A true mirror reflects images exactly as they are, without flipping them backwards or distorting their proportions. To create a true mirror, a regular second surface mirror is used along with a first surface mirror. These two mirrors are arranged perpendicular to each other using a special mount.
How to make a true mirror? For artists, interior designers, or anyone wanting to view a precise representation of themselves or objects, constructing a true mirror can be invaluable. Rather than seeing a flipped version like in traditional mirrors. a true mirror provides an accurate depiction, creating new creative possibilities.
In a true mirror setup, a first surface mirror reflects the image onto the perpendicular second surface mirror. As it bounces off the second mirror onto the viewer’s eye, the left-right reversal caused by the initial reflection is fixed. Careful alignment eliminates distortions.
Choosing the Right Materials
When crafting a mirror at home, the best choice for the reflective surface is float glass. Having been floated on molten tin during production, float glass emerges completely flat and very smooth. These attributes allow it to form crisp, clear reflections.
Wood boards, plastic sheets, or thick cardstock are suitable backing options. The backing needs only to be marginally larger than the glass to provide an area for secure attachment later on. It must also be fairly rigid to firmly support the weight of the glass without warping over long-term display.
Measuring and Cutting the Glass
Start by measuring the glass, making it a little larger on all sides than the backing frame. Use a glass cutter and carefully score along the cutting line with steady pressure. Snap the pieces apart by firmly pressing along the score line.
Take safety precautions such as wearing gloves and protective eyewear when handling glass. Carefully sweep away any shards or slivers near the cut edges before positioning the glass centered on its backing frame. Check that no small glass fragments remain where they could cause accidental cuts or scratches later on.
Preparing the Frame
| Material | Thickness (mm) | Rigidity |
| Wood | 12-16 | Very stiff, unlikely to bend or buckle at all |
| Medium-density fibreboard | 16-19 | Fairly rigid, only minor flexing seen |
| Plastic | 2-5 | Some flexibility, prone to warping over time |
To prepare the frame, smooth all surfaces with fine-grit sandpaper. This provides an optimally flat base to support the mirror securely. Measure and mark placement for any mounting holes, screws or fixtures before drilling.
Ensure all cutouts and edges are deburred and wiped completely clean. This protects both the glass and sealing compounds from accidental nicks or scratches later on.
Applying the Silvering Solution
Most silvering solutions contain silver nitrate to coat the glass backing. Thoroughly mix the solution as directed by the package. Use a small paintbrush or spray bottle to carefully apply an even layer without drips or puddles on the back surface of the glass.
Let the solution fully dry as instructed, typically around 15 minutes. During drying, avoid disturbing the thin metallic film forming on the glass, which creates its mirror properties. Maintain an even coating for best reflectivity.
Sealing the Back of the Mirror
Apply a consistent 10 line bead of waterproof clear sealant such as silicone caulk around the outer edges and attachment points of the backing material. Letting the sealant fully cure is essential, usually requiring 24 hours or longer as directed by the manufacturer’s instructions.
Be sure to inspect that no excess sealant squeezes out from where the glass meets the frame while drying. This can weaken the bond. The seal strengthens the joint between materials and protects against moisture issues over the mirror’s lifespan.
Mounting the Mirror
Center the cut glass pane squarely on top of the prepared backing frame. Secure it firmly in place with clamps or weights until the sealant fully hardens with a strong adhesion. This bond will keep the mirror intact for years.
All mounting screws, hanging fixtures or fittings should now be attached directly into the backing frame itself. Take care that no part of the installation process puts pressure on the newly sealed glass edges.
Finishing Touches
For protective purposes, apply a narrow 10 line bead of clear sealant or silicone caulk around the outer reflecting perimeter of the glass. Let it form an initial skin before moving or hanging the mirror. Gently wipe down the entire mirror surface with a soft, dry cloth to remove any fingerprints, residues or smudges that could detract from reflections.
Inspect under light to ensure optimal clarity. The crafting process is now complete, yielding a high-quality mirror ready for wall mounting or use on a cabinet or dresser. Onlookers will admire the new mirror’s reflectivity and your fine handiwork. You can Draw A Mirror using methods outlined here to craft custom shapes and sizes. Regular dusting will keep it looking its best.
Maintaining clean reflections
A homemade true mirror requires regular cleaning to preserve optimal reflections. Light dusting with a dry microfiber cloth removes accumulated grime and prevents dirt from marring the glass over time. For stubborn fingerprints or residues, use a small amount of glass cleaner or soap and water solution, taking care not to saturate the surface or edges.
Quick and gentle cleaning keeps a mirror looking its best. Regular maintenance protects the reflective qualities and extends the life of a handcrafted true mirror. With basic care, it will retain a bright, clear view of whatever comes before it for years to come.
Dusting regularly with compressed air
To efficiently dust a large true mirror without risking smears, compressed air is quite helpful. Holding the can upright, apply short bursts of air in gentle sweeping motions across the glass surface. This lifts and removes accumulated dust without direct contact. Compressed air dries quickly so no wiping is required, speeding up regular light maintenance between deeper cleanings.
FAQ’s
How to make a realistic mirror?
Carefully cut glass, apply silver backing, securely mount on frame and seal edges for crystal clear reflections.
How do you make a mirror accurate?
Smooth and prepare backing, apply even silver coating, properly seal glass to board for precise reflections.
Why are true mirrors so expensive?
True mirrors are expensive due to the intensive precision craftsmanship required to cut, back, seal and mount glass for flawless reflections.
Conclusion
With patience and care, a high quality mirror can be crafted at home. Selecting the correct materials like float glass and a rigid backing allows for a perfectly flat surface. Taking time to properly measure, cut, apply the silver solution and seal the glass creates a long-lasting reflective piece. Ensuring each step is completed with precision produces a mirror rivaling store-bought in clarity.
The completed mirror brightly shows whatever is before it. Regular cleaning keeps it performing as such for years to come. With a few materials and some DIY skills, an elegant mirror results without the expensive cost of purchasing one ready-made. The final polished product reflects not just images, but the maker’s gratification in their new skill and useful object produced through focused effort.