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Frame Your Mirror That Has Plastic Clips

Disclosure: This post may contain affiliate links.  Please read our disclosure policy.

Have you ever tried to figure out how to frame your bathroom mirror over plastic clips?

How to Frame Your Bathroom Mirror with Plastic Clips

Do you want to know how to Frame Your Bathroom Mirror Over Plastic Clips?

How to Frame Your Bathroom Mirror with Plastic Clips

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I’ve seen probably a half-dozen tutorials all over blog land showing you how to frame a bathroom mirror featuring amazing transformations simply by adding some molding around the edges.

And everyone says something to the effect of:

“THIS IS THE EASIEST UPDATE EVER! I WISH I WOULD’VE DONE IT A LONG TIME AGO! I’M GOING TO DO ALL MY MIRRORS NOW!”

This project is one that has been on my to do list for a while now. because if it really is that easy, maybe I could do it? Except I had something standing in my way. Two things, actually. Two little, {ugly} plastic clips that were holding my mirror to the wall and holding me back from completing this project.

How to Frame Your Bathroom Mirror with Plastic Clips

I searched high and low on how to frame a bathroom mirror when your mirror has little {ugly} plastic clips and I couldn’t find any solution.

And so my mirrors sat there. No frames, no pizazz, no nothing.

How to Frame Your Bathroom Mirror with Plastic Clips

My house is only 7 years old and not outdated. I like my fixtures, hardware and flooring. I like it all… except I really don’t like my builder-grade mirrors.

So I set off to find a solution to rid those clips and make my mirror pretty.

And guess what? I found one. {Insert happy dance here!}

The best part is, the solution is literally 1 more step than all the tutorials I’ve seen to frame out your mirror, so this project is still super easy. {YAY!}

Here is the secret:

How to Frame Your Bathroom Mirror with Plastic ClipsYep, washers!

Look for the thinnest washer you can find- you might want to buy a few sizes and see which one lays flattest against your mirror. (You can purchase washers individually for 10-20 cents each.)

When you find which one fits best, unscrew the screw holding the plastic clip and then replace it with the washer, using the same screw and hole already in your wall.

Do one at a time, obviously.

How to Frame Your Bathroom Mirror with Plastic ClipsThe washers will hold the mirror to the wall as securely as the plastic clip does, but it lays {almost} flat, so you can glue molding right over the top of it.

HOW EASY IS THAT?!?!?!?

And now you are ready to frame your mirror!

I followed the simple tutorial on framing your mirror from Blue Cricket Design. Her post was the first one I saw featuring this project and I’ve also seen this mirror in real life, so I can attest to how good it looks and rest assured there were no “hidden” ugly spots.

Because I followed Becca’s tutorial step-by-step, I won’t repost the entire thing here. but I do want to tell you a few TIPS I had. Some of you will thank me for sharing these, and others will think I am lame for needing to spell it out. But that is how I am, and I need things spelled out.

TIP: First, when you buy your molding, you might want to pick up one of these:

How to Frame Your Bathroom Mirror with Plastic ClipsA miter box

I had heard of them before, I just didn’t know what they were and how to use it.

A Miter Box is a plastic tool used to cut perfect 45 degree angles- something you need to do for molding projects. I bought mine at Lowes on the same aisle as the molding and it came with its own miter saw. With my new miter box I was able to take my molding home and cut it myself.

How to Frame Your Bathroom Mirror with Plastic ClipsTip: Look at the molding around one of the doorways in your house to get a visual and to be sure you are cutting it right. I almost made some cuts upside down, but luckily I had something to go off of. How to Frame Your Bathroom Mirror with Plastic Clips

Tip: Get a caulking gun to apply your liquid nails. Save yourself the hassle of trying to apply it without a gun (or a 2nd trip to the store!) and make sure you pick one up.

Tip: Also, be generous with the amount of Liquid Nails you use. Put the liquid nails in the center of the molding.  Be sure to avoid the edges so it doesn’t seep onto your mirror when you press it. This scared me a bit, so I went too light on the liquid nails so as not to have a seeping mess. The next day when it was supposed to be dry, my molding was bowed in the corners of my mirror and not stuck to the glass because I didn’t have enough liquid nails holding it down.

Tip: If you find your molding bowed in the morning, don’t get discouraged and walk away. Don’t vow not to ever attempt another home improvement project again. Don’t let this project sit for a week and contemplate hiring someone to fix it for you. Just add some more liquid nails and let it dry again overnight. I may have done the above dramatics and when I realized how easy the fix was, I felt silly.

So there you have it. My pretty mirror.

How to Frame Your Bathroom Mirror with Plastic Clips

How to Frame Your Bathroom Mirror with Plastic ClipsAnd this tutorial wouldn’t be complete without saying,

“THIS IS THE EASIEST UPDATE EVER! I WISH I WOULD’VE DONE IT A LONG TIME AGO! I’M GOING TO DO ALL MY MIRRORS NOW!

And I am serious. I totally am.

 

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February 21, 2017 2:00 pm Stephanie 154 Comments Filed Under: Home + Garden

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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. Jaime says

    February 21, 2012 at 2:31 pm

    Great job Steph!! Check out my bathroom makeover! http://polkadotsonparade.blogspot.com/2012/02/bathroom-reveal-aqua-yellow-wonderland.html

    Reply
    • Brenda says

      August 25, 2013 at 11:39 am

      Thanks so much for sharing this! I didn’t want to pay the extra cost to have builder install the frames and it would prolong our closing date. Didn’t know how to get around the plastic clips!

