Tools and Materials
Tools
Materials
- See Project Diagram for Lumber Required
- 16-in x 58-in Beveled Mirror
- 5/16-in x 36-in Oak Dowel
- #10 x 3-in Flathead Sheet-Metal Screws
- #8 x 1-1/2-in Flathead Sheet-Metal Screws
- #8 x 3/4-in Pan Head Screws
- 1/4-in x 3/8-in x 1-in Steel Spacers (4)
- 3/8-in x 1/2-in x 1-in Steel Spacers (4)
- 18-in Hangman Picture-Hanging System
- 1/2-in Square Cabinet Bumpers
- Ebony Interior Stain, 8 oz
- 320-Grit Sandpaper
- Paste Finishing Wax
- Semi-Gloss Aerosol Polyurethane
Items may be Special Order only in some stores. Product costs, availability and item numbers may vary online or by market. Paint colors may vary slightly from those shown. Availability varies by market for lumber species and sizes.
Can You Put a Mirror in an Entryway?
You can put a mirror in an entryway if you want to create the illusion of more space or if you simply like the appearance of an entryway mirror. A mirror can add personality and light to a space and also make it feel more open. If you have a small entryway, a foyer mirror generally looks good. Spending a lot of money on a large mirror isn’t necessary to make your entryway look and feel bigger, though. You can create a do-it-yourself mirror by following the instructions below.
How High Should an Entry Mirror Be?
A large foyer mirror — at least 40 inches tall — should be anywhere between 55 and 65 inches from the floor if it’s hanging alone on a wall. If your mirror is smaller, you may need to place it a bit lower to create a balanced look in your entryway. If you’re placing the mirror above a table or hallway console, place it between 6 and 8 inches higher than the table or console.
Where Should You Hang an Entryway Mirror?
Ideally, a large entryway mirror should hang in the center of the main wall. If possible, put it on the wall opposite a window so the natural light can come in and reflect off the mirror. This will help brighten the entryway and make it more welcoming. If you have a console or table in your entryway, a mirror will look nice centered above it. Just make sure the mirror isn’t so big that it overpowers the table and creates an unbalanced look.
See the Project Diagram for detailed instructions.
Make a Frame
The following steps will help you build your own entryway mirror with supplies from Lowe’s.
If you don’t have all the tools you need to get the job done, you can rent them from Lowe’s.
Build a Shelf
Now it’s time to build a shelf that’ll go nicely with your entryway mirror. You can use it for decorative purposes or as a place to keep small items, such as keys.
Stain It and Hang It
Now that you’ve created and put your entryway mirror’s shelf together, it’s time to stain it and hang it.