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Mirror, Mirror… BOO!

Mirror, Mirror… BOO!

Halloween is just around the corner and I’m going to share how to make a BOO-tiful decoration for under $10. This marvelous mirror is sure to help you have a haunting Halloween.

Supplies needed:
  • *old mirror
  • foam brush
  • sandpaper
  • Mod Podge
  • digital copy of an old photo
  • a printer
  • * If you want to change the appearance of the mirror, you’ll need paint and whatever else strikes your frightful fancy.
Thrift stores usually have a ton of cheap mirrors.
Thrift stores usually have a ton of cheap mirrors.
Instructions

Step 1: Choose An Old Image
You can find many old photos on Flickr, Pinterest and, one of my favorite free image sites, The Graphics Fairy. Print the image on plain paper, sizing the image appropriately for your mirror.

Step 2: Sand It
After your take your mirror apart, start sanding in a circular motion on the part of your mirror where you want your image to appear. This is messy and you may want to wear gloves or a mask. You will need to exert a little pressure and it will look scratched and shadowy—adding to the spookiness. Don’t aim for a perfect circle or shape; a little unevenness just ups the fear factor. Make sure to wipe your mirror clean of any “sandings.”

Antiquating the mirror surface is a must. Channel you inner shabby chic.
Antiquating the mirror surface is a must. Channel you inner shabby chic.

Step 3: Paint
Paint the frame of the mirror, if desired. I used black acrylic craft paint, some crackle medium and, finally, a coat of glitter paint. Personally, I think everything is better with glitter. Set aside to dry.

Step 4: Get Tacky
Apply a thin coat of Mod Podge on the back of your mirror where you’ve sanded an opening through which your specter can provide a scare. Go outside of the opening a bit with your Mod Podge.

Step 5: Trim It Up
Trim your image to fit the opening but leave a little bit of paper around the edge. Place the image so that the face is where you wish it to appear. You’ll have to flip the mirror up and down a bit to make sure your adopted ancestor is peering out appropriately. Once you’re satisfied with the positioning, gently press paper to the back of the mirror, smoothing bubbles and wrinkles as you go. Apply another coat of Mod Podge to the back of the paper, smoothing down all edges. Set aside to dry.

Step 6: Assemble
Once all your pieces are dry, put them together.

Voila!
Voila!

Step 7: Decor
I chose to add some extra tricks and treats by placing a crow from the dollar store atop a plaster hand from Michael’s.

Hang it up and get ready to say “Boo!”

Thrift shops are the perfect place to find mirrors. This entire project cost less than $10. While sanding should be left to adults, the kids can get in on the fun by helping with the paint, Mod Podge and image selection.

If you make your own mirror, we’d love to see photos on the Rocket City Mom Facebook page. Questions? Leave them in the comments.

Wishing you a Halloween of terrific treats!


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