The Dollar Tree Item That Gives An Outdated Mirror A More Modern Look

Mirrors can be a great way to not only add interest to blank walls, but also to lighten and brighten spaces with their reflective properties. This is especially true of older pieces that can add a whole lot of charm to your spaces for not a lot of money if you want to decorate with mirrors. There are a number of cool DIY approaches to add some detail and interest to these older basic wood mirror frames before you use them in your home. One of the best additions to a mirror frame can be found at your local Dollar Tree. Large wooden beads, which are sold in strings for around a dollar each, can be used to embellish your existing frame. With a little paint or a new wood finish, you can transform even the most boring and basic mirror into a chic work of art.

This is a great treatment to upcycle old mirrors around the house, update a thrifted find, or elevate a Facebook Marketplace score. While new mirrors, especially large ones, can be pricey from places like HomeGoods and West Elm, this ingenious solution can take free or cheap mirror frames and give them both character and unique DIY style. This can be used on any mirror size and with a variety of painted and gel stained finishes to match your décor aesthetics. You can also vary the size and shape of your wooden beads for this project and leave them strung or unstrung as you fix them in place.

Unstring the beads and use wood glue to add them to the frame. Look for recessed spots and divots in the existing frame to help guide you where to place your beads. For unframed mirrors or those that lack a thick frame around them, you can always build them out with some molding trim to have more space to work with. You could also add beads directly to the glass or place your beads along the outside rim. Continue around the perimeter of the frame until it is covered in beads. When dry, finish your frame by adding a few layers of gel stain like Retique It to create a weathered look as this DIYer does, or use a solid color over the beads and frame to unite them. You can also paint your frame first to make it a little easier to get a fuller coverage when you add the beads on top. 

Go with a similar rustic finish for a mirror perfect for a modern farmhouse or coastal vibe that feels very contemporary, or finish it darker for a more traditional look. Paint it a solid lacquered shiny color to make it feel more contemporary, or use gold or silver spray paint to get a unique antique gilt mirror effect. You can even add a little gold foiling in spots for extra luxuriousness and the look of a much more expensive mirror for your living room.