DIY Plans to Build a Mirror Frame

The frame only looks complicated… The frame allows for a rectangular mirror instead of an arched mirror!

Materials:

• 1” pocket hole screws
• 1-1/4” pocket hole screws
• Wood glue
• Sandpaper (100, 150, 220 grits)
•  Finishing supplies (primer & paint, or stain, sealer)

Lumber:

• 1 - 1x3 at 8’
• 1 – ½” x 6” craft board (generally sold in 3’ or 4’ lengths)
• 1 – ¼” x 2” craft board

Cut List:

• 2  1x3 at 33” – Frame Sides
• 1 – 1x3 at 27” – Frame Bottom
• 1 – ½” x 6 craft board at 22” – Arch
• 1 – ¼” x 2 craft board at 22-1/2” – Back Strip

Step One

Cut the pieces for the frame. Using a router and a ¼” rabbeting bit, cut a ¼” deep rabbet along one long edge of each piece. Cut a 45° miter in each end of the 27” piece, and one end only of each 33” piece – treating each piece as a left and a right. With the pocket hole jig set for ¾” material, drill pocket holes in each end of the 27” piece miters. Assemble the frame using glue and 1-1/4” pocket hole screws.

Step Two

Cut the piece for the arch. Cut the arch using a jigsaw or a bandsaw. Set the pocket hole jig for ½” material and drill pocket holes in each end. Secure the arched piece to the inside of the frame sides using glue and 1” pocket hole screws. The front face of the arched piece will be flush with the front of the frame.

Step Three

Cut the piece for the back strip. Apply glue to one surface and clamp in place over the back side of the arch resting on the rabbets on the side piece. Let dry.

Finish as desired. Cut a mirror to fit the opening on the back, securing in place with mirror adhesive, a picture framing tab gun, or mirror clips. Glass or Plexiglas can also be used.