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How to make a D.I.Y. industrial grid mirror

Newly made industrial grid mirror on table next to entrance.

Overview

It’s easy to create a stylish mirror for your home. You can achieve this window-pane effect by painting half-round dowel moulding (which is flat on one side and curved on the other) and installing it over self-adhesive acrylic mirror tiles. There is no glass-cutting required for this D.I.Y. project – all you’ll need is four packets of three 300mm squares to cover a standard plywood sheet.

Safety tip: Always wear the appropriate safety equipment (disposable gloves, mask and safety glasses, for example) and always follow the instructions for the product or equipment.

Steps

  1. 1

    Set up your work area

    Set up your work bench and lay out a drop sheet in a well-ventilated area. Using a damp cloth, wipe over the face of a 1200mm x 896mm x 9mm plywood sheet to remove any dust, then position it flat.

    Person wiping plywood sheet with a cloth.
  2. 2

    Plan your acrylic mirror squares

    Set out 300mm acrylic mirror squares to cover the plywood, removing the adhesive backing to press them into position, flush with the edges.

    Green Bunnings hammer
    Tip: Using an acrylic mirror avoids having to work with glass and potential breakages. The protective blue coating on the mirror tiles will be removed later in the process.
    Person aligning acrylic mirror squares on plywood.
  3. 3

    Cut the frame ends

    On 18mm x 6mm half-round dowel, mark two 1204mm side frames and two 900mm end frames. Use a mitre box with a handsaw to cut the ends at 45°, ensuring they face inwards. Check the fit.

    Green Bunnings hammer
    Tip: The extra millimetre allows for the width of the saw blade so the frame is flush with the plywood edge.
    Person using mitre box to cut dowel with a handsaw.
  4. 4

    Cover the mirror square joins

    Cut the internal pieces of dowel to cover the mirror square joins, with two 1164mm pieces and nine lengths of 275mm.

    Green Bunnings hammer
    Tip: Double-check the measurements against the plywood before square-cutting the ends, as the sheeting size can vary slightly.
    Person measuring plywood with a ruler.
  5. 5

    Sand the trim

    Smooth all cuts using 180-grit abrasive paper with a sanding block to remove any breakout. Wipe away any dust with a damp cloth and set the pieces out, flat side down. Shake the aerosol can well before spraying on three light coats in a sweeping motion, leaving to dry thoroughly after each coat.

    Person wearing gloves spraying pieces of dowel with spray paint.
  6. 6

    Apply adhesive to the dowel and attach

    Remove the protective coating from the mirror squares. Apply construction adhesive along the flat side of the dowel and press it into position, setting out the frame, followed by the internal pieces. Remove excess adhesive with a damp cloth, leaving to dry. Secure the mirror with safety anchors appropriate to your wall type.

    Person attaching pieces of dowel on plywood with adhesive to create a mirror frame.
  7. 7

    Keep in mind...

    • Work in a well-ventilated area and wear a mask while cutting timber, sanding, painting or using adhesive.
    • Always cut the long sides first. (If you make a mistake, they can be repurposed as shorter pieces.)
    • Before drilling into any wall to attach a safety anchor, use a stud finder to check for wiring or pipework, and turn off the power before working. If unsure, call a professional.
  8. 8

    Does your bathroom need a new vanity mirror?

    Install a new one yourself with this easy-to-follow step-by-step guide.

     

    Photo Credit: Michelle Holden

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Health & Safety

Asbestos, lead-based paints and copper chromium arsenic (CCA) treated timber are health hazards you need to look out for when renovating older homes. These substances can easily be disturbed when renovating and exposure to them can cause a range of life-threatening diseases and conditions including cancer. For information on the dangers of asbestos, lead-based paint and CCA treated timber and tips for dealing with these materials contact your local council's Environmental Health Officer or visit our Health & Safety page.

When following our advice in our D.I.Y. videos, make sure you use all equipment, including PPE, safely by following the manufacturer’s instructions. Check that the equipment is suitable for the task and that PPE fits properly. If you are unsure, hire an expert to do the job or talk to a Bunnings Team Member.