I was hand-me-downed this gorgeous mirror, perfect for our office/spare room once it’s finished. But it was a particularly unwelcoming shade of gold that would be sitting amongst our brushed nickel finishings. It’s an easy fix really, so today I’m sharing how to paint a mirror frame so you can repaint your own, too!
Mirror Frame Repainting Tools
- Painter’s tape (edit: I now recommend Frogtape)
- Old newspapers/magazines/paper to cover mirror area
- Spray paint
Protect Your Mirror While Painting
Use painter’s tape to first cover the mirror glass at the edges, flush against the frame. It’s very important to be as close as possible or you’ll end up with paint in the wrong spot or not enough on the frame.
You’re better off with just a little too much tape at the frame edge than not enough. I used a ballpoint pen to tuck in the extra very easily.
Next, add newspaper to cover the rest of the mirror plate that is exposed, finishing the newspaper edges with more painters tape to ensure the frame is fully sealed off from the mirror plate (below).
Once the mirror is covered, wipe down the frame with a slightly damp rag. Mine was sitting in storage gathering dust for who knows how long beforehand, so this steps helps ensure best application.
How to Paint a Mirror Frame
Bring this project outdoors with lots of newspapers/drop cloths. Set up a work space you can cover with newspaper and not worry if the wind carries the paint (I recommend in the grass because it will get cut eventually). Your driveway or sidewalk may be wearing that color for a while if it gets on the concrete so I never suggest working with paint on those surfaces.
I however, did not have time before the rain on the day I did this to set up shop downstairs (I live on the third floor and the mirror is pretty heavy) so I overly covered my deck with newspapers and it was fine. Still would always prefer and recommend the grass if possible though, with some sort of tarp/newspapers.
The Outcome? It took about two coats, plus some extra attention in certain areas, but it all covered as expected in the end.
Pro tip: The areas that are giving you trouble should dry completely before adding more spray paint or it will just move around the already not-sticking spray paint even more. Spraying from a longer distance as opposed to right on top of the frame really helped too, it goes on lighter and sticks better.
My Newly Painted Mirror Frame
From gold to silver this mirror held up beautifully! It’s a simple project done in just an hour or two and makes a big impact.
I loved how my mirror turned out so much that I also sprayed with my bar cart‘s mirror tray (see that before and after here). This spray painting technique is so easy you can use it with virtually any mirrored or glass items.
The moral of the story is that if you like it, and you can spray paint it, don’t toss it. Update old decor with a quick coat of spray paint and keep your wallet in your bag.
Have you ever refinished a mirror frame? I’d love to hear your experience, hacks and tips in the comments below!
