Repurpose A Builder-Grade Bathroom Mirror As A Chic Entryway Focal Point
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Do you think about replacing your builder-grade bathroom mirror every time you brush your teeth? No matter what kind of fancy faucets or stylish tile you've installed, that big frameless rectangle (while functional) is one bathroom essential making your space look outdated and tired. You may be hesitant to replace your large bathroom mirror, unsure of what exactly you should do with it. It turns out you can repurpose a bathroom mirror as a chic entryway focal point. One TikToker, @dawson.diy, figured out a simple but stunning way to transform his mom's entryway, using an old bathroom mirror destined for the dump and some basic woodworking skills anyone can master. To complete the project, he carefully uninstalled the bathroom mirror, adhered it to a sturdy piece of plywood, built a frame around it, and finished it with a coat of paint.
You don't have to be a Craftsman-sponsored expert like @dawson.diy to pull off this project, but converting a frameless mirror that hangs thanks to a little adhesive and a few tiny clips to a floor mirror that stays in place in a busy entryway brings a unique set of challenges. Having a plan, plenty of patience, and a spacious workspace are just as important as using the right tools and materials. You'll also need to enlist the help of a friend when it's time to uninstall the mirror and move it to your workspace, and again once you're ready to move it into place. This hack will work anywhere you've got enough space for a floor mirror, but it's ideal if you're looking for an affordable hack to make your entryway look bigger.
Choosing materials for your mirror upgrade
The cost of repurposing a bathroom mirror will largely depend on its overall size, since you'll need to purchase a piece of plywood that exactly matches the dimensions, as well as enough framing wood to completely surround the front and sides. The 23/32 in x 4 ft x 8 ft RTD Sheathing from Home Depot should be both large and thick enough to support your project, and costs around $35. You'll also need a tube of heavy-duty construction adhesive, which will cost around $10. To keep the project affordable, look to Facebook Marketplace or even your own scrap pile to find trim pieces long enough to frame your mirror.
@dawson.diy TRASH TO TREASURE!! Before you throw away that old mirror, try this! I'm SO happy with how this looks in my mom's hallway/entryway we painted a couple weeks ago. What do you think!?! Follow me @dawson.diy to see what I make next for my Christmas present series!! #CraftsmanPartner #trashtotreasure #custommirror #diymirror #furnitureupcycle Depicted use is for illustrative purposes only. Always follow manufacturer's operating instructions and warnings.
Since you'll effectively be creating a floor mirror, to avoid the superstitious seven years of bad luck that may come if it breaks, you won't want to penny pinch when it comes to the boards used to create the outside of the frame. When it comes to creating a DIY mirror frame on a budget, thin or elaborate decorative pieces that will be visible from the front are fine. However, you should use sturdier woods and perhaps a few nails, along the outer edge to give your floor mirror a secure and sturdy base on which to rest. A miter saw and a finishing tool like the Craftsman 20V MAX Cordless Detail Sander will help immensely with getting a professional finish on your wood components. Your final step will be to fill and sand any rough spots before using paint, stain, sealant, or a combination to achieve your desired finish.