      Reply
  2. Kelly says

    February 21, 2012 at 3:06 pm

    Hey! I just found your blog and I am so glad I did! I am your newest follower. I have been planning on framing my mirrors for quite a while now, and I love your technique! I might just have to try it. You did a great job!

    Reply
  3. Tanya H. says

    February 21, 2012 at 4:10 pm

    YOU are stinking brilliant! I’ve spent the past three of four years or powder room visits staring at those horrid little clips and wondering how to frame around them. THANK YOU!

    Reply
  4. katie s says

    February 21, 2012 at 4:40 pm

    i’ve thought the exact same thing about those dumb clips! Thank you, thank you, thank you!!!! Now, I just have to do it!!!

    Reply
  5. Latoya @The Scotts Crib says

    February 21, 2012 at 6:41 pm

    I have the same problem and didn’t know what to do about it. Thanks so much for sharing this tip!

    Reply
  6. Shannah @ Just Us Four says

    February 23, 2012 at 6:00 am

    This is fantastic information! We removed all but one of the giant mirrors in our house and I keep looking at that last one (with its plastic clips) wondering what to do. Now I know!

    Reply
  7. Heidi@TheMerryMagpieVintage.com says

    February 23, 2012 at 12:38 pm

    THANK YOU!!! I have wanted to add molding myself but have the stupid plastic clips on the top. I contemplated removing those and using the flush-mount mirror clips, but the washer trick sounds way easier and cheaper! I’m so excited to get started on my own now!

    Reply
  8. lesley says

    February 23, 2012 at 1:06 pm

    I’ve been wanting to just rip my mirrors off but you’ve just made this look so easy i might reconsider! Thanks for showing us it is as easy as it seems. Great post. And thanks for giving credit for the other tutorial you used that was really nice of you. Lesley

    Reply
  9. Malina says

    February 23, 2012 at 7:38 pm

    Thank you, thank you, thank you!!! Searched everywhere to find out how to frame a mirror with clips. I re-modeled my bathroom and took the wall to wall mirror down. I then cut it a am putting it in the master bath as a full length mirror and wanted to frame it. Home Depot said to put a rail on the bottom and those silly troublesome clips on the sides and top. This is all fine until I want to frame it. Love your suggestion it be easier if I could just glue the mirror to the wall and frame it then but he said not too. Not sure why? It wasn’t glued to begin with. So here’s to framing and hanging the mirror that’s been waiting patiently for 4 months. Thank you again and if you know if I can glue the mirror to the wall that would be helpful too. It’s about 6 ft in height and 3 ft wide.

    Reply
  10. Tasha says

    February 26, 2012 at 10:15 pm

    Love it! And I love all the little details and help. I totally liked things spelled out for me too!. I am happy to learn from other people. What is better then that? And why do you think I love blogging (haha). Awesome job. You might even get me to try it!!

    Reply
  11. MeganV says

    February 27, 2012 at 6:19 am

    What a beautiful job you did. I love the tutorial. My sister in law has been thinking about completing this project and I’m definitely sharing this with her. Thanks for sharing. ~ Megan

    Reply
  12. Rose :: FineCraftGuild.com says

    February 27, 2012 at 1:01 pm

    Amazing what a bit of crown molding can do to a bathroom mirror!

    Reply
  13. Just Winging It says

    February 27, 2012 at 5:21 pm

    I am inviting you come and be part of my blog hop:

    Reply
  14. Holly says

    February 27, 2012 at 5:55 pm

    Wow– yes! It has been those silly little clips that have been holding me back. I’ve been wanting to tackle some of our builder-grade mirrors and now you’ve given me the directions and confidence to give it a try! I hope I can post back here in a few weeks with my success. Wish me luck!
    I found your blog through Skip to My Lou, thanks for sharing your ideas!

    Reply
  15. Lisa says

    February 27, 2012 at 7:09 pm

    Great job on your mirror! I have been trying to decide whether to take mine down or frame them out. I have 2 HUGE mirrors that meet each other in the corner in my master bath. I mean reeeaally big. I think I may try framing them out first before taking them down. You made it look NOT so daunting, so what do I have to lose, right? Thanks for inspiring me to go ahead and give it a try.
    Found you on skip to my lou. Hope you can stop by my blog sometime. Maybe check my Master Bath post, and tell me if I am crazy for trying or not! 😉
    Great blog you have here! I’m off to read some more of your posts!
    xo-Lisa @budgetdesigngirl.blogspot.com

    Reply
  16. Lindsey {SimplyStylish} says

    March 3, 2012 at 10:28 pm

    I have been wanting to do this for quite awhile and I LOVE your tutorial!!! The only thing I will have to do different is change the light fixtures to something that has the light bulb going straight out or pointing up otherwise there is not enough room. And thanks for the info on a miter box. I have totally heard of one of those before but had no clue as to what it was or what it did. Now I know and will be going to get one. Thank you! The frame looks fantastic!! Great blog too! 🙂
    xoxo,
    Lindsey

    Reply
  17. Gretchen says

    March 4, 2012 at 7:39 am

    I’ve been trying to figure out how to do this around the plastic clips that we have too. I can’t wait to try this out!

