This Tiktoker Uses A Rotary Tool To 'Tattoo' A Mirror—and The Result Is Stunning

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Mirrors can be beautiful additions to a home's decor. More than just a bathroom or dressing room staple, a decorative mirror can increase natural light in a space or make a small room appear larger. It can also double a gorgeous view — if your home is lucky enough to have one. A mirrored wall, such as those popular in the '70s, and making a comeback, is perfect for that. Mirrors can also reflect a beautiful piece of artwork when they're placed on the opposite side of the room. With the right frame or by displaying a collection of them on a gallery wall, mirrors can become artwork themselves. To elevate a mirror as artwork even further, consider etched mirrors. Commercially, this is typically done using acid or with a laser. Etching adds a touch of elegance to an already decorative piece. You can do it yourself, though, and create a piece of functional artwork that is completely personalized to your taste. 

TikTok user @jaytessarta put her tattoo skills to work to etch a mirror using a stencil and a rotary tool. This is just one more genius way you should be using a Dremel around your home. Like a tattoo, this technique involves using a stencil to transfer the design and tracing the pattern with the tool. But you don't need to be a tattoo artist to pull off this gorgeous piece.

First, @jaytessarta chose a small, octagonal mirror with a simple brass frame for her project. Then she covered the entire surface with gel deodorant and placed her stencil on it. One commenter pointed out that the deodorant allows the ink to transfer from the stencil to the mirror. Jaytessarta chose two birds in flight for her pattern. Once the pattern was transferred to the mirror, she used her Dremel to carefully trace each line until she had etched the entire design. When she finished, she cleaned the mirror with regular glass cleaner and paper towels. The effect is a stunning new piece of artwork. This is the perfect way to upcycle old mirrors around the house. 

If you don't have a Dremel, you can still get the look by using glass etching cream, such as Armour Etch. Transfer your pattern onto a vinyl material and cut out the design. Spread the glass etching cream over the design and let it sit as directed. Wash the cream away and remove the pattern template. No matter which method you choose to create your piece, it's very important to use proper safety precautions. You should always work in a well-ventilated area. Wear safety glasses and a respirator mask to protect your eyes and lungs from chemicals or tiny glass particles that may become airborne.