This is the first mirror I've added trim around, and was a bit (very) nervous about how it would all turn out. The hardest part was making sure I had accurate measurements, before heading off to Home Depot to buy strips of primed MDF baseboard to be cut down to size. (Tip: double check the measurements of the cut pieces before leaving the store...just in case!)
Once home I laid out the cut lengths on the kitchen island. I was going to work on this project after the kids went to bed and had no desire to be stuck in the garage into the late night hours!
Earlier, on a trip to my local Sherwin Williams store, I got these recommendations to help the project go smoothly. X-I-M, a paint extender to help minimize brush strokes while painting, and their new Handy Paint Pail. I was skeptical about the pail, but the salesman talked me into giving it a try. It has a handle, removable liner and a magnetic brush holder providing a handy place to set the brush while working. I have to say, it really was a help and certainly tops the random plastic containers I've used in the past. (And no, I'm not getting paid to write any of this!)
With all my materials on hand, the painting began. As opposed to the chalkboard frames, which I painted after they were built, here I decided to paint the pieces first. I thought this approach would be easier than trying to paint the frame once it was in place around the mirror.
First the back sides of the baseboards were painted. A thin sliver of the back will be reflected in the mirror, so they definitely needed to be painted.
After the paint dried the strips were turned over and the fronts painted. The paint extender was very helpful in minimizing the appearance of brush strokes.
After the paint dried an extra fine sanding pad was used to sand away a few paint drips and areas that were a little rough.
The next step was to glue the three pieces, which form the top of the frame, together with extra strength wood glue.
Later in the day, after the glue dried, a bead of caulk was run down the two joints...
and smoothed out....then more drying time. (Lots of periods of drying time in this project!)
An hour later a quick coat of paint was brushed over the caulk.
And while I was at it, a second coat of paint was applied to all the pieces.
After more drying time, the frame was then installed around the mirror using Liquid Nails-Paneling. This is a wood molding adhesive that claims to create a strong instant hold. Trusting this information several dollops were applied down the length of the wall above the mirror.
The top of the frame was positioned in place over the adhesive. After checking to make sure the ends were flush with the mirror on each side, it was taped into place. I admit I did stand there holding and pushing it into place for a few minutes before stepping away. I had visions of it crashing down, damaging walls on its way down to the vanity to crack a sink or two. Luckily that didn't happen as the product lived up to its promise.
Next the same steps were taken to attach the side pieces and finally the bottom strip.
DIY Challenge: hold and apply adhesive with a caulk gun using your right hand while taking a clear picture with your left, and you must be right handed.
The last steps were to caulk a couple joints...
and touch up the areas with paint.
You've basically seen the finished result, but I'll post a few shots tomorrow with all the pretty and colorful accessories in place. I am seriously excited about how well this turned out and realizing with this and the chalkboard project "under my belt" I can move on to some other fun projects using similar products...like crown molding? The rooms of my house are going through my head as I write, which room do I start with?!
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