials to make a dramatic, eye-catching statement. Alternatively, a matte, dull finish can be used to provide a subtle touch to the more prominent components in the room’s design. The stain on a wood mirror may make it stand out or blend in. Darker wood stain colors contrast with the mirror’s glass to make it pop, while milder tones blend in for a balanced, gentler aesthetic.

For the finishing touch, choose a style. The style of the mirror frame is vital for retaining the heart of the room’s design, which can range from intricate Victorian-style molding to simple modern box design.

5 Tips for Mirror Framing

Mirror framing may be a fun DIY project, but it must be done properly for safety reasons. To make your interior design job as efficient and safe as possible, follow these guidelines.

1. Perform a mock assembly. Do a test assembly once you’ve cut your frame components to the exact size to confirm that they fit together and look good against the mirror. Before putting the parts together, use painter’s tape to hold them together. The use of tape to stabilize the structure can aid in the discovery of gaps or ill-fitting components that contribute to an uneven frame.
2. Prepare wooden frames by sanding them. If you’re not cautious, humidity and moisture in the bathroom, where a vanity mirror would be, will warp wooden mirror frames. Sand the frame and coat it with enough sealant to keep the wood from expanding or decaying.
3. For touch-ups, use a caulk gun. Fill up any gaps in your frame parts with caulk or wood filler to keep moisture and dirt out while also improving the aesthetic of your frame.
4. Begin by putting in one side at a time. Instead of building your frame all at once and then placing it on the mirror, install it piece by piece against your mirror. Begin with the bottom piece and work your way around the mirror frame to the sides and top.
5. Wipe the mirror glass clean. Because adhesive does not adhere to filthy glass surfaces, properly clean your mirror before applying your frame.

How to Frame a Mirror

After you’ve decided on a design, the following step is to find a professional who can install the frame on the mirror for you, or you can also decide to frame it by yourself. Many glass stores provide frame installation services, which they can execute properly and at a fair cost. You might even be able to see pre-framed mirrors and frame samples in person. To construct a simple DIY bathroom mirror frame, follow these instructions.

1. Gather Your Tools and Materials

First and foremost, gather your mirror framing materials and tools. Some of these goods may already be in your house from a previous DIY project, but if not, you can find them at your local hardware shop or through internet sellers like Amazon. To get started, you’ll need the following items:

• Primed MDF baseboards
• A tape measure
• A level
• A miter saw
• Liquid nails or extra-strength wood glue
• Some caulk and a caulk gun
• Extra fine sandpaper
• Paint
• A paintbrush, roller, or spray gun
• Painter’s tape
• A tack cloth

Though the color of the paint is entirely up to you, be sure it isn’t water-based. The MDF boards, which are naturally absorbent, will be painted. They absorb water and moisture quickly, resulting in splintered, swollen, or cracked boards.

Because of this, oil, non-water-based acrylic, and latex paints are the best options. Even if the boards are usually sealed, it’s not worth the risk, especially when you’ve invested so much time and work into a DIY project.

2. Measure Your Mirror

Use a tape measure to estimate the measurements of your mirror by placing it along the edge of the mirror. Make a note of any mirror clips and how they’ll fit into your frame while you’re doing it. Take measurements all the way to the top of the clips if you wish to hang the frame from the wall above the clips.

Measure the distance between the mirror and other things on the wall, such as light switches, shelving, a backsplash, or a countertop or vanity. In general, you’ll want at least a couple of inches of space between the frame and anything else.

You’ll be able to select the size of the frame and whether it will be fastened to the wall or the mirror itself after obtaining all of these dimensions.

3. Cut the Baseboards

To cut the proper lengths of the boards, use a miter saw set at a 45-degree angle. Many home improvement companies, like Home Depot or Lowe’s, sell pre-mitered trim or have the equipment you may use in the store if you don’t have a miter saw.

When you’re finished, separate the four pieces of MDF board, as you’ll be installing them individually later. It’s a good idea to lay them down flat to make sure everything lines up properly when you hang the mirror frame.

Non-mitered boards with ornamental corner block moldings are another option. Note: If you’re hanging the DIY frame on the wall, you’ll need to cut a slot in the wood (for the mirror), so the whole thing sits level with the wall.

4. Paint the Baseboards

The real fun starts when you’ve trimmed the baseboards to size. It’s time to put some paint on them. If you’re framing a bathroom mirror, it could make sense to match the hue to your vanity, but the choice is entirely yours. Paint the boards on both sides with a roller, brush, or spray gun once you’ve decided on a color. No water-based paint, please!

Remember to paint the back of the chair, since it will reflect in the mirror. Feel free to add a second layer to your boards if you think they’d benefit from it. Allow about two hours for the paint to dry.

5. Sand the Baseboards

Use an extra-fine sanding pad to lightly sand the baseboards, then wipe them clean with a tack cloth.
If your DIY is for the bathroom mirror that will be exposed to water, you may want to add a topcoat or sealer at this time. A polyurethane coat could work well, and you’ll be able to pick among matte, satin, semi-gloss, or high-gloss sheens.

Make sure you’re using an oil-based product, just like the paint. Allow your mirror frame to dry for four to eight hours if using this sort of polyurethane.

6. Install the Mirror Frame

After the paint has dried up, it’s time to put the mirror frame together. Apply liquid nails to the board’s back, starting with the bottom piece and avoiding the edge closest to the mirror. Press the frame against the mirror or the wall, and use a level to ensure it is straight. Make use of a painter’s tape to keep everything in place while the construction adhesive cures.

Rep the process, starting with the top piece and ending with the two side pieces. Remove any extra adhesive from the wall or mirror using a damp cloth.

7. Touch Up the Frame

Remove the painter’s tape and caulk any uneven corners once the mirror frame has dried fully (approximately 24 hours). Run a bead of silicone caulk on any gaps or joints using a caulk gun and smooth with a damp finger. Touch up with paint when it has dried.

8. Be Creative and Customize Your Mirror Frame

The simplest approach to frame wall mirrors is to use an MDF baseboard, but you can also use other materials to create one-of-a-kind artwork. There are several DIY mirror frame options available. Try reclaimed wood boards for a rustic effect or a bright paint color to match the wall color or wallpaper if you prefer the look of wooden frames. To further transform your room, you may paint a specific design, add a textural feature, or consider adding a string of lights. With a task like this, your imagination is the limit, and isn’t that the whole idea of a DIY project?

Conclusion

Mirror framing is a creative way of jazzing up your floating mirror. Once you are certain about the material that you want to make use of, you may decide to call a professional to frame it for you or follow the DIY step given in this article. You can choose to use a metal frame mirror, a wood frame mirror, or even a stainless steel framed mirror.