How To Paint A Mirror Frame In 3 Easy Steps
Want to paint a mirror frame without making a mess? Learn how to spray paint your mirror frame a gorgeous gold using this easy, budget-friendly method—no sanding or clear coat required!
Have an old mirror that just isn’t working with your style anymore? I’ll show you exactly how to paint a mirror frame to give it a gorgeous, updated look in just a few simple steps for around $25.
This easy DIY project tutorial walks you through the exact method I used to turn an outdated carved hot pink mirror into a soft antique gold.
It includes how to avoid getting paint on the mirror glass while painting the frame. It’s one of the EASIEST painting projects that will completely transform the look of your mirror.
What You’ll Need to Paint a Mirror Frame
This method uses spray paint, which is fast, perfect to cover carved details, and dries to a super smooth finish when done right.
Project Supplies
- Krylon Fusion spray paint (2 PK)
- 2 accent gold spray paints (slightly different tones)
- Optional: Comfort Grip spray can attachment
- Antiquing glaze
- Pre-paint cleaner
- Painter’s tape
- Wrapping paper
- Utility knife
- Razor Blade scraper
- Microfiber rags
- Craft paint brush
- Cardboard
Click to Buy Project Supplies: Amazon
Can You Paint Any Mirror Frame?
Yes! This tutorial works on almost any frame material—plastic, metal, or painted wood. Even on glossy or a shiny finish.The key is good prep and the right spray paint.
If you’re working with stained wood, I recommend using a spray-on bonding primer before painting. Stains can bleed through, and this step will seal the surface so your gold finish looks flawless.
What kind of paint do you use on a mirror frame?
Krylon Fusion Spray Paint works beautifully on slick and glossy surfaces like plastic or metal without a separate primer, which is why it’s my go-to for projects like this.
I swear by Krylon Fusion Spray Paint. It has a no-peel guarantee, and I’ve never had a single issue—even on the glossiest surfaces.
Check out a similar picture frame makeover using the same spray paint.
Watch this Tutorial on YouTube
Prepare an Area for Painting Your Mirror
Always work outside in a well ventilated area. Make sure to protect your mirror frame from the elements. Only spray paint on a day where NO RAIN is expected.
Do not to spray paint in direct hot sun. The paint will dry too quickly and may bubble.
Ideally, paint in a garage with the door open or on your driveway in a shade filled area.
- Lay down cardboard under the mirror are painting.
- Account for 2 feet of overspray and cover the ground.
- If possible, prop your mirror up on a box so it’s easier to spray the edges.
Give yourself enough time to apply both the first and second coat within 30 minutes of each other. Recoat and drying time is FAST with spray paint.
Step 1: Prep the Frame and Mirror for Painting
How do you protect a mirror when painting a frame?
This part’s easy—and so important. You’ll want to completely cover the mirror so spray paint doesn’t sneak onto the glass.
- Use painter’s tape right where the mirror meets the frame. I like to run my fingernail along the edge to seal it to the mirror.
- Use a utility knife to trim off the excess, so your lines stay crisp and clean.
Tip: Make sure you aren’t getting tape on the frame. The paint won’t cover the old color if you do!
- After taping, cover the mirror with old wrapping paper.
- Fold the edges under and tape everything down so it doesn’t blow up while you’re painting.
Clean the Frame—It’s the Most Important Step!
If there’s one thing I want you to remember, it’s this: Clean before you paint. Always.
Removing dust, dirt, and grease from the mirror frame will ensure the paint adheres and won’t peel.
- Spray on a prepaint cleaner and wipe the frame down with a clean cloth microfiber rag.
- Let the cleaner dry fully before you begin painting.
You don’t want any residue, because it’ll affect how your paint sticks to the surface.
Step 3: Spray Paint the Mirror Frame Like a Pro
Want to make spraying easier and apply a smoother finish? Try a Comfort Grip attachment. It makes a huge difference and helps prevent finger fatigue—plus, the spray stays super smooth.
- Shake your spray paint can really well.
- Hold it 6 to 8 inches away from the surface and work in long, sweeping motions.
