How to Frame a Mirror
![How to Frame a Plate-Glass Wall Mirror Bathroom with Large Mirror and Chalkboard](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2010/11/8/1/original-Janell-Beals_bathroom-mirror-frame-beauty_s3x4.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.822.85.suffix/1400956381178.jpeg)
![How to Frame a Mirror](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/video/0/01/011/0114/0114238.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.1280.720.85.suffix/1664980668069.jpeg)
Materials Needed:
- 70-1/2" length 4 1/2" wide primed MDF baseboard
- 70-1/2" length 3 1/2" wide primed MDF baseboard trimmed down to 1"
- 70-1/2" length 3 1/2" wide primed MDF baseboard trimmed down to 1 1/2–"
- 38-1/2" lengths 3 1/2" wide primed MDF baseboard (2)
- 63-1/2" length 3-1/2" wide primed MDF baseboard
- tape measure
- paneling adhesive
- extra-strength wood glue
- caulk
- level
- latex paint
- latex paint extender
- extra-fine sanding pad
- paint brush
- painter's tape
- tack cloth
- drop cloth
Step 1: Measure Mirror and Select Frame Style
Determine trim style and positioning of trim around mirror to obtain measurements specific to mirror being framed. Use measurements to cut lengths of primed MDF baseboard. Tip: Have materials cut at a home improvement store and consider using style of door casings in home as inspiration for the look of the mirror frame.
![Step 1: Measure Mirror and Select Frame Style Measuring Tape Against Bathroom Mirror](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2010/11/10/0/original_Janell-Beals-bathroom-mirror-frame-measure-mirror_s4x3.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.462.85.suffix/1400955639672.jpeg)
Step 2: Prepare Work Area
Gather required materials. Lay out lengths of trim on flat working surface.
![Step 2: Gather Trim Pieces Pieces of White MDF Board Laying on Work Surface](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2010/11/10/0/original_Janell-Beals-bathroom-mirror-frame-prepare-work-area_s4x3.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.462.85.suffix/1400956955801.jpeg)
Step 3: Paint Back Sides
Add latex paint extender to paint, lengthening drying time and minimizing brush strokes. Paint back side of trim along edges that will extend over edges of mirror. Let dry two hours.
Tip: The back edges will be reflected in mirror.
![Step 3: Paint Backside of Trim Paintbrush Applies Paint to Back of MDF Board](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2010/11/10/0/original_Janell-Beals-bathroom-mirror-frame-paint-back-sides_s4x3.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.462.85.suffix/1400955593687.jpeg)
Step 4: Paint Trim
Paint front sides and edges of trim. Let dry two hours.
![Step 4: Paint Trim Paintbrush Applies Paint to MDF Board](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2010/11/10/0/original_Janell-Beals-bathroom-mirror-frame-paint-trim_s4x3.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.462.85.suffix/1400955184322.jpeg)
Step 5: Sand
Use extra-fine sanding pad to lightly sand surfaces. Wipe clean with tack cloth.
![Step 5: Sand MDF Board Sanding White Trim](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2010/11/10/0/original_Janell-Beals-bathroom-mirror-frames-sand_s4x3.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.462.85.suffix/1400954975188.jpeg)
Step 6: Glue Top Frame Together
Glue three lengths of MDF baseboard forming top frame with extra strength wood glue. Press pieces firmly together. Let dry two hours.
![Step 6: Glue Top Frame Together Three Pieces of White MDF Board Glued Together](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2010/11/10/0/original_Janell-Beals-bathroom-mirror-frame-glue-top-frame-together_s4x3.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.462.85.suffix/1400955723679.jpeg)
Step 7: Caulk Joints
Run a bead of caulk along seam joints. Smooth caulk line and wipe away any excess. Let dry one hour.
![Step 7: Caulk Joints of Frame Caulking Joints of MDF Baseboard](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2010/11/10/0/original_Janell-Beals-bathroom-mirror-frame-caulk-joints_s4x3.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.462.85.suffix/1400955638794.jpeg)
Step 8: Apply Touch -Up Paint
Paint over caulk by lightly brushing layer of paint along joint.
![Step 8: Apply Touch-Up Paint Paintbrush Smooths Paint Along Joint Seam](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2010/11/10/0/original_Janell-Beals-bathroom-mirror-frame-apply-touch-up-paint_s4x3.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.462.85.suffix/1400955560125.jpeg)
Step 9: Apply Second Coat of Paint
Paint a second layer of paint over fronts and sides of trim. Let dry 12 hours before installation.
![Step 9: Apply Second Coat of Paint Whitewashed Pieces of Trim Dry on Crate Paper](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2010/11/10/0/original_Janell-Beals-bathroom-mirror-frame-apply-second-coat-paint_s4x3.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.462.85.suffix/1400955242887.jpeg)
Step 10: Install Top Frame
Apply paneling adhesive to area where top frame piece will be positioned.
![Step 10: Install Top Frame With Adhesive Dots of Glue Above Wall Mirror in Bathroom](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2010/11/10/0/original_Janell-Beals-bathroom-mirror-frame-install-top-frame_s4x3.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.462.85.suffix/1400955641172.jpeg)
Step 11: Position and Tape
Press frame piece onto adhesive, check for proper placement and ensure piece is level. Secure in place using clean-release tape.
![Step 11: Position and Tape White Molding Taped Above Bathroom Mirror](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2010/11/10/0/original_Janell-Beals-bathroom-mirror-frame-position-tape_s4x3.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.462.85.suffix/1400954974669.jpeg)
Step 12: Repeat Steps
Repeat prior steps, installing two side pieces of trim followed by bottom piece.
![Step 12: Repeat Steps to Attach Trim Bathroom Mirror With White Trim on Top With Green Tape](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2010/11/10/0/original_Janell-Beals-bathroom-mirror-vanity-repeat-steps_s4x3.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.462.85.suffix/1400954975274.jpeg)
Step 13: Check Placement and Tape
Check all joints where trim meets to ensure pieces are positioned correctly and square. Make any necessary adjustments before adhesive begins to dry. Secure in place using clean–release tape. Let dry 24 hours.
![Step 13: Check Placement and Tape Bathroom Mirror With Green Tape on White Trim](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2010/11/10/0/original_Janell-Beals-bathroom-mirror-frame-check-placement-tape_s4x3.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.462.85.suffix/1400955463534.jpeg)
Step 14: Caulk Joints
Run a bead of caulk along any gaps at joints. Smooth caulk line and remove any excess. Let dry one hour.
![Step 7: Caulk Joints of Frame Caulking Joints of MDF Baseboard](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2010/11/10/0/original_Janell-Beals-bathroom-mirror-frame-caulk-joints_s4x3.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.462.85.suffix/1400955638794.jpeg)
Step 15: Apply Touch Up Paint
Paint over caulked joints and any areas of frame requiring touch-ups.
![Step 15: Apply Touch Up Paint Paintbrush in Corner of White Trim on Mirror](http://hgtvhome.sndimg.com/content/dam/images/hgtv/fullset/2010/11/10/0/original_Janell-Beals-bathroom-mirror-frame-touch-up-paint_s4x3.jpg.rend.hgtvcom.616.462.85.suffix/1400954974839.jpeg)