How To Refinish A Framed Mirror

How to Refinish a Framed Mirror

If your framed mirror has seen better days, don't despair. With a little time and effort, you can refinish it to look like new. Here are the steps you need to follow:

Materials You'll Need:

Screwdriver
Pry bar (optional)
Clean cloths
Rubbing alcohol
Sandpaper (various grits)
Wood filler (optional)
Primer (for bare wood or metal)
Paint or stain
Polyurethane or clear finish
Gloves
Safety glasses

Instructions:

1. Remove the Mirror

Start by removing the mirror from the frame. To do this, carefully pry away the glazing points holding the mirror in place. If there are no glazing points, you may need to use a screwdriver to remove the screws that are holding the frame together.

2. Clean the Frame

Once the mirror is removed, use a clean cloth and rubbing alcohol to clean the frame. This will remove any dirt or grime that has accumulated over time.

3. Sand the Frame

If the frame is made of wood, sand it with sandpaper to smooth the surface. Start with coarse-grit sandpaper and gradually move to finer grits until the frame is smooth. If there are any deep scratches or dents, you may need to use wood filler to fill them in before sanding.

4. Prime the Frame

If the frame is made of bare wood or metal, apply a coat of primer to help the paint or stain adhere better. Allow the primer to dry completely before moving on to the next step.

5. Paint or Stain the Frame

Now it's time to paint or stain the frame. If you're painting the frame, apply two or three thin coats, allowing each coat to dry completely before applying the next. If you're staining the frame, apply one or two coats, following the manufacturer's instructions.

6. Apply a Clear Finish

Once the paint or stain is dry, apply a coat of polyurethane or clear finish to protect the frame from wear and tear. Allow the clear finish to dry completely before reassembling the mirror.

7. Reassemble the Mirror

Once the frame is dry, reassemble the mirror. Place the mirror in the frame and secure it with glazing points or screws. Make sure to wear gloves and safety glasses when handling the mirror.

Tips:

If the frame is in good condition, you may only need to clean and refinish it. You can skip the sanding and priming steps.
If the frame is made of a delicate material, such as antique wood, be sure to use a gentle touch when sanding and refinishing.
Allow each coat of paint or stain to dry completely before applying the next coat. This will help prevent the finish from peeling or chipping.
Once the mirror is refinished, it's a good idea to apply a coat of wax to protect the finish and make it easier to clean.