- Make sure to get backside of the frame too!
- Apply two coats, 30 minutes apart.
What if your mirror frame has carved details? Adjust your spray pattern and angle the can slightly to get into every little nook.
Let it dry overnight in a protected space like your garage or an interior room.
Step 3: Create Highlights and Depth to the Finish
Now for the fun part—the magic. This is my special technique.
Grab two different shades of gold spray paint. You’ll use these to build layers of soft shimmer and natural-looking variation.
- Work in a circular motion around the frame.
- Stay 6–8 inches away and lightly mist the surface with each shade.
- These aren’t full coats—just little sprinkles of color to build dimension.
Let that dry for another 30 minutes.
My Secret sauce: antiquing glaze for depth
If you want to avoid that flat “just spray painted” look, this step is your best friend. Here’s how to paint a mirror frame to look antique.
It’s what makes the gold finish look expensive and layered, not one-dimensional.
- Brush on antiquing glaze with a craft brush. Blot excess before applying.
- Make sure to get into any carved detail.
- While it’s still wet, take a damp paper towel or microfiber rag to push the glaze onto the surface—especially into any carvings or grooves.
Tip: Be conservative to start. Add additional layers of antiquing glaze for a darker antique gold finish.
Final Steps: Finishing Touches
Once you are happy with the level of glaze, it’s time to prepare the mirror for use.
You can remove all the protective layers about an hour after the glaze dries.
- Carefully remove the painter’s tape and wrapping paper. Pull at a 45 degree angle.
- If you have any spray that slipped onto the mirror, don’t panic! Use a straight edge or razor to scrape it right off.
Missed a spot or had paint pull off with the tape? Just spray a little paint onto a paper plate, dip in a small craft brush, and dab it back on.
Do you need to clear coat it?
Nope! Not with Krylon Fusion. That’s one reason I love it—it holds up beautifully without needing a top coat.
The glaze dries right over the paint and becomes part of the finish. Only clean the painted frame by dusting.
Revealing the Painted Mirror Frame
Before placing it in your home use a little glass cleaner on the mirror surface to shine it up.
Mine was COVERED in pollen from working outside in the spring LOL. Look how amazing this full length mirror looks now?
You can see the full teen bedroom makeover here. From Pepto-Bismol pink everything to pale blue walls with gold accents!
It’s hard to believe this soft, glamorous mirror was neon pink a day earlier! As I say PAINT IS MAGIC!
A little prep, the right products, and layering those gold tones totally transformed this full length mirror into something special. Now it has a 2nd life and can be repurposed for years to come.
FAQ: Your Top Mirror Painting Questions—Answered
How do you remove old paint from a mirror frame?
If the old paint is flaking, sand it lightly to remove any failing paint. Vacuum up any sanding dust prior to cleaning
How do you paint a mirror frame without getting it on the mirror?
Painter’s tape + wrapping paper is the best method. Take your time sealing the edges with painter’s tape, and trim any overhang with a straight edge for crisp results.
How do you get dried paint off a mirror?
Use a razor blade or utility scraper to gently lift dried paint off the glass. Just go slow and steady to avoid scratches.
How to paint mirror frame antique gold?
Use a base coat of gold spray paint, layer on a couple of lighter or deeper golds in a circular pattern, then top it off with antiquing glaze to get that aged, dimensional look.
Can you use acrylic paint on a mirror frame?
Yes, if you would like a specific paint color. It will take longer and you should use a bonding primer first. For this tutorial, I used spray paint for its speed and smoothness.
Can you repaint a painted mirror frame?
Absolutely! You can spray paint right over the finish if you want a new look. Clean it well, tape off the mirror, and follow this same tutorial.
Final Thoughts
This project cost under $25 and took just a few hours of total work time (plus overnight dry time).
If you’re looking to give an old mirror a makeover, this is such an easy, affordable upgrade—and you don’t even need to be a seasoned DIYer.
Got questions? Leave a comment or tag me on Instagram @porchdaydreamer with your finished mirror makeover. I’d love to see it!
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Until next time…
PORCH DAYDREAMER
Tracey