Building a wooden standing mirror with a storage compartment is a practical and stylish project that can add both functionality and beauty to your home. In this guide, you will learn how to construct a wooden mirror frame that features a hidden storage compartment at the base, providing space to store small items such as accessories, jewelry, or beauty products. The following steps will take you through the entire process, from gathering materials to assembling the mirror and storage compartment.
Materials Needed
- Wooden planks or boards (preferably hardwood like oak, pine, or maple)
- Mirror (size will depend on the design, commonly 3/16″ thickness)
- Wood glue
- Wood screws
- Drawer slides (for the storage compartment)
- Hinges (for the storage compartment lid)
- Sandpaper (medium and fine grit)
- Wood finish or paint (optional, depending on the desired look)
- Measuring tape
- Miter saw (or hand saw)
- Drill and drill bits
- Screwdriver
- Clamps (optional, for holding pieces together while glue dries)
Step 1: Plan and Measure the Design
Start by designing the mirror frame and storage compartment. Consider the size of the mirror and how much storage you need at the base. The dimensions for the storage compartment can be adjusted depending on your needs, but it should be wide enough to store items like cosmetics, keys, or jewelry.
- The mirror frame should be proportional to the size of the mirror.
- The storage compartment can be a simple rectangular box with a lid.
- The height of the mirror should be comfortable for use, typically between 5 to 6 feet tall, depending on your preference.
Use measuring tape to mark and cut the wood pieces accurately.
Step 2: Cut the Wood Pieces
Using a miter saw or hand saw, cut the wooden planks into the necessary pieces for the frame and storage compartment:
- For the frame, you’ll need four pieces:
- Two vertical side pieces (height of the mirror)
- Two horizontal top and bottom pieces (width of the mirror)
- For the storage compartment, cut the following:
- Two side pieces (same height as the vertical pieces of the frame)
- Two front and back pieces (same length as the top and bottom of the mirror frame)
- A bottom piece (matching the width of the compartment)
- A lid piece (matching the top dimensions of the compartment)
Step 3: Assemble the Frame
Once all the pieces are cut, it’s time to assemble the mirror frame. Begin by attaching the vertical side pieces to the top and bottom horizontal pieces. Use wood glue to secure the joints and then reinforce with wood screws for added strength.
- Apply glue to the edges of the pieces, align them carefully, and clamp them in place while the glue dries.
- Drill pilot holes for the screws and then screw the frame together. Make sure the frame is square by checking the angles with a carpenter’s square before tightening the screws.
Step 4: Attach the Mirror to the Frame
Now that the frame is assembled, it’s time to attach the mirror. Lay the frame face down on a soft surface to avoid damaging the wood or mirror. Use a mirror adhesive or construction adhesive to attach the back of the mirror to the inside of the frame.
- Apply a generous amount of adhesive to the frame’s interior where the mirror will sit.
- Press the mirror gently into place and allow the adhesive to set according to the manufacturer’s instructions.
Step 5: Build the Storage Compartment
Next, assemble the storage compartment at the base of the frame. Begin by attaching the side pieces to the front and back pieces of the compartment using wood glue and screws. Then, attach the bottom piece to the sides.
- For the lid, use hinges to attach it to the back of the storage compartment. The lid should open easily to access the storage area.
- You can install drawer slides inside the compartment if you want a sliding drawer for even more storage options.
Step 6: Sand and Finish the Mirror
After the frame and compartment are assembled, use sandpaper to smooth out the edges and surfaces. Start with medium-grit sandpaper to remove any rough spots, then finish with fine-grit sandpaper for a smooth finish. Sand the inside edges of the storage compartment as well.
- Wipe down the wood with a clean, damp cloth to remove dust after sanding.
- If desired, you can paint or stain the frame to match your home décor. Apply a wood finish for protection and to enhance the natural beauty of the wood.
Step 7: Attach the Storage Compartment to the Frame
Once the frame, mirror, and storage compartment are ready, attach the storage compartment to the base of the frame. If necessary, use screws or wood glue to secure it in place. Ensure the storage compartment is aligned properly with the frame and the lid can open and close freely.
Step 8: Final Touches
Finally, inspect the standing mirror to make sure everything is secure and functioning properly. If the mirror feels unstable, consider adding additional support brackets or corner braces at the back for extra stability. Check the hinges and drawer slides to ensure smooth movement.
Step 9: Place and Use the Mirror
Once the standing mirror with the storage compartment is fully assembled, you can place it in your desired location. The mirror should stand upright and provide a full-length view, while the storage compartment offers a convenient space for small items.
Tips for Success:
- Ensure all the pieces are cut accurately to avoid misalignment.
- Test the hinge and drawer slide mechanisms before finalizing the assembly to ensure smooth operation.
- If you’re using a mirror adhesive, give it plenty of time to set before moving the mirror.
Building a standing mirror with a storage compartment is a rewarding woodworking project that combines practicality with creativity. You can customize the size, finish, and design to suit your needs and space. This mirror can serve as both a functional piece and a stylish addition to your home decor.
For detailed plans and step-by-step instructions, consider checking out Teds Woodworking Course here.