    Reply
  18. KathieR says

    March 4, 2012 at 9:12 am

    YES!! A solution to the plastic clips!! I had seen the moulding done over them, and the huge gaps, and really thought it looked worse than the plain mirror. I know what I am doing next weekend now!! We spent big bucks on the master bath to buy a mirror with moulding….OUCH. Now I can redo the others in the house and not feel the least bit bad about it! Thank you!!!!!!

    Reply
  19. Nicole says

    March 12, 2012 at 9:22 am

    It looks so much better with a frame. Great job!

    Reply
  20. rebecca lopez says

    March 14, 2012 at 10:44 am

    Okay totally weird question for you. Our medicine cabinet is butted up against the mirror and I’ve been trying to come up with a solution to frame the mirror, but it’s in the way. Is yours like that and could you possibly send me a picture of what it looks like if it is. Thanks for your help. 🙂

    Reply
    • Steph from Somewhat Simple says

      March 20, 2012 at 1:48 pm

      Our medicine cabinet is about an inch or two away from the mirror, so it wasnt in the way. How much room do you have when your cabinet door is open? As long as you have an inch of space, it shouldnt be a problem.

      Reply
  21. shannon says

    March 28, 2012 at 11:00 am

    Hello, I am getting ready to do this in my bathroom and I was wondering what size of trim you used or what is best?

    Thank You
    Shannon

    Reply
    • Steph from Somewhat Simple says

      March 28, 2012 at 1:13 pm

      Any size should work since you’ll be putting this directly onto the glass, it just depends on how much glass you want to cover. I personally love the look of a really thick molding, but for this project I just bought some cheap molding- it matched my doorway trim- because I wasnt sure this was going to turn out and I didnt want to spend a lot of money on it ’til I knew what I was doing. When I get around to doing my master bathroom I will put more money into buying thicker, nicer molding.

      Reply
  22. Stephanie says

    April 8, 2012 at 2:19 pm

    I am soooo excited!!!! I too have those gross plastic pieces holding the giant mirrors in my bathrooms, but…….not for long now!!!! Thank you, thank you, thank you!!!!

    Reply
  23. Lorraine says

    May 29, 2012 at 11:11 am

    OK, since you are making this so easy, can you answer ONE stupid question — do you glue to the mirror or the wall? I have asked several men — 2 are professional carpenters — and they said you can’t frame the mirror because of the clips. Leave it to a woman to figure out 🙂 THANKS for the blog!!!!

    Reply
    • Steph from Somewhat Simple says

      May 29, 2012 at 11:22 am

      Ha ha! You glue it right on top of the mirror. You can let the top piece of the frame hang off the mirror just a bit to make sure the washers are covered, but every other side can be glued right on top to the edge of the mirror. Hope that helps!

      Reply
  24. Dana says

    June 19, 2012 at 12:18 pm

    Can the frame be done if the mirror butts up to the walls on both sides? Do I just glue the molding on to the mirror?

    Reply
    • Steph from Somewhat Simple says

      June 19, 2012 at 4:06 pm

      Yep, just glue it right on top of the mirror! Good luck!

      Reply
  25. Lindsey says

    June 19, 2012 at 8:33 pm

    I really want to do this in our guest bath when we redo it soon. But I’m wondering if you glue the molding down directly onto the mirror, how do you finish the sides where it’s exposed? I’m worried it would look weird with the exposed mirror layer and then the layer of molding… does that make sense?

    Reply
    • Steph from Somewhat Simple says

      June 19, 2012 at 9:42 pm

      I never even thought about that! My mirror is thin enough that it really doesn’t look bad at all. Good luck with your guest bathroom!

      Reply
  26. Leah Rockwell says

    July 21, 2012 at 6:39 pm

    So our master bathroom mirror has clips on the top and bottom (it’s elevated about 6 inches from the vanity backsplash). Would washers on the bottom and top hold the mirror up?

    Reply
    • Steph from Somewhat Simple says

      July 22, 2012 at 4:27 pm

      The washers on the top hold my mirror as good as the clips did, so I assume this would be the case for the bottom too. Good luck! 🙂

      Reply
    • Jen says

      October 18, 2012 at 8:16 pm

      Did you end up trying this? I have the plastic clips on the top and the bottom too.

      Reply
  27. Waleska says

    July 26, 2012 at 5:24 am

    Just wanted to say THANK YOU for your very details instructions on how to frame the bathroom mirrors. I’ve seen other tutorials but the “what to do with the brackets” step was never mentioned so that left me wondering what to do with them. Love your decor. Thanks again.

    Reply
    • Steph from Somewhat Simple says

      July 26, 2012 at 7:40 am

      Thank you for your kind comment! I’m glad you stopped by! 🙂

      Reply
  28. Julie says

    August 1, 2012 at 5:09 pm

    Thank you so much for spelling out your tips regarding the caulking gun, and the miter box kit. I have ALWAYS wanted to do this, but kept putting it off. Here’s a tip/suggestion I encountered after doing this project. Be sure to use CLEAR adhesive/glue. My Lowe’s store only sold Liquid Nails Construction Adhesive, but not the “mirror adhesive” as suggested in tutorial. I didn’t think bout the consequences, as I thought, I HAD to stick to buying Liquid Nails brand. With so many brands of adhesive glues out there, I was almost tempted to try or buy another brand….but I stuck with LIQUID NAILS. The Liquid Nails I bought is white in color, and it reflected off the mirror. Bad mistake I made, so even though I painted the backsides of moulding, the white colored adhesive reflected off the mirror. I think I will touchup this part of mirror with a black paint pen to hide the white.

