Hey everyone! I’m Olivia from DIY Mother. I’m super excited that Selene is letting me share one of my favorite projects to date: a diy gold-tiled mirror.
This project is based with using free or cheap materials I have laying around the house.
But, at the end, I have included a short and more advanced tutorial, using materials and doing more planning.
A little back story before we get started: I had an old mirror that I never used because it had some scratches on it when it arrived. I stored it in the garage because I knew I could probably give it a makeover when I had more time. Well, last weekend I had an entire day to myself, so I
immersed myself in DIY projects.
When I originally set out to do this project, I wanted to make a mirror like this from Z Gallerie. So I picked out these mirror-like mosaic tile from the hardware store. Well, when I took the tiles out of the packaging, there were a few scratches. And they weren't as reflective as I thought they'd be.
So I decided instead of taking them back, I could paint them all gold because I, like Selene, firmly believe that everything is more glam with gold! I love the way it turned out; I’m currently in the process of changing my living room design, so it added a nice touch.
Materials Needed
To create a DIY mosaic tile bathroom mirror, you will need the following materials:
- Mirror - Buy a plain mirror from a hardware store or online. Alternatively, you can use and recycle an old mirror you have laying around that you no longer use.
- Tiles - I prefer mosaic tiles, which you can buy online or from a craft store. Choose tiles that are suitable for use in a bathroom environment and are of a size that fits your design. (or you can use wood cuts, if you want to save money)
- Grout - (If using Tiles) Grout is used to fill in the gaps between the tiles. Remember to Choose a grout that matches the color of your tiles.
- All-Purpose Adhesive or Tile adhesive - If you use tiles, you will need a tile adhesive to stick the tiles to the mirror. Alternatively, you can use an all-purpose adhesive if you want. You can buy adhesive from a hardware store or online.
- (Optional) Tile Cutter - If you don't find perfect size tiles, you will need to cut them to fit the design. A tile cutter or nippers can be used to do this
- (Optional) Sealant - After the grout has dried, you can apply a sealant to protect the tiles and make them water-resistant
- (Optional) Spray paint
- (Optional) Protective gear - It is important to wear gloves and eye protection
- (Optional) Measuring tape - You will need a measuring tape for measuring the dimensions of the mirror and plan your design
How to Make Mosaic Tile Bathroom Mirror at Home
Here is a step-by-step tutorial on how to create a mosaic tile bathroom mirror:
Step 1: Plan your design
Measure your mirror dimensions and plan out your design on paper.
If you want, you can use a ruler and pencil to create a basic sketch of your design to better determine the placement of each tile.
I suggest going for a design that complements the style of your bathroom and your overall personal taste.
Step 2: Prepare Your Mirror
Start by cleaning the mirror with a mild soap and water to remove any dirt and grime. Allow the mirror to dry completely before continuing with the next step.
Step 3: Prepare Your Tiles
If you are recycling the tiles, like I do, remove them from the mesh/fiberglass backing.
Use gloves for this, people! It should be able to just pull off, but if it doesn’t, cut it and then pull. When you’ve removed all of the tile, set them out as close to one another as possible and spray paint them.
If you have bought tiles, you need to prepare them, cut them or spray paint them if you want.
Use a tile cutter or nippers to cut the tiles to the desired shape and size. Wear gloves and eye protection to protect yourself from any sharp edges. Arrange the tiles on your design sketch to ensure that they fit properly.
Don’t worry about doing a perfect job, you’re going to re-spray paint everything when you’re finished.
Tip: When you’re laying out your pattern, make sure that all of the pieces are staggered, and use different lengths. You don’t want each tile ending at the same point, if that makes sense.
Step 4: Apply the adhesive & Install the Tiles
Apply a layer of tile adhesive to a small section of the mirror using a trowel or spatula. Use the notched side of the trowel to create ridges in the adhesive, which will help the tiles to adhere better.
I used an adhesive called Strong Stik; it's a little under $4 a bottle, and you don't have to use a caulk gun. It's heavy duty, and you can move the tiles around for up to 10 minute after you apply it.
Carefully place the tiles on the adhesive, following your design sketch. Press each tile firmly into the adhesive, making sure that it is level with the adjacent tiles. Use spacers to ensure even spacing between the tiles.
Let the adhesive cure for 24 hours before you move it!
Step 5: Grout the Tiles (Optional)
Once the adhesive has dried, mix the grout according to the manufacturer's instructions. Use a rubber float to apply the grout to the gaps between the tiles. Hold the float at a 45-degree angle and spread the grout over the tiles, making sure that the gaps are completely filled.
This step only applies if you use store-bought tiles and they don't perfectly fit with each other.
Step 6: Re-Spray if Needed (Optional)
Cover the mirror part, and re-spray paint in case you missed anything. I had to re-spray paint because I filled some holes with the putty.
Step 7: Clean the Tiles
Use a damp sponge to clean off any excess grout or debris from the tiles. Rinse the sponge frequently and change the water as needed to prevent grout from smearing over the tiles.
Step 8: Seal the Tiles for More Resistance
If you are planning to use this mirror in bathroom or any other room which has moisture, I highly recommend to seal the tiles and the rounds to protect it.
If you used grout, wait until it has dried, and then apply a sealant to the tiles to protect them from moisture and water damage.
Use a brush to apply the sealant evenly over the tiles and allow it to dry completely before using the mirror.
Overall, creating a mosaic tile bathroom mirror is a fun DIY project that requires a bit of patience and creativity. With the right materials and tools, you can create a beautiful and unique mirror that adds a touch of personality to your bathroom.
I’m in the process of re-designing my living room from boring, grey, to more of my natural eclectic style. So, don’t mind the wall swatches.
What do you think? Do you have any memorable DIY decor projects that you're proud of? I'd love to hear about them!
