Revamp that large bathroom mirror

Robert A
by Robert A
I added shelves and some trim to dress up the large bathroom mirror.
*Options I considered for this project:
We considered replacing the mirror altogether, but decided to go the less expensive route first and see how long it would buy us.
*Questions and unexpected events that arose during the project:
I didn't know how well the mirror was attached to the wall. I also didn't know how well my adhesive would adhere to the mirror and trim.
* Cost Comments:
1"x4" MDF (32 ft) - $20
1/2 birch plywd - $15
Trim (40 ft) - $20
Crown (3 ft) - $4.50
Lights - $60
*My motivation to do this project:
The mirror was large and an eye sore. We wanted something a little nicer.
*Project Steps:
The first step was to replace the single light fixture with matching twin ones. I ran the wiring, secured the boxes and mounted the new lights. This was required due to the shelving unit. I then measured out the surface and determined the size of the shelving unit. Then I purchased the materials and started designing as I cut. The shelving unit was assembled and attached first. It was ~2 inches higher than the mirror and secured to a stud to help support the mirror against the wall. The trim and molding was measured, cut and secured using GOOP adhesive and tape to hold in place until it was dry.
Advice:
Don't assume the mirror is attached to the wall well enough to hold the additional weight. Make sure it is supported fully.
Do measure twice and cut once.
Materials:
Wood, MDF, Trim - $0.00
Light fixtures - $0.00
Before project began
Added shelving unit and attached to wall just above mirror to help anchor the weight
Set out the trim and molding
Used GOOP adhesive to position MDF on mirror front. It was held in place by tape until it dried
Finished product without cutting or removing the original mirror.
Frequently asked questions
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3 of 98 questions
  • Dmorningstar Dmorningstar on Feb 20, 2019

    Did anyone find the shelving unit and what kind of wood is used to frame the mirror?

  • Loudee Loudee on Aug 21, 2019

    Where did you purchase the shelving unit? Is it over 42” high?

  • Tracy Tracy on Aug 28, 2020

    I definitely want to try this project, but I am stumped with this one issue. Can you explain how you got the shelf to sit flush against the countertops since there is an obvious curve and not a 90 degree angle?

Comments
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  • Cindy Welch Harden Cindy Welch Harden on Jul 01, 2025

    Beautiful! Thanks for sharing!

  • Tam137015587 Tam137015587 on Nov 05, 2025

    I’ve never liked the look of builder grade solid mirrors. So I did my second bath with a nice boarder matching the cabinets and I loved how easy it was by using a simple miter saw and excellent glass glue. It was easier to caulk around the outside and inside for easy access to keep clean by using caulk in the matching color. Then I felt experienced enough to tackle master and added a simple cabinet down the middle like your photo shows. Again using matching caulk and glass glue. Eight years later it was still perfect and I sold the house within days. So well worth the simple fix to fix the mirrors without ripping out the destroying textured drywall. Also ordered some cabinets for above the toilet room for additional storage. New home builders are not putting in linen closets anymore. Why? I’ve asked them and it’s simply a cost saver. But where are you supposed to put your towels and everything else that you need to get going. Especially when you have kids?

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