    I’m a newbie to DIY, and have no experience/knowledge regarding the holding power of adhesives/glues and the brands out there. Sometimes we may be limited to whatever brands our stores in our areas sell….Lowe’s sold Loctite, but not mirror adhesive. I’m assuming this Loctite isn’t clear either. There was also GOOP, which which is clear, and I have heard is a very strong adhesive. Have any of you tried different brands of adhesives? I have a 2nd mirror I’ll be doing next. This time, I will make sure I use a CLEAR adhesive. I like flexibility, so I’d appreciate anyone’s suggestions for other brands of clear adhesives.

    Thank you once again for helping me get started. You got my mind brainstorming of other projects that need to be done…….and you have given me the confidence and motivation to do them 🙂 .

    Reply
    • Steph from Somewhat Simple says

      August 6, 2012 at 2:39 pm

      My liquid nails wasn’t clear, but it didn’t show from behind the molding-only the very edge of the backside of the molding was reflected, so that is why I made sure I painted both sides white. Good luck finding a clear adhesive that works for you- I wish I was more help or had some suggestions. 🙂

      Reply
  29. Marie says

    August 15, 2012 at 1:46 pm

    I. LOVE. YOU. Thank you so much for sharng this tip, am SO excited, I have already started the process, I have wanted to do this for years!!! THANK YOU THANK YOU THANK YOU!!!

    Reply
    • Steph from Somewhat Simple says

      November 13, 2012 at 1:16 pm

      How did your mirrors turn out? 🙂

      Reply
  30. Cheryl says

    October 3, 2012 at 9:03 pm

    Thank you so much for this idea! I know I want to frame my mirrors, but couldn’t find the solution to work around the clear mirror “holders”. What a simple fix! It never would’ve dawned on me to do this. 😀
    Your mirrors look so nice finished off with the frame. 🙂

    Reply
    • Steph from Somewhat Simple says

      November 13, 2012 at 1:15 pm

      Thanks Cheryl! Good luck with your mirrors!

      Reply
  31. Tom says

    October 19, 2012 at 8:48 am

    Are you able to provide (or email me) a close up picture of where the frame goes over the washer. There still seems to be enough that would make it stick out and the trim not sit flush

    Thanks!!

    Reply
    • Steph from Somewhat Simple says

      November 13, 2012 at 1:16 pm

      It isn’t completely flush, but it is flat enough to hold just fine and not stick out.

      Reply
  32. bernie perez says

    October 25, 2012 at 10:29 pm

    When you framed in your master bathroom’s mirror, did the stock silver medicine cabinet by the door seem out of place after the molding/frame went up? I have a similar bathroom set up and have been itching to do this makeover for months but every time I visualize it in my head, it makes me not do it.

    Reply
    • Steph from Somewhat Simple says

      November 13, 2012 at 1:15 pm

      Nope, the medicine cabinet looks just fine! 🙂 Do it!!!! You’ll love the results! 🙂

      Reply
  33. Paula says

    November 11, 2012 at 5:39 am

    Hi! I am delighted you wrote about your mirror experience! I have been searching for a way to do mine and your descriptions were so accurate and easy to follow. You answered and solved all my questions! THANKS! 🙂

    Reply
    • Steph from Somewhat Simple says

      November 13, 2012 at 1:14 pm

      Thanks Paula! good luck with your own mirrors!

      Reply
  34. Mei-Ling says

    November 13, 2012 at 1:08 pm

    Did a quick search on “framing bathroom mirrors diy” and found this post… You have no idea how thankful I am to have found it! Thank you! Thank you! Thank you! I will come back to post pictures of my mirrors when we are done! :o)

    Reply
    • Steph from Somewhat Simple says

      November 13, 2012 at 1:13 pm

      I am so glad you found this post! 🙂 Thanks for visiting!

      Reply
  35. Denise Hunt says

    November 14, 2012 at 12:54 pm

    omg! why did i just find this? those stupid, stupid, stupid plastic clips is what has been holding me back for years…thank you, thank you, thank you!!!!

    Reply
    • Steph from Somewhat Simple says

      November 15, 2012 at 9:11 am

      YAY! I am glad you found this tutorial! Those clips held me back for years too! 🙂

      Reply
  36. Gina says

    November 21, 2012 at 10:20 am

    Thank you so much for showing how to update my mirror WITHOUT gluing it to the wall. This is the 1st site that shows how to avoid the glue by using flat washers. THANK YOU!! 🙂

    Reply
  37. Kathy says

    December 26, 2012 at 7:02 pm

    Thanksss so much! Your issues were my exact issues with the plastic clips- I literally thought I’d have to shave out a hole or somethng in the framing…lol. Thanks so very much! Your warning on the caulking gun will be followed too! lol Thanks for the inspiration!

    Reply
    • Steph from Somewhat Simple says

      December 28, 2012 at 9:04 am

      You’re so welcome! Thanks for stopping by!

