Trash to Treasure: Create a Stenciled Mirror

If you have an old mirror that is marked and looks ready to trash, turn this mirror into a treasure by stenciling the inside edges. You can also find mirrors at flea markets, yard sales or antique shops. Stenciling an older mirror is a great way to cover any blemishes or nicks on the mirror. I find that a mirror with a wide border and one that is at least 12" in both length and width gives me the best results, but any size will work. If you are new to stenciling, choose a stencil that is simple and will only need one to two colors. If you are experienced at stenciling, you can choose a stencil with a more intricate design that will need several color changes. This is a fun weekend project to do with your girlfriends or family.

Stenciled Mirror

Supplies:

Mirror
Stencil
Glass paint
Ivory acrylic paint
Paint tape
Q-tips
Small stencil brushes
Scissors
Sandpaper

Directions:

1. Wash and dry the mirror frame. If there are any rough areas around the edge of the frame, use a piece of sandpaper to smooth the frame. Place paint tape around the inside edges between the frame and mirror.

2. Pour a small amount of ivory paint in an old bowl. Paint the frame border of the mirror ivory. Let dry. I find that a second coat of paint is often needed to ensure the frame is completely covered. If you need a second coat, repeat this step. After the frame is completely dry, remove the paint tape.

3. Now it is time to decide where you are going to place the stencil. You can use a tape measure to find the center of the mirror. This will help with the placement of the stencil. If the stencil doesn't fit properly on the mirror, you can cut the edges or part of the stencil off. Wash the mirror with glass cleaner before placing the stencil on the mirror. Place the stencil on the mirror once it is cleaned. Secure the stencil to the mirror using the paint tape. Lay the mirror flat on a secure work area.

4. I find it is easiest to have a paint brush for each color being stenciled. Pour each paint color in a separate bowl. Also, it is important to follow the manufacturer's directions found on the glass paint bottles. Stencil one color at a time, and let paint dry before stenciling another color.

5. Carefully dab your stencil brush into your first color, then tap the brush on the edge of the dish to remove excess paint. Dab your first color of paint on your stencil design. Let this color dry completely before stenciling the next color. I find that using a Q-tip lightly covered in paint can help to fill in small areas of the stencil that a paint brush may not cover. Repeat this step for the remaining stencil design and colors. When all colors are dried, carefully remove the stencil and tape. Wash the stencil and brushes. Repeat these steps if stenciling another area of the mirror.

6. I let my stenciled pieces that are painted with glass paint sit for at least a week to ten days. This allows the paint to settle. Again, follow the manufacturer's directions for specific details.

This stenciling project can also be done on old windows, glass table tops or glass dishes. Have fun with your girlfriends coming up with creative ways for turning trash glass items into treasures. Stenciled mirrors make great one-of-a-kind house warming gifts.

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