How To Make A Broadway Lighted Vanity Mirror

How To Make a Broadway Lighted Vanity Mirror

Broadway-style vanity mirrors, with their dazzling array of lights, are increasingly popular in homes and hotels. They add a touch of glamour and professionalism to any space, providing excellent illumination for applying makeup and styling hair. While you can purchase these mirrors readily, creating a DIY version is a satisfying and cost-effective project. This guide will walk you through the steps of building your own Broadway lighted vanity mirror, offering detailed instructions and tips for a successful outcome.

Choosing Your Mirror and Lights

The first step is to select the mirror and lights that will form the foundation of your Broadway vanity mirror. Carefully consider the size and shape of the mirror, ensuring it complements the space where it will be placed. For the lights, you have several options:

LED Strip Lights: These are popular for their energy efficiency, long lifespan, and diverse color options. Look for waterproof and dimmable LED strips for versatility.
Bulb Strings: Classic fairy lights can add a whimsical touch. Choose strands with warm white or cool white bulbs, depending on the desired ambiance.
Hollywood-Style Bulbs: These create a classic movie star look. You can purchase individual bulbs or string lights with these bulbs.

Once you have chosen your lights, determine their placement around the mirror. Consider creating a uniform ring of lights around the mirror for a classic Broadway style or opting for a more whimsical arrangement with bulbs placed at varying heights. In the case of LED strip lights, you can create custom shapes and patterns with ease.

Creating the Mirror Frame

The next step is to construct a frame for your mirror that will house the lights. The frame can be made from various materials, including wood, metal, or even acrylic. Select materials complementary to the mirror and your desired aesthetic. Construction methods vary depending on the chosen material. For wood, you can use mitered joints, dado joints, or rabbet joints. Metal frames may require bending or welding, while acrylic frames can be joined with adhesives or specialized clamps.

When building the frame, ensure it is slightly larger than the mirror to accommodate the lights and their wiring. Leave enough space between the frame and the mirror for the lights to be mounted without obscuring the reflective surface. Consider using spacer blocks or molding to achieve the desired distance.

Installing the Lights

With the frame complete, it's time to install the lights. The installation method depends on the light source. Here are some guidelines for each type:

LED Strip Lights: Use a strong adhesive backing to attach the strip lights to the inner surface of the frame. Ensure the adhesive is compatible with the chosen frame material. Cut the strip lights to the desired length and connect them to a power supply. For waterproof LED strips, consider adding a sealant around the edges of the frame to prevent water ingress.
Bulb Strings: Secure the bulb strings to the frame using zip ties, wire clips, or hot glue. Arrange the bulbs uniformly or in a desired pattern. Ensure the wires are properly concealed within the frame. If using conventional bulbs, consider using an extension cord or a power strip to provide a convenient power source.
Hollywood-Style Bulbs: These bulbs often come with sockets that can be mounted directly to the frame. Secure the sockets with screws or adhesive. Connect the bulbs to a power source, paying attention to the correct voltage and wattage.

After installing the lights, test them to ensure they are functioning correctly. Adjust the placement or angle of the lights until you achieve the desired illumination. Depending on the type of lights used, you may need to create a custom wiring system within the frame, incorporating a switch and dimmer for convenient control.

Finishing Touches

Once the lights are installed, you can add finishing touches to enhance the look and functionality of your Broadway vanity mirror. This may involve:

Painting: Enhance the frame by painting it in a complementary color or adding a decorative finish. Consider applying a thin layer of sealant to the frame for protection and durability.
Hardware: Install hardware, such as knobs or hooks, on the frame to add functionality. These can be used to hang jewelry, towels, or other accessories.
Mirror Backplate: Add a backplate to the mirror to create a polished look. You can use plywood, MDF, or acrylic for this purpose. Ensure the backplate is cut to the exact size and shape of the mirror.

With the finishing touches completed, your Broadway lighted vanity mirror is ready to be enjoyed. Its dazzling light and glamorous aesthetic will enhance any space, providing the perfect illumination for your daily routines.