Can I Add a Frame Onto a Mirror That Is Already Hung?

Wood

• Trim out a mirror that is already hung with a wood molding frame. To cover the edges of the mirror with the molding, fill in the space between the perimeter of the mirror and the wall. Measure the depth of the mirror as it hangs; the distance between the front mirror edge and the wall is typically less than 1 inch. Cut four strips of wood equal to the depth measurement to fit around the mirror as it hangs on the wall. The wood strips should be slightly less wide than the wood molding. Attach the wood strips to the wall with fast-drying construction adhesive so that the edges are flush with the edges of the mirror. Cut four strips of wood molding to fit around the perimeter of the mirror. Miter the corners so that the finished project appears to be a framed mirror. Glue the molding to the wood strips with construction adhesive. The bottom edges of the molding should overlap the perimeter edges of the mirror.

Tiles

• Create a tiled frame directly onto the face of the perimeter of a mirror that is already hung using fast-drying construction adhesive. Small 4-inch square tiles work well to create a tiled mirror frame; select from ceramic, metal or glass tiles. Apply the adhesive in an S formation to the center of the back of the tile, then press the tile to the center of the edge of one side of the mirror. Hold the tile in place until the adhesive dries. You can also hold the tile in place with painter’s tape. Work from the center to the top and to the bottom of the mirror, adding tiles to fit one edge. Follow the process to add tiles to all four sides of the mirror.

Mosaic

• With fast-drying glue, you can add a mosaic frame onto a mirror that is already hung. Hot glue sticks and a glue gun make it possible to apply the small bits of mosaic glass and stone to the mirror while it hangs vertically. Apply the adhesive to a small area, then press mosaic bits into the glue. Hold a section of cardboard against the mosaics for two to four minutes until the hot glue hardens. Continue to work in small sections until the mirror frame is complete.

Faux Frame

• Create a faux stained glass frame around a mirror that is already hung using self-adhesive lead strips and stained glass paint. Create a pattern or a random design on the perimeter of the mirror with the leading strips, then fill between the strips with paint. Select the brand of stained glass paint that is designed to be applied vertically as well as horizontally.