Love the look of the Anthropologie Mirror but not the price tag? This DIY Anthropologie Mirror tutorial will show you how to create a stunning antique mirror DIY using affordable materials. Whether you want a mirror makeover DIY, an IKEA mirror hack, or just an elegant vintage-inspired look, this project will give you high-end results on a budget!
Supplies You’ll Need:
✔ Plain Mirror (IKEA, thrifted, or an existing mirror you own) ✔ Oven Cleaner or Muriatic Acid (for distressing the glass) ✔ Spray Bottle with Vinegar & Water Mix ✔ Black and Gold Spray Paint ✔ Rub-n-Buff in Gold Leaf or Antique Gold ✔ Painter’s Tape ✔ Soft Cloth or Paper Towels ✔ Optional: Wooden Appliqués or Mouldings (for extra detailing)
Step 1: Preparing the Mirror
- Clean the Mirror – Wipe your mirror down with a soft cloth and glass cleaner to remove dust and smudges.
- Remove the Frame (if possible) – If your mirror has a removable frame, take it off for easier access. If not, use painter’s tape to cover the edges.
- Work in a Ventilated Space – Since you’ll be using spray paint and cleaning solutions, make sure to work in a well-ventilated area.
Step 2: Antiquing the Mirror Glass: IF NEEDED
This step creates the antiqued mirror DIY effect, giving your mirror an aged, vintage feel. You can skip this step if you prefer a smooth look.
- Lay the Mirror Flat – Protect your workspace with cardboard or plastic.
- Spray Oven Cleaner or Vinegar Mix – Apply oven cleaner or a vinegar & water spray onto the back of the mirror where the reflective coating is.
- Let It Sit – Wait 5-10 minutes for the chemicals to react and start breaking down the reflective backing.
- Wipe Gently – Use a soft cloth or paper towel to dab and remove patches of the reflective coating, leaving an uneven, distressed look.
- Repeat If Needed – For a more intense vintage effect, repeat the process on select areas.
Step 3: Creating the Ornate Frame Look
For that Anthro Mirror look, we’ll use paint and decorative moulding to mimic an expensive, vintage-style frame.
- Paint the Frame – Spray the mirror frame with black spray paint as a base.
- Layer Gold Paint – Once dry, lightly spray gold paint over the black, focusing on the edges for an aged effect.
- Apply Rub-n-Buff – Use Rub-n-Buff in Gold Leaf or Antique Gold to highlight details and give the frame an authentic antique finish.
- Attach Decorative Appliqués (Optional) – If using wooden mouldings or appliqués, glue them onto the frame before painting.
Step 4: Reassemble and Style
- Reattach the Frame – If you removed it earlier, secure it back onto the mirror.
- Buff for a Final Touch – Use a dry cloth to buff the gold finish, adding dimension.
- Style Your DIY Anthropologie Mirror – Lean it against a wall, hang it in a bedroom, or use it as a statement entryway piece!
Additional Tips:
- For a Baroque Look – Add extra gold leafing around the edges.
- For a More Distressed Finish – Use sandpaper to gently rough up the painted frame.
- For an IKEA Mirror Hack – Try this technique on the popular IKEA Hovet or Mongstad mirrors for an upscale transformation!
- For a French-Inspired Look – Add DIY elements like ornate embellishments.
Final Thoughts
This DIY antique mirror project is an affordable way to get the coveted Anthropologie Mirror look without the hefty price tag. Whether you’re antiquing a mirror DIY-style, doing a mirror makeover DIY, or trying a mirror hack on a budget, this tutorial will leave you with a gorgeous, vintage-inspired statement piece!
Are you going to try this DIY antique mirror glass technique? Let me know in the comments! ✨
