Antique Mirror Ideas for the In Home with a Limited Budget

Do you have a small mirror in your home that you just aren’t happy with anymore? Instead of tossing it and buying another, maybe the answer is an antique mirror! Look through some of our ideas for the in-home with a limited budget to find a classic piece to grace your space.

Antique Wood Mirrors

The most popular type of antique mirror is the wood mirror. There are many different types of antique mirrors to choose from, each with its own unique features and history. Here are some examples of antique wood mirrors that are sure to inspire you:

1. Antique Regency Wood Mirror with Gold Accents: This rustic-style mirror features ornate gold accents, giving it a high-end look at an affordable price.

2. Antique Country House Mirror: This antique country house mirror is all wood with a mossy patina giving it a country cottage feeling. It would be perfect for adding character and warmth to any room in your home.

3. Antique Spiegel Frame Mirror: This vintage-style Spiegel frame mirror is made out of wooden frames and glass, giving it a unique appearance and feel. The antique finish gives the mirror an old-world charm that is sure to turn heads when you hang it in your home.

4. Dorian Gray Wood Mirror: This beautiful antique dorian gray wood mirror has a distressed, vintage look that will add curb appeal to any room in your home. The deep color can easily complement any style of décor, making this a must-have for any home decor enthusiast..

First Impression Tips and Tricks

When you have limited funds to work with, finding the right antique mirror can be a challenge. But don’t let that stop you from creating an elegant and stylish home décor scheme! Here are some tips for finding the perfect antique mirror for your space:

-Start by looking at antiques stores in your area. Not only will this give you a number of options to choose from, but it will also allow you to get a feel for what is popular and in demand.

-Check online auction sites and classified ads as well. You might be surprised by how much affordable inventory is out there.

-Prune your search list down to three or four candidates. Once you have narrowed it down, take the time to examine each one closely. Pay careful attention to size, shape, decorations and colors.

-Once you have made your decision, ask around for opinions on whether or not the mirror is authentic or has been restored. Many homeowners choose not to restore their mirrors because it can be expensive and time-consuming; however, some people believe that a restored mirror looks more finished and enhances the overall look of the room instead of detracting from it.

Type of Antique Mirrors

When shopping for antique large mirrors, you want to be sure to find something that is both in good condition and fits your style. There are a few types of antique mirrors available, so it is important to know a bit about each one before making your purchase.

Mural Mirrors: These large mirrors typically have ornate frames and are popular in traditional style homes. They can cost a bit more than other types of antique mirrors, but they often come with an extra set of glass so you can use them as regular mirrors as well.

Scroll Mirrors: This type of antique mirror has a frame made out of wire or metal rods that are suspended on strings along the top and bottom of the mirror. The effect is beautiful and scrolly, giving the appearance that the mirror contains moving images. Some scroll mirrors are actually old pocket watches with the gears cut out, revealing their mirrored interior.

Glass Plates: Sometimes called drop platters because of their resemblance to decorative dishes, these antique mirrors typically have simple frames made from glass plates connected by hinges. The glass plates can be in any shape or size, giving the mirror a range of looks that you couldn’t get with a more specialized type of mirror like a mural or scroll mirror.

Most Popular Styles of Antique Mirrors

1. Victorian Style Antique Mirrors:Victorian style antique mirrors are typically large and ornate with intricate carved details. These mirrors often feature delicate floral ornaments, stylized foliage, and elaborate scrollwork.

2. Belle Epoque Style Antique Mirrors:Belle Epoque style antique mirrors are characterized by their vintage style luster and curved molding. These mirrors typically feature Art Nouveau embellishments like twisted filigree and rampant dragons, as well as restrained color palettes (often consisting of just two shades). 

3. Edwardian Style Antique Mirrors:Edwardian style antique mirrors are sleek and modern-looking with a sleek silver frame and simple geometric detail. These mirrors usually have a thin beveled edge, making them perfect for smaller spaces.

4. Postmodernist Style Antique Mirrors:Postmodernist style antique mirrors borrow from both traditional and modern design cues to create an eclectic and effortlessly stylish option. These mirrors typically feature asymmetrical or brightly colored frames, oversized visual panels, and striking marble or wood construction.

How to Make Your Own Mirror Frame

Do you have an old mirror that needs a frame? You can easily make your own frame using some wood and a few supplies. Here are the steps:

1. Remove the glass from the mirror with a screwdriver. This is easiest if the mirror is mounted to a wall.

2. Mark the positions of the holes for the screws on either side of the mirror’s edge. This will ensure that your new frame is perfectly aligned when it’s assembled.

3. Drill pilot holes into each marked hole and screw in the screws, being careful not to crack or damage the surface of the glass.

4. Attach one side of your painted or finished wooden frame to one side of the mirror, making sure that it’s perfectly level and flush with the edge of the glass.

5. Repeat these steps on the other side of the mirror, so that you have a completed framed mirror!

Practical Uses for Your Wooden Mirror

There are many practical uses for a wooden mirror.  One example is using it as a wall decoration. You can hang it on the wall or place it on a stand. Another use is to use it as a computer screen-saver. You can place your wooden mirror in front of your computer to create an atmosphere that will make you feel relaxed.