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Builder Grade to Beautiful: Ideas for Framing Bathroom Mirrors

Transform your basic bathroom mirror into something stunning with these DIY ideas for framing bathroom mirrors.

DIY bathroom builder grade mirror framing ideas

So, have you ever looked at your bathroom mirror and thought, “Hmm, this could use a little something extra”? (The mirror, not you of course.) Well, you’re not alone! That’s why today, I’m here to give you some DIY ideas for framing bathroom mirrors.

Let’s start with the basics. What exactly is a builder grade mirror? Well, it’s that plain old mirror that comes glued to the wall of most bathrooms when you move into a new place. It’s functional, sure, but it’s not exactly stylish. That’s where DIY framing comes in!

Now, before we dive into the fun stuff, let’s talk about the pros and cons of a builder grade mirror. On the plus side, they’re usually large and functional, providing plenty of reflection for all your primping needs. But on the downside, they can be a bit, well, boring.

They lack that decorative touch that can really elevate a bathroom’s design. Let me put it this way—have you ever seen a plain builder grade mirror in a professionally designed bathroom?

So, how do we fix that? With DIY framing, of course! When it comes to materials, there are a few options to consider. Wood is a classic choice, offering a warm and rustic feel. You can opt for simple molding for a clean and modern look, or get creative with decorative trim for something a bit more ornate. Or, you can use materials like metal or even tile for a unique and unexpected twist.

No matter what materials you choose, the key is to measure twice and cut once! You’ll want to make sure your frame fits snugly around your mirror for a polished and professional finish. And don’t forget the adhesive!

A strong adhesive will ensure that your frame stays put, even in the steamiest of showers. If you are renting, don’t worry, I’ve got you. Some ideas for framing your mirror with a removable frame have been included in my DIY list below.

So, are you ready to get started? With a little creativity and elbow grease, you can turn any bathroom mirror into a stylish focal point that you’ll be proud to show off! Go ahead and scroll down for some inspiration.

1
DIY Arched Mirror
functional-decor.com

Arched Mirror Hack

Derek and Danielle really loved the idea of an arched mirror, so when they decided to update their builder's grade bathroom mirror, they went with an arch. No need to remove the mirror, just add over it! I love this unique idea.
Get the Tutorial
2
www.shineyourlightblog.com

Oyster Shell Mirror

Give your bathroom a coastal, nautical, or beachy makeover and include this beautiful DIY oyster shell framing idea! So beautiful.
Get the Tutorial
3
West Elm Rounded Mirror Dupe
www.studioadash.com

West Elm Rounded Mirror Dupe

Ashley loves the arched mirrors at West Elm, and decided to turn her bathroom mirror into one. She took the mirror to a local glass and mirror shop who cut the shape for $50. Then she framed it using painted PVC trim!
Get the Tutorial
4
homeandhallow.com

Craftsman Style Painted MDF Frame

Casey framed all of the bathroom mirrors in her house using this technique. Best part (as far as I am concerned) is that you don't have to make any miter cuts!
Get the Tutorial
5
hanashappyhome.com

Double Framed Mirror

Use thin trim to create a frame for a more modern look. Take it up a notch and do a double frame like this one!
Get the Tutorial
6
Add a more interesting mirror on top of your builder's grade bathroom mirror
www.youtube.com

Add Another Mirror!

This Lowe's video shows you how to update a builder's grade bathroom with a few different easy ideas. I love this mirror update. All they did was stick a more interesting mirror on top of the one on the wall! I had to include this even though it isn't technically a frame.
Get the Tutorial
7
How to make a DIY mirror frame

Faux Barnwood Mirror Frame

Learn how to make a mirror frame DIY on a budget! Keep your current mirror in place and hang this faux barnwood frame over the top. It looks great, it's stylish, and you can also remove it at any time.
Get the Tutorial
8
diy mosaic tile mirror
centsationalstyle.com

Mosaic Tile Bathroom Mirror

Kate created this mosaic tile frame for a mirror she was adding to her bathroom. However, you can do the same technique around (or on top of) your builder grade mirror as well!
Get the Tutorial
9
framing a large mirror using mirror mate
thehoneycombhome.com

Mirror Mate Frame

Why reinvent the wheel? Of course there is a product out there you can purchase to frame your mirror. It is called Mirror Mate. Just enter dimensions and purchase!
Get the Tutorial
10
screen molding bathroom mirror DIY frame
withlovemercedes.com

