6 Easy Upgrades That Make a Plain Mirror Look Way More Expensive
When it comes to decor, a simple style can be chic—but it can also be, well… simple. If your plain mirrors are feeling a little ho-hum, we’ve got good news: You don’t have to shell out for an entirely new piece. Instead, roll up your sleeves and do a little afternoon DIY magic to take your basic mirror to the next level. Let these projects inspire you—all are easy to do, and all bring big results.
Put small mirrors on display with a concrete base
Make a small glass mirror feel like art by crafting a concrete base that’s ideal for a tabletop—or even wall—display. Group them for an extra cool look, as seen in the photo by Sugar & Cloth above.
Turn a frameless mirror into a pricey-looking ladder mirror
If you prefer a minimalist look but are still craving a bit of a makeover, this hack by Sara Martinez is the one for you. It features a totally plain IKEA piece that’s framed with wood to replicate the ladder style of a mirror Martinez had her eye on that topped $400. How Scandi-chic is the final product?
Give a plain mirror a sculptural rattan frame
Rattan mirrors are all the rage, and this one is extremely simple to create without spending much money at all. Would you have guessed that Charlotte Smith actually created hers using a basket and a $5 mirror from the craft store? The result has the look of 1970s-chic mirrors that climb to $100 or more.
Add resort style to a basic round mirror
The great thing about a raffia frame like this one is that it doesn’t need to look perfect to be stunning. This sunburst-style piece by Emily Connett feels like something you’d see in a fancy resort hotel. For the procect, Connett used a round craft store mirror and then jazzed it up to create a breezy, boho look.
Turn a new mirror vintage
You don’t have to wait to find the perfect antique treasure; instead, make your own. Follow Jamie Lundstrom’s tutorial to make an existing piece look like something passed down from the 1900s, like the sophisticated mirror she made above.
When in doubt, make it metallic
If you love gold leaf, try switching things up with copper leaf to truly take your mirror to the next level. On her blog, Marlene Sauer provides the full instructions for this ultra glam IKEA hack.