Transforming an Ugly Mirror with Chalk Paint

Hi there–I’m so glad you dropped by! Today the THRIFTY CHICKS are sharing mirror projects with you as part of our regular monthly challenge. I’ll be transforming an ugly mirror I selected from my stash of projects waiting for makeovers. I’ve written in the past about how easy it is to transform dark wood furniture and accessories dating to the 1980’s. I think you’ll agree that today’s piece was begging for a do-over!

If you’re curious about past Thrifty Chick challenges, you can check out my junk garden angel, farmhouse wreath, and homemade heating pads.

When I discovered this poor 80’s era mirror/print at a recent garage sale for a dollar, I saw its potential. But I find it hard to imagine how a faux cross stitch like this could have ever been popular, or that someone actually thought the gold medallions on each corner improved its look. [Yes, that’s me you see in the reflection with my favorite, oversized sweatshirt, lol.]

First, I removed the print and the glass from the top portion, and then I taped off the mirror below.

I used a new favorite color of mine, “Castle” by Folk Art. Several bottles were gifted to me at the Haven (blogging) conference I attended in July.

On the left is a shot just after the chalk paint dried; the center, after some light distressing with sand paper; and the last, after a coat of paste wax, followed by buffing. I only gave the frame one coat of chalk paint to allow some of the dark brown stain to show through, adding to the faux antique look. The sanding just increases that affect. The wax deepens the dark stain peeking through and gives the whole project a satiny finish after buffing.

I had this beautiful botanical print of water lilies in my stash and thought the colors just perfect for my frame.

It’s really such an easy and enjoyable process, particularly when dealing with a small piece, like this one. [NOTE: I realized too late how strange the grass looks reflected in the mirror. I shot these pics outside because I love the barn board look of my neighbor’s fence, not realizing the effect the grass would have. The green is kind of garish with my pretty botanical 🙁 ] Happy DIYing, friends!

And now for the rest of the THRIFTY CHICKS projects–
I know you won’t be disappointed!

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