Framed mirrors can add a bit of light and beauty to almost any space, but sometimes a shiny new mirror doesn’t really mesh with the décor. That doesn’t mean that you must forego a mirror in these areas. Instead, you can hang a distressed mirror. Here’s how you can make one yourself from any mirror.
You’ll need:
- A mirror, free from any backing
- Protective gear (safety glasses, gloves, apron, mask)
- Paint brush
- Paint stripper
- Mauriatic acid
- Rags and paper towels
- Spray bottle and eye dropper
- Black acrylic paint
Step 1: Put on your protective gear and, in a well ventilated area, brush paint stripper on to the back of the mirror, let it sit for a few minutes, and then wipe it off with a rag. If the silver backing isn’t uncovered, do it again, then be sure the mirror is clear of the stripper.
Step 2: Put the muriatic acid in a spray bottle and mist the back of the mirror with it. Use the dropper to create larger distressed spots. Let the acid sit for about a minute or until the reflective coating is dissolved. Clear the acid off the mirror with paper towels.
Step 3: Wipe the mirror clean with a damp rag.
Step 4: Paint over the entire back of the mirror with the black paint and allow it to dry. Voila! You’ve made a distressed mirror!
There are several ways you can distress a frame to match a distressed mirror. Try this effect out in a beautiful barn wood frame, and check out our Facebook page for additional inspiration for your farmhouse or primitive décor.