      Reply
  38. Dori says

    January 7, 2013 at 2:47 pm

    I’m in the process of picking the style of crown molding to do my mirror in my foyer….. Instead of doing the washers, I’m going to cut notches into the wood but seeing as the molding you picked is so thin that isn’t really feasible, kudos for the washer idea. Nice post! 😀

    Reply
    • Steph from Somewhat Simple says

      January 7, 2013 at 3:06 pm

      Thanks Dori. Yes, the molding I got was one of the cheapest moldings available so it is very thin. Best of luck with your project!

      Reply
  39. Diana says

    January 31, 2013 at 12:39 pm

    I have clips at the bottom of my mirror as well ( not the clips you have pictured , just a little metal bracket). They don’t have a screw either and I am not at home right now to see if they are flush to the mirror ( probably not !) I was just going to whittle out a bit of the molding unless you have a better suggestion ??! Thanks !

    Reply
  40. Kendra says

    February 6, 2013 at 8:14 am

    Love all of the info. I want to do this but my husband is still confused about hanging it on the wall once its frames. Is there a way to get it off the wall if you want to or once its framed is it there forever?

    Reply
    • Steph from Somewhat Simple says

      February 6, 2013 at 8:31 am

      This is probably a permanent project. If you didn’t have the molding touching the wall at all, you could take the mirror off the wall with the molding attached and install a whole new mirror, but the molding will be stuck to the mirror for sure.

      Reply
  41. Candi says

    February 6, 2013 at 4:58 pm

    FYI they do make these: which have that slight curve so they will sit flat on your wall & mirror 🙂

    Reply
  42. Tina says

    February 24, 2013 at 1:55 pm

    Thanks so much for the share! I’ve also been wanting to frame our builder grade mirror, but didn’t think it could be done with those putrid plastic placeholders (clips)! Now I just have to contend with what type of moulding I want to use!

    Reply
  43. Heather says

    March 17, 2013 at 9:21 pm

    Thanks so much for this. I too have been wondering what to do about those clips. You’ve solved that problem, and I can’t wait to get started. Unfortunately, I still have 2 more things holding me back that I’m hoping you can shed some light on. First, I’m wondering what happens if water or cleaning spray drips down between the wood and the mirror at the bottom. Does the glue hold the wood tight enough to the mirror to prevent this? I have even considered adding caulking there like the other tutorial you referenced does in the corners, and then painting using painter’s tape. But maybe that’s not necessary. What do you think?
    And secondly, my mirror has a 1″ bevel around the edges. I know I can get trim wide enough to not glue over the bevel and still have enough surface area to glue to the mirror. But my mirror is exposed on the right side and the gap between the wood and the mirror would be very obvious, I think. I’ve thought of guying a little thin strip of wood to glue over the wood, air and mirror on that right side. But that would make the frame a touch wider on the right than on the left, unless I do it for all 4 sides. Maybe if I caulk the small gap that would be created all around on the outside of the front it might look okay. Ugh – now this is getting complicated!! Any other ideas or tips?
    Thanks a lot! (hopefully my questions aren’t too confusing)
    Heather

    Reply
  44. Katie Mulry says

    April 13, 2013 at 8:06 pm

    Wow! We have ugly mirrors and were going to remove them and buy oval mirrors but the mirrors are glued to the wall plus have the plastic clips. Way too pricey because it would have damaged the drywall underneath. Washers are an awesome idea. The angled ones will really be the answer. I have an accent wall and I am going to paint the frame the same color as the accent wall and then clear coat spray the frame to give it a glossy look. Some clear silicone across the bottom edge of the frame and the glass should prevent any water from getting behind the frame. Off to the home improvement store after church in the morning and should have this project done by the end of the day.
    Thanks for the tips 🙂

    Reply
  45. Natasha says

    May 6, 2013 at 11:06 am

    Great idea! Thanks for sharing. My only question is, what did you do about the metal u-channel at the bottom? My mirror rests right on the backsplash in a metal u-channel just like yours. Did you remove it or cover right over? I feel like it might stick out a lot on the bottom. Thanks so much!

    Reply
  46. sea horizon ec says

    June 2, 2013 at 5:26 am

    Everything is very open with a precise explanation of the challenges.
    It was truly informative. Your site is extremely helpful.

    Many thanks for sharing!

    Reply
  47. C Wells says

    July 1, 2013 at 6:19 am

    There are clips that slips flatly and neatly over the mirror, also.

    Reply
  48. C H says

    July 12, 2013 at 11:45 am

    Thank you! We rent, so gluing the mirror to the wall wasn’t something I was willing to do, but that was what every other site suggested. This allows me to frame the mirror and the only “permanent” part will be the frame that is now glued to the mirror. Which I’m willing to gamble with, since it clearly is an improvement.

    Reply
  49. Peggy says

    August 14, 2013 at 3:57 pm

    I was so excited to find this solution to those awful clips!! BUT I tried the washers, and they don’t lie flat when the screw is screwed in tight. My mirror is pretty thick, and it actually seems to be glued to the wall. Does any one know how to tell? Could I just take the clips off?

    Reply
  50. Marlene says

    August 31, 2013 at 8:42 am

    Thanks for posting how to do this! I finally got up enough nerve to try it. I found the molding at Home Depot for 8.50 an 8′ piece, and bought Loctite Clear Powergrab instead of liquid nails. I had the help of a neighbor who is very handy and has a shop. We had to make the corner blocks since no one carries plain 2″ blocks.
    When we went to replace the clips with the washers, I discovered the mirror was indeed glued on across the bottom, and the clips were screwed into the drywall, basically doing nothing! We put them on anyway.
    Here are the pictures, although the “before” isn’t a true before shot. All the fixtures were the bright polished brass before I started (light, medicine cabinet, everything)
    http://s1281.photobucket.com/user/mmansker/library/Bathroom%20Project

    Reply
    • Stephanie says

      September 1, 2013 at 8:08 am

      Your mirror looks great! I love the thick molding- nice job! Thanks for stopping by!

      Reply
  51. Monica says

    September 14, 2013 at 9:15 am

    Thank you for this! Might just do this this weekend!

    Reply
    • Stephanie says

      September 14, 2013 at 9:48 am

      Have fun! 🙂

      Reply
      • Sammie says

        April 1, 2014 at 3:32 pm

        I’ve been wanting to do this for awhile and found some molding with a deep groove but your WASHER IDEA is great! No need for special molding or routering a groove… thank you for sharing! Great little blog you have here.

        Reply
  52. check over here says

    September 25, 2013 at 1:51 pm

    My brother recommended I might like this blog.
    He was totally right. This post truly made my day.
    You cann’t imagine simply how much time I had spent for this info!
    Thanks!

    Reply
    • Stephanie says

      September 26, 2013 at 8:45 am

      I’m so glad this has helped you! 🙂

      Reply
  53. Eileen says

    October 16, 2013 at 2:09 pm

    Wow, thanks for the tip as I am in the middle of the project and already bought the wood for the frame before realizing the clips are too thick! You saved me!!!!

    Eileen

    Reply
    • Stephanie says

      October 17, 2013 at 10:34 am

      That is great Eileen- I am glad this helped! 🙂

      Reply
  54. Virginia Callister says

    November 3, 2013 at 3:16 pm

    Thank you!!! I have those plastic clips too. I tried this project before I read your post in my powder room where it is a tiny mirror. I tried to make notches in the moulding and went all the way through it and they didn’t fit the clips anyways. I almost gave up. I ended up taking the clips out of the wall all together because the mirror is glued to the wall and seems pretty stable. I want to do the bigger bathroom mirrors too but figured I couldn’t count on those heavy things being secure with just glue. VOILA’ my problem is solved. You are so clever! Thanks again.

    Reply
    • Stephanie says

      November 3, 2013 at 3:49 pm

      I’m so glad you found the solution! 🙂 Thanks for stopping by and best of luck on your next bathroom!

      Reply
  55. shelley says

    November 12, 2013 at 12:21 pm

    You’re post and tips were valuable to me!! Thank you for sharing so much information 🙂 You’re the Best!

    Reply
    • Stephanie says

      November 12, 2013 at 8:38 pm

      thanks Shelly, I am glad you found these tips useful! 🙂

      Reply
  56. Colleen says

    November 24, 2013 at 1:01 pm

    How does the moulding sit flush against the mirror when the washer doesn’t sit flush? I’m attempting this now, and I can’t figure out how to make it look flat like in your picture!

    Reply
    • Stephanie says

      November 25, 2013 at 9:32 am

      It probably isn’t completely flush against the mirror, but the washer is so thin that you don’t even notice.

      Reply
  57. April says

    January 3, 2014 at 8:38 am

    Hi there! The original tutorial you used is no longer active 🙁 I want to try this but I am worried I may miss something crucial. Cut it, liquid nail it down, and I am guessing caulk to crevices? Any more to it?

    Reply
    • Stephanie says

      January 3, 2014 at 8:56 am

      What isn’t active? I still see the pictures and directions- are you not seeing it?

      Reply
      • April says

        January 3, 2014 at 8:58 am

        The Blue Cricket link? How odd- when I click it I get a ‘site unavailable’

        ”
        Site Unavailable

        This site is currently unavailable due to maintenance. It should be available again shortly.”

        But it’s said that for a few days now…

        :

        Reply
        • Stephanie says

          January 3, 2014 at 9:13 am

          Oh, I thought you meant the pictures and text on this site wasn’t showing, but you’re right, the Blue Cricket site is unavailable. I know RFE hosting (which is what she uses) is making some changes, so hopefully it is up soon!

  58. Danni Olson says

    January 16, 2014 at 11:46 pm

    Love this hint. I to wanted to frame my mirrors and now I can do it easily. Thank you so much.

    Reply
    • Stephanie says

      January 25, 2014 at 7:53 am

      You’re very welcome!

      Reply
  59. A.R. Cruz says

    January 21, 2014 at 10:09 am

    This idea is great and genius, I have two bathroom large mirrors with these clips and had been searching for an online article to help me find a way to frame these mirrors without removing them from wall with the clips. This idea is great I would’ve never thought of this way to do a project..I plan to do this project on one bathroom and I am excited to do this project and now that I have an idea on how to do it.

    Reply
    • Stephanie says

      January 25, 2014 at 7:54 am

      Good luck!!

      Reply
  60. Casey says

    January 25, 2014 at 12:05 am

    To cover the top of the washer did you just mount the moulding slightly above the top of the mirror edge?

    Reply
    • Stephanie says

      January 25, 2014 at 7:54 am

      Yep!

      Reply
      • Rachael williamson says

        June 7, 2014 at 11:04 am

        Stephanie I see you’ve commented about covering the top part of the washer with the molding but when that’s done is there not a fairly significant space of molding from wall and then top of mirror that will collect dust and whatnot?

        Reply
        • Stephanie says

          June 7, 2014 at 3:39 pm

          Hi Rachael, it actually isn’t too big of a space- I’ve never had issues with it. 🙂

  61. cathy ward says

    January 27, 2014 at 11:14 am

    My mirror has the old metal clips. Has anyone above answered that?

    Reply
    • Stephanie says

      February 25, 2014 at 9:17 am

      I’ve never done it over the metal clips, but if you can replace those with flat washers, it should work just fine.

      Reply
  62. Jillian says

    February 24, 2014 at 4:17 pm

    Thank you for this fabulous tip! I am eager to try this with our builders grade mirrors in our master bathroom! I am curious, how was the molding held up? Any loose sections/recaulking needed since you installed?
    Thank you!

    Reply
    • Stephanie says

      February 25, 2014 at 9:17 am

      No touch up needed thus far! 🙂 It still looks great and is holding up very well!

      Reply
  63. Terri says

    March 10, 2014 at 12:37 pm

    Hi Stephanie,
    I completed this project last weekend and it went great! Looks terrific. One helpful suggestion I have is that we purchased the Composite molding from Lowe’s (Not real wood). It is prestained in a variety of wood tones, or white, comes in a zillion widths and different trims and is very inexpensive. The backs are half stained too, so the reflection is great. The biggest plus is that it is flexible and will contour right around a flat washer or flat metal clip and adhere without any problems. And yes, the secret is to use enough glue- on my first piece, I was too conservative as well, and had to reglue! Liquid nails comes in clear as well!!!

    Thanks!

    Reply
    • Stephanie says

      March 13, 2014 at 4:32 pm

      I am so glad it worked out for you- and thanks for those helpful tips! I appreciate you stopping by!

      Reply
  64. Sammie says

    April 1, 2014 at 3:36 pm

    Has anyone tried using velcro to hold the frame to the mirror? or would theedges look tacky? Just asking because I haven’t started the project yet. Any advise is most welcome… thank you!

    Reply
  65. Angelica says

    April 9, 2014 at 2:42 pm

    I love this tutorial! I saw a million on pinterest and I kept thinking about my darn plastic clips! We rent, so this is an inexpensive fix to the guest bathroom! Thank you, thank you, THANK YOU!!

    Reply
    • Stephanie says

      April 9, 2014 at 4:26 pm

      Yay! I am glad you found this tutorial! Thanks for stopping by and thanks for leaving a comment! 🙂

      Reply
  66. Dusti says

    April 21, 2014 at 8:26 am

    Hi,

    Did you have the ugly mirror medicine cabinet on the wall next to the big mirror? If so, how does the frame affect it opening?

    Reply
    • Stephanie says

      April 23, 2014 at 10:57 am

      I do, and it doesn’t affect it at all! If the molding stood taller on the mirror or if the medicine cabinet butted up against the mirror it would be a problem, but the spacing on my wall, even though it looks close, gave me enough room.

      Reply
  67. Dawn says

    May 14, 2014 at 8:20 am

    Any suggestions for doing this with a mirror that has a plug smack in the middle (bottom) of it? I have tried to come up with a way, but so far I don’t have a clue.

    Reply
    • Stephanie says

      May 14, 2014 at 1:38 pm

      Go with SUPER wide molding to completely cover it- as shown on this tutorial: http://www.sweetpickinsfurniture.com/2010/05/framed-mirror-tutorial.html

      Reply
      • Dawn says

        May 14, 2014 at 1:51 pm

        Thank you!

        Reply
        • Stephanie says

          May 14, 2014 at 2:09 pm

          You’re welcome! 🙂

  68. Dion says

    May 15, 2014 at 11:48 pm

    This looks so promising and helpful for what I want to do in my bathroom. Thank you. I have a question though. The mirror in the picture looks like mine. Two clips at the top, but at the bottom a silver trim that holds the bottom of the mirror. Did you cover that with your framing or set the bottom edge of the framing on above it to where the silver trim still shows?

    Reply
    • Stephanie says

      May 18, 2014 at 9:26 pm

      I put my molding right on top of the silver trim to cover it. Hope that helps!

      Reply
  69. Jamie says

    June 24, 2014 at 9:40 am

    Hello, and forgive me for asking this (somewhat) stupid question, but I would love to do this on a mirror similiar in size to your bathroom mirror, that hangs on the wall in my front room above my loveseat. The molding will still be adhered to the mirror, correct, NOT the wall?

    Reply
    • Stephanie says

      June 24, 2014 at 9:47 am

      This is not a stupid question, Jamie, thanks for asking! Yes, the molding will be adhered to the mirror, NOT the wall! 🙂

      Reply
  70. Laci says

    June 30, 2014 at 2:57 pm

    Interesting Read

    Reply
  71. Seymour says

    July 4, 2014 at 8:14 am

    Everyone loves what you guys tend to be up too. Such clever work and exposure!
    Keep up the very good works guys I’ve included you guys to our
    blogroll.

    Reply
  72. Michaelann Dahlman says

    July 8, 2014 at 11:18 am

    This looks way too hard for me to do, plus this place is a rental. Also, our mirror isn’t mounted on the wall, but on a medicine storage cabinet.

    One thing that struck me though, is how you describe the plastic clips as ugly. I like them, because you can hardly see them. They’re functional but discrete.