Screen Molding Frame

For less than $40, Mercedes created this modern, streamlined frame using plastic screen molding. She spray painted it black and it turned out amazing!
Get the Tutorial
11
Wood Trim & Bead Frame
ourfauxfarmhouse.com

Wood Trim & Bead Frame

Make a basic wood frame look more expensive by adding half wooden beads around it. Then paint it all one color for a finished look.
Get the Tutorial
12
Bathroom mirror frame using kitchen tiles
DIY with Regina Mankah (screenshot from video)

Mirrored Kitchen Tile Frame

Inspired by some high-end mirrors she saw online, Regina created a mirrored frame using kitchen tile cut to size. This would have been so expensive to purchase instead of DIY!!!
Get the Tutorial
13
West Elm-Inspired Mirror Frame
simplyhouselove.com

West Elm-Inspired Mirror Frame

Monica created this bathroom mirror frame based on an industrial style frame from West Elm that was way too expensive and not the right size. I love the way it turned out!
Get the Tutorial
14
Decorative Wood Chair Rail Frame
celebratednest.com

Wood Chair Rail Frame

Create a wood frame for your mirror using decorative trim. For this project, they used wood chair rail to make the frame and then painted it!
Get the Tutorial
15
DIY boxed mirror frame
www.ohohdeco.com

Box Frame Mirror

While you are updating the look of your mirror with a frame, why not add a bit more storage? This box frame allows you to add a few things to the shelf and even hang a small plant!
Get the Tutorial
16
renter friendly chair rail frame for mirror
DIY Power Couple (screenshot from video)

Chair Rail Trim Frame

This is a renter-friendly idea for updating your mirror. Paint chair rail trim and use mounting tape to frame your mirror with it!
Get the Tutorial
17
Faux Wood Contact Paper Mirror Frame
Home Goodiys (screenshot of video)

Contact Paper Frame

This video shows how to make some inexpensive updates to a bathroom in a rental. Among the great ideas is this faux wood contact paper frame. It goes right on the mirror and can be removed!
Get the Tutorial
18
how to decorate a mirror frame using decoupage and fabric
modpodgerocksblog.com

Decoupage a Mirror Frame

Make a cheap frame for your bathroom mirror and then decorate it with Mod Podge and your favorite fabric! This decoupage mirror is an easy home decor project for beginners.
Get the Tutorial
19
geometric peel and stick mirror decals
www.youtube.com

Geometric Mirror Sticker Frame

This look is similar to the mirrored kitchen tile frame from earlier, but is much easier! These are just peel and stick wall decals in a Greek geometric shape. don't they look awesome?
Get the Tutorial
20
French Trumeau Mirror Frame DIY using bendable molding
troispetitesfilles.blogspot.com

French Trumeau Mirror Frames

Victoria turned her large mirror into two smaller mirrors using paint, bendable molding, and a ton of creativity! She wanted French Trumeau mirrors and that is exactly what she got. This has to be the biggest transformation on the list.
Get the Tutorial
21
update bathroom mirror with shelving and frames
www.dontdisturbthisgroove.com

Split Into Two!

Brandi decided to leave her large mirror in place and just split it into two with frames and shelving! The shelves were built in front of the mirror and then she framed the two sides so it looked like 2 different mirrors. Such a great idea!
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22
floating frames over bathroom mirror
eclectictwist.com

Floating Frame

Use an existing frame for your mirror, but don't just add it to the outside—have it float over the mirror. Here they added two frames over that super large mirror using fishing line and it looks great!
Get the Tutorial
23
Duck Tape Bathroom Mirror Frame
@okkuurritsmichael on TikTok (screenshot)

Duck Tape Mirror Frame

Yes, that is Duck Tape! This is as easy as you think it is… check out this TikTok for proof.
Get the Tutorial
24
DIY Beachy Glass Gem Bathroom Mirror Decor
themrsinglink.com

Glass Gem Mirror

It is super easy to add a glass gem 'frame' on your mirror using hot glue. If you want a beachy look, add some shells as well.
Get the Tutorial
25
shop.mrkate.com

Painted Mirror

Okay, I know, I know… this isn't a frame and it isn't a bathroom. However, I wanted to include this because it is such a fun way to update a mirror! Wouldn't this be great in a kid or teen bathroom?
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Which of these ideas for framing bathroom mirrors is your favorite? Let me know in the comments and then check out these other great DIY home improvement ideas: