Well-placed mirrors in the living area can make the room appear brighter and more spacious. However, worn-out mirror frames can ruin the aesthetics of your space, regardless of their size.
If you want to spruce up your mirror frames on a budget, spray paints are an excellent alternative to replacing them altogether. All you need are a few supplies and free hours to breathe new life into your mirrors.
Spray painting mirror frames is pretty straightforward. Start by cleaning the surface with a damp cloth and thoroughly sanding it. Next, cover the mirror with paper and tape to avoid stains, and apply two layers of primer. Finally, cover the frame with the color coat of your choice.
Spray painting seems effortless, but you must prepare the mirror frames correctly to ensure the results will last. But don’t worry; I will simplify the process and add a few extra tips to sweeten the deal.
Let’s get painting!
Things you will need
Spray painting mirror frames require different materials and tools, but luckily, you would already have most of them lying around the house. Here are a few things you should keep on standby before you start painting the mirror.
● Tack cloth
● Scissors
● Newspaper
● Sandpaper
● Primer
● Spray paint
● Painter’s tape
● And, of course, a mirror that needs some TLC
How to paint mirror frames in 7 quick steps
Step 1: Clean the frame
It’s always best to paint on a clean surface to ensure a smooth finish. Take a tack cloth soaked in warm soapy water and clean the frame thoroughly. Remove all dust and debris before cleaning it again with a dry cloth.
Step 2: Sand the surface
Sanding helps remove any irregularities from the frame’s surface, allowing you to work on an even base. This step is crucial if you’re repainting a frame that has a protective sealant on top.
Using fine-grit paper, sand the frame thoroughly until you’re satisfied with the results.
Pro Tip: When painting a wooden mirror frame, you should fill in any cracks and holes before sanding the surface.
Step 3- Prepare your workstation
Spray painting is undoubtedly fun but can get messy within a few minutes. So unless you want to color your floor along with the mirror frame, spread two to three newspapers or cardboard just to be safe.
Step 4- Cover the mirror
A freshly-painted frame looks spectacular, but if you accidentally get paint on the mirror’s surface, the result can look sloppy!
Fortunately, this can be easily avoided by covering the entire mirror with paper and painter’s tape. Just make sure not to leave any tape touching the frame itself, or you might miss a spot while painting it.
Step 5- Apply primer
You can skip this step if you’re working with an all-in-one paint.
Start by applying a thin layer of primer on the frame and allow it to dry for at least 15 minutes. Once the first coat becomes dry to the touch, apply another thin layer. The primer creates an ideal base for the paint to adhere completely.
Pro Tip: Opt for white primer if you want to spray paint the mirror frame gold or any other light color, such as silver or gold. But if you prefer to spray paint the mirror frame black or another deep shade, you can use a gray-colored primer.
Step 6- Paint away!
After the final layer of primer is dry, pick up the spray paint can and give it a good shake. Start spraying a thin coat of paint and keep a steady hand to avoid oversaturation at any spot. Make sure you cover the top and the sides of the mirror while painting it.
Allow the first layer to dry before going in with another one. If you achieve your desired shade intensity in 2 coats, your job’s done. But if you prefer a more vibrant color, feel free to apply more layers of paint until you are satisfied.
A bathroom mirror frame requires waterproof paint for lasting results, so make sure to buy waterproof spray paint.
Pro Tip: Allow the primer to dry overnight before your spray on the color coat. But make sure to wipe away any dust the frame collects over time.
Step 7- Peel away the tape
Don’t wait for the paint to dry completely before removing the paper and tape from the mirror. If you wait too long and the paint dries with the tape, parts of the frame’s paint may come off when you pull it away.
Best spray paint for mirror frames
Finding a high-quality and superior finish spray paint is crucial if you want professional results. If you’re wondering how to spray paint wood frames, try the Rust-Oleum Painter’s Touch 2X Ultra Cover. It is an oil-based formula that goes on smoothly and resists chipping and fading. The highlight of this paint is its quick drying time which helps you complete your painting projects quickly.
Black frames look modern and chic, but metallic frames have their own appeal. If you’re a fan of metallic colors, try the Rust-Oleum Pure Gold Spray Paint. This paint is highly versatile and works well on different surfaces. So, whether you are working with a wood frame or want to learn how to paint metal frames, this rust-resistant formula is ideal for both.
FAQs
How do you paint a mirror frame without getting it on the mirror?
The best way to paint a mirror frame without getting it on the mirror is by covering the whole surface with paper and some tape. The only part visible should be the frame.
Can you spray paint a mirror?
Yes, you can spray paint a mirror, but pick a paint compatible with the frame’s material. Before buying one for your project, read more about using water-based paints on wood.
Does spray paint stay on mirrors?
Spray paint lasts if you pick one according to the frame’s surface. You can always add a sealant to the color coat for added protection.
How to spray paint a mirror frame without taking it apart?
Cover the sides of the mirror’s surface entirely if you don’t want to remove the mirror from the frame. The best way to get a secure fit is by measuring the dimensions with a tape measure and carefully cutting the paper according to the mirror’s size.
Conclusion
Spray painting is an inexpensive way of upgrading your home, whether you want to paint a bathtub or a mirror frame. With the correct type of paint and technique, everything is possible!
So, get your painting gear on and grab all the frames that need a makeover.
Happy painting!