DIY IKEA Mirror Black Paint Spray Painting Hack For Under $25

Transforming an IKEA Mirror with Black Paint

IKEA offers affordable, stylish home furnishing options, but their selection of mirrors leaves something to be desired. Rather than settling for a basic mirror or spending money on a high-end designer piece, you can transform an inexpensive IKEA mirror into something sleek and modern with just a can of black spray paint.

Materials Needed

This simple IKEA hack requires just a few supplies:

• IKEA mirror - Consider rectangular or circular frames up to about 30 inches.
• Black spray paint - Matte or glossy finish.
• Painter's tape
• Drop cloths or newspapers
• Sandpaper - Fine grit.
• Tack cloth

The project costs under $25 for a brand new look!

Preparing the IKEA Mirror

Before spraying, you’ll need to properly prep the mirror’s frame. Work in a well-ventilated area and lay down drop cloths or newspaper to protect surrounding surfaces.

Start by lightly sanding the frame to help the paint adhere. Wipe away any dust with a tack cloth. Use painter’s tape to mask off the mirror glass so it remains paint-free.

Spray Painting for a Smooth Finish

It’s important to apply thin and even coats of spray paint. Hold the can 6 to 8 inches from the frame’s surface. Mist on the paint rather than spraying heavy coats which can pool and drip.

Slowly spray across all frame surfaces, moving the can in light, sweeping motions. Apply 2-3 coats, allowing 10 minutes of drying time between coats. Adding multiple thin layers creates a smooth, professional-looking finish.

Be patient during this step - properly applied spray paint needs to dry completely before moving to the next stage.

Achieving a Modern Black Mirror

After at least 24 hours of dry time, carefully peel off any painter’s tape to reveal a perfectly framed mirror glass. Reattach any hardware like hanging clips or removable stands using glue or other adhesives.

Display your custom painted piece in an entryway, bathroom, or bedroom. The dark dramatic shade adds stylish contrast and works with any color scheme from bright and bold to neutral minimalism.

Tips and Inspiration

Follow these helpful tips for getting flawless spray painted results:

• Choose a calm, dry day - Avoid wind or rain so paint dries properly.
• Mask intricate frame details with painter’s tape if desired.
• Spray thin coats using a side-to-side sweeping motion.
• Let paint dry fully between coats according to can directions.

For more creative inspiration, consider adding patterns like polka dots or chevron stripes using painter’s tape and two paint colors. Or use silver, white, or another color paint for the mirror's frame.

Frequently Asked Questions

Here are answers to some common questions about transforming IKEA mirrors with spray paint:

• What kind of spray paint works best? Look for paint specifically made for glass, metal, plastic or other mirrored frame materials. Matte finishes prevent unwanted glare.
• How do I prevent paint dripping? Avoid applying too much paint in one area and make sure each coat is completely dry before adding another.
• What if my paint scratches off? Gently sand any damaged areas and respray paint for a quick fix. Adding multiple thin coats creates a durable finish.
• How long does the paint last? Properly prepped and spray painted frames hold up for years. Glossy finishes may show minor scuffs over time.

Achieve Striking Style on a Budget

With just a simple trip to IKEA, a can of spray paint, and some creativity, you can craft a custom mirror perfect for your home. The black painted frame adds modern personality and dimension for less than $25.

Experiment with paint techniques and colors to find a look you love. The process takes less than an hour. Simply let the paint fully cure before enjoying your brand new standout mirror.

FAQs

What kind of spray paint works best for IKEA mirrors?

Look for paint specifically made for the material of your IKEA mirror's frame. Matte finishes are great for avoiding unwanted glare on the glass.

How do I prevent the spray paint from dripping?

Avoid applying too much paint in one area by spraying light, even coats. Make sure each coat fully dries before adding another to prevent drips.

What if my painted IKEA mirror gets scratched?

Gently sand any damaged paint areas and respray for a quick fix. Using multiple thin spray paint coats creates a more durable finish that resists scratches.

How long will the black spray painted finish last?

A properly prepped IKEA mirror frame holds black spray paint for years without chipping or peeling. High-gloss finishes may develop minor scuffs over time.