Step by Step Tutorial on How to Create Your Own Gilded French Mirror.

by Victoria Kirton

3 Materials

I love mirrors. I love how they open up the space and bring so much light and glam into any room. I absolutely adore Gilded French Mirrors but why must they be so expensive?

step by step tutorial on how to create your own gilded french mirror, how to, painted furniture, wall decor

Would you believe me if I told you this gilded beauty started out like this?

I found this mirror from an antique shop and knew it would make a good frame for this project. With a little imagination, appliques, and paint, you too can create your own gilded French mirror.

First you will need appliques. I personally love Efex appliques. You can cut them, stretch them, and change them into any shape you want.

Here I am playing around with the design of the mirror. Once you know what you want, use contact cement to adhere appliques to the frame.

Next, I paint over the whole frame and use gilding wax.

Once the gilding wax is dry, use dark wax over the frame to bring out the details and add more depth to the piece.

And Viola, you have your very own gilded French mirror.

For more pictures and detailed instructions, please visit my blog.

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Frequently asked questions

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3 of 4 questions

Denise Cox on Jun 09, 2018

Lovely! Will the clay harden over time so that it will not lose it's shape? Also,did you apply a protective sealant? I would think the clay might attract dust ( I haven't worked with clay before).
Thank - you.. 😊

2
Rachel's Trash~2~Treasures on Jun 09, 2018

Id like to know more about the appliques you used. Did you make them from a mold? The link is for wooden ones

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Atty_angol on Jun 27, 2018

Thanks for this idea . My question is how do I clear the glass of the mirror ? is its all fogged nothing has worked.

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