DIY DORM MIRROR (season changeable)

So I’ve done this hack once before but I made a mirror wall at my old apartment by removing the borders and sticking to my wall with command strips but I think this is so much cuter because it allows you to change the border every season! Andddd it’s more durable!

I kind of give a lil synopsis in each picture of how to accomplish the finished product but I want to go a bit more in depth here for anyone who might try this out and encounter the same struggles as me.

First here’s a list of products I used and their prices:

2x mirrors: $14 (Walmart or target)

Phillips head screw driver: $?? Got from my tool box

Box cutter: $?? Also got from my tool box (SUPER NECESSARY)

Blow dryer: $?? I’ve had it for years

Hot glue gun and extra glue packages: $10 (five below)

3X Poster board: $9 (Walmart)

Duct tape: $3 (five below)

String bulb lights: $7 (Walmart) and 3 AA batteries!!

Decorations: $10 (dollar store items!!)

First you have to peel the paper off the back of the mirror to expose the edges w the staples. I’ve seen other people wet the paper and remove it from the mirror completely but this isn’t necessary. (See picture 4)

Then using your box cutter/scissors/phillips screw driver remove the staples from all four sides of the mirrors.

Next, one side at a time, use your blow dryer to heat the glue at each border and peel by pulling towards you and being gentle with the mirror not to bend it in any extreme way because it gets flimsy at this point when removing the borders.

Once your borders are off if there’s any glue remaining carefully use the box cutter to remove it. If you have glue remover you can use that but also isn’t super necessary.

Next repeat the process on the second mirror and then tape your three poster boards at the seams on both sides with duct tape horizontally.

Then you’ll line up your mirrors over the poster board where you believe the center is and carefully glue it down using hot glue. This part is the most difficult I actually ended up crack my mirror at this point but I was so close I just decided to live with the cracks in it. (See picture 2)

If you want extra security I’d recommend using E6000 in the centers and then securing the borders of the mirror with the hot glue.

Next you’ll hot glue the string light bulbs around the border where you see fit. (See second picture)

Then lastly I had to hot glue the over the door metal hanging pieces to the back of the poster board to put it over my door but I also attached 20Lb command strips to each side of the back of the poster board for extra security.

I had to reheat the hot glue when doing the metal pieces on the back a few times to make it even on my door, but that’s the best part about hot glue you can still reheat it if need be!

Once I was done I hung it on the back of my door and started decorating!

When October comes around I’ll be adding some spooky decor to the border and then once thanksgiving rolls around I’ll switch it up again!

That’s my favorite part about this mirror!! I can have a little project to do each season and have creative fun with it!! Hope you all enjoy!!

#dormdecor

#lemon8challenge #dormhacks

#dormfinds #DIY #diyhomeprojects

Florida Gulf Coast University
2024/9/10 Edited to

... Read moreI absolutely love how a good mirror can instantly transform a small space, especially in a dorm room where every inch counts! This DIY season-changeable mirror isn't just about decor; it's a brilliant hack for making your dorm feel much bigger and brighter. I've found that placing a large mirror, like this over-the-door one, opposite a window can work wonders by reflecting natural light and creating the illusion of more depth. It's one of my top dorm room organization ideas for small spaces because it serves multiple purposes – checking outfits, decorating, and opening up the room. If you're wondering how can I make my small dorm room feel bigger?, a strategically placed mirror is always the answer. Now, let's talk about those little hiccups that can happen during a DIY project. The original creator mentioned cracking their mirror a bit, and honestly, that's part of the charm of DIY! Instead of seeing it as a flaw, I love to think of these as opportunities for extra creativity. For instance, if you end up with a small crack, you could turn it into a broken mirror craft idea by carefully applying a thin line of glitter glue along the crack, or even small adhesive gems to create a 'kintsugi' effect – embracing the imperfection beautifully. Another broken mirror idea could be to strategically place a small vinyl decal or even a cute sticker over a minor imperfection, making it look intentional. It adds character and a unique story to your piece! The best part about this project is truly the mirror border ideas for seasonal changes. It’s so much fun to switch things up! For fall, I’ve seen people use rustic twine and attach faux leaf garlands with tiny pumpkins or acorns, often weaving in those warm string lights for a cozy glow. For winter, think fluffy white cotton batting to mimic snow, silver tinsel, or even small adhesive snowflakes paired with cool-toned LED string lights. Come spring, you could use faux floral vines, pastel ribbons, or even little bird decals. And for summer, bright, colorful leis or seashell accents would be perfect, keeping the string lights for a warm evening vibe. The foam board backing makes it easy to attach and re-attach different decorations without damaging the mirror itself. Think about how you're hanging it too. While over-the-door is super convenient for dorms, if your room allows, securing it to a wall with heavy-duty command strips (as mentioned in the original project) gives it a more permanent, built-in feel. This also frees up door space. I always recommend using a combination of hanging methods for extra security, especially for a larger piece like this. Finding foam board and other materials at discount stores or during sales can keep the cost super low, making this an incredibly budget-friendly project. You can often find string lights on clearance after holidays, which is a great tip for stocking up on future seasonal decor! Getting creative with sourcing materials is half the fun and helps keep the overall cost down, leaving more room for future seasonal decor. Happy decorating!