Freshen Up Vintage Mirrors

What better way to be eco-friendly than to take an old frame or mirror and give it some new life? I got to thinking about this idea after seeing some of John Murphy's amazing photographs in his custom, ornate and colorful frames.

I thought this would be a super fun project, so I contacted Kate Macey, or Covent Garden Vintage on Etsy. She specializes in scouring garage sales and thrift shops and finding old metal, wood and plastic frames and mirrors and painting them so that they look practically new. I asked Kate about her frame-painting process.

Here's how to give your mirrors and/or frames a brand new look.

Find a frame or mirror with great detail or shape that you really love. Once you've settled on a piece, it's time to paint. The process is very simple and should take about an afternoon, depending on your paint's recommended drying time.

Make sure the frame is clean and dust free. If your frame has a removable mirror, it is best to take the mirror out before painting. If not, use blue painter's tape and paper or a plastic trash bag to protect the mirror's surface.

Be sure to paint your frame outside or in a well-ventilated area. Prime the frame with a latex-based spray paint primer, spraying in long light strokes to avoid runs.

There are two ways to paint your frame. If you can find a spray color you like, it is easiest to spray. Again, light coats are best. If the frame is elaborate make sure you spray from all angles to get all surfaces. If you can't find a spray color you like you can use regular latex paint. Simply paint the frame with a bristle or foam brush.



Expert tip: "If you are sure the frame is plastic, there is a product made by Krylon called Fusion that will adhere to the plastic without priming so you could skip the priming step. However, priming will increase the likelihood for better results," says Kate.

Spray on a clear coat sealer. This will protect the frame and help create a smooth surface, eliminating brush marks if you painted on the color by hand. Let it dry for the recommended drying time, and you're ready to hang!

Get the look: Try painting multiple pieces all one color and hang them together in a large grouping. Check out Kim's mirror collection for inspiration.