    I prefer a bathroom that has a medicine (storage) cabinet behind the mirror, for space reasons. But for simple beauty, I really prefer the clips. Classic elegance.

    Reply
  73. Kelly says

    July 17, 2014 at 9:24 pm

    I just remodeled my bathroom and had to have the large mirror taken down to make room for the new backsplash. the mirror had been calked to the wall. I had the mirror cut down to size and rehung. the installer used 2 of those lovely hooks. I said that I planned on framing the mirror so what should I do? He said to simply take then off in a couple of days-after the new caulk dries. Your mirror was probably hung the same way.

    Reply
  74. Amanda says

    August 29, 2014 at 11:33 am

    Thanks for sharing! I e been thinking of this idea for a while now and it is next on my list 🙂 The thick trim doesn’t need the extra glue because it doesn’t bow as easily (learned about trims once!)

    Reply
    • The Creative Team of Somewhat Simple says

      August 30, 2014 at 7:23 pm

      I’m so glad you like it! Thanks for stopping by 🙂

      Reply
  75. Anna Coss says

    August 30, 2014 at 7:21 pm

    I have the same problem. Question though. What did you about the fact that the bottom of the mirror sits behind a track of metal that would cause your frame to jut out slightly more on the bottom edge? To take the track off you have to lift the mirror off and up. Am I splitting hairs and that piece of metal doesn’t matter so much? TIA!

    Reply
    • Stephanie says

      August 30, 2014 at 7:56 pm

      Just go right over the top of it! It works just fine!

      Reply
  76. Donna Lewis says

    September 6, 2014 at 10:44 am

    That is a seriously awesome tutorial. Thanks!!! I never even considered that option. I hate those ugly, plastic clips, but love the big huge mirror in the bathroom. Question: One person job? or did you need an assistant?
    Thanks for the great post!

    Reply
  77. Jackie johnson says

    September 17, 2014 at 4:29 pm

    I have been looking for a site that told how to deal with the clips.
    So glad I found yours.Thanks so much !

    Reply
  78. Holly says

    October 22, 2014 at 6:00 am

    love this idea. Quick question, how do you get the mirror off in the future if the trim is glued over the washers holding the mirror up.

    Reply
    • Stephanie says

      October 22, 2014 at 10:19 am

      Hi Holly,
      I am not planning to remove my mirror, so I honestly never thought of that! Sorry I am not any help! 🙁 I appreciate you stopping by!

      Reply
  79. Tracy Gremillion says

    September 11, 2016 at 7:35 am

    God bless you for posting this. Seriously – so happy I found it!

    Reply
    • Stephanie says

      September 11, 2016 at 6:43 pm

      SO happy to help! 🙂 Thanks for stopping by Tracy!

      Reply
  80. Chris says

    September 27, 2016 at 4:10 pm

    Thanks for sharing your solution. Your mirror seems to ‘sit’ inside a silver tray at the base, as does mine. Did you just frame on top of the glass, right up to the tray/holder?

    Reply
    • Stephanie says

      September 29, 2016 at 9:29 am

      Yep! Go right over the top! 🙂

      Reply
  81. Jay says

    October 5, 2016 at 3:50 am

    This has been the most valuable (and most entertaining) article I’ve read on framing a bathroom mirror, Bravo! Thanks for sharing these tips!!

    Reply
    • Stephanie says

      October 5, 2016 at 8:19 am

      Thanks for stopping by Jay! Glad you found this helpful!

      Reply
  82. Dee says

    January 13, 2017 at 9:37 am

    Hi,
    Where did you find your frame? I have a very large mirror like yours and am trying to find where I can purchase the framing.

    Thank you!

    Reply
    • Stephanie says

      January 13, 2017 at 5:16 pm

      Hi Dee- I actually made the frame with some molding from Lowes. 🙂 Good luck!

      Reply
  83. Michelle says

    January 24, 2017 at 11:30 am

    Love this! Just one question, what about the metal bracket on the bottom of the mirror, do you just put the mounding right over it? If so, wouldn’t that make the bottom piece stick out farther than the rest?

    Reply
    • Stephanie says

      January 24, 2017 at 9:55 pm

      I just put it right over the metal on the bottom too! Mine didn’t stick out much further at all – it wasn’t even noticeable! 🙂

      Reply
  84. Isabel says

    January 8, 2018 at 12:35 pm

    Awesome! Thanks for the tip. I got my washers today! What did you do about the bottom clips? My mirror has two v-shaped clips at the bottom.

    Reply
    • Stephanie says

      January 8, 2018 at 5:01 pm

      Hmmm…. my mirror didn’t have the clips at the bottom! I’m not sure how to solve that – darn it! I’m so sorry!!!!

      Reply

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STEPHANIE DULGARIAN || FOUNDER/CREATIVE DIRECTOR
Stephanie is a creative entrepreneur and founder of Somewhat Simple. After moving to Phoenix in 2005, she started her blog on a whim to keep in touch with her family in Orange County, California. She now manages a creative team of over a dozen women who share daily content consisting of DIY projects and crafts, family-friendly recipes, travel + lifestyle tips for moms and more! Stephanie’s creative expertise has expanded into ongoing partnerships with major brands like Huggies, Better Homes & Gardens, Disney and Lowes. Somewhat Simple has become a favorite source of creative inspiration for thousands of daily readers. Stephanie still lives in Arizona with her husband and five children. Learn More About Stephanie



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