The right antique mirror will make your space absolutely shine. It brings a unique touch to your house while also making your room appear more spacious. While an antique mirror adds its own charm, sometimes, it takes a bit of extra work to bring it back to life. With the right steps, you can have a piece that will last for years to come.
Restoring the Frame
The material of the frame is one of the most important considerations when it comes to restoring an antique mirror. If the surface is a simple wooden frame, you can always sand it down and stain it with a finish that will best match your room. If the frame has been painted and requires stripping, it’s important to protect the glass while applying the product. While you can tape or cover the mirror, the best bet is to remove the glass if possible before applying.
While some clean up tarnished brass mirror frames with spray paint, consider trying to shine it first. While ketchup is wonderful on french fries, it’s even better on brass! The acidicness means it’s a good tool for getting out years of damage. Be sure to test it on a small spot before applying to the rest of the frame. Let it sit for a few minutes and then wipe clean with a cloth. You can also ditch the ketchup and try this method with a mixture of juice from half of a lemon and a teaspoon of baking soda. Let the paste sit for up to ninety minutes and then wipe clean. Once the tarnish is gone, apply a brass sealer. To maintain the frame, simply wipe with a microfiber cloth.
Restoring the Glass
The glass might be a bit harder to restore. You can always try to resilver it, but the process is arduous and can be a bit dangerous. Many antique mirrors used mercury that can come off in the process, creating a hazard! If the glass is in rough condition, you can always replace the glass entirely. You’ll keep the charm of the antique frame while having the practicality of modern glass.
If you’re looking for the right company to replace the glass for your antique mirror, give us a call! At St. Louis Glass Works, we can provide you with a quote and walk you through the next steps to make your mirror the perfect home accent.