How to DIY an Antique Mirror Backsplash

Join HGTV’s Design Star: Next Gen winner Carmeon Hamilton as she completely transforms her home bar with this DIY craft that looks so sophisticated and so high-end, you'll hardly believe it wasn't store bought. And the best part? This decadent DIY is so simple, you can create it in the time it takes to finish one cocktail.

Before starting, it's time to mix up that cocktail. Carmeon chose a classic old-fashioned. To make your own, muddle a sugar cube and three dashes of bitters in the bottom of your glass. Add 2 ounces of bourbon and ice (we recommend one large ice cube to prevent the drink from becoming watered down too quickly) and stir. Garnish with an orange peel and luxardo cherry.

Spritz With Vinegar Solution

Before adding the mirrored effect, make sure you have your plexiglass cut to size with holes for fixtures and outlets. Once your plexiglass is ready, start by peeling the plastic off of one side. Make sure it’s very clean before moving to your next step (Image 1). Fill a large spray bottle with equal parts water and vinegar. Then spritz the plexiglass in quick bursts (Image 2). "When you’re looking at an actual antique mirror, a lot of the age and wear comes around the edges of the mirror, so that’s kind of where you want to focus your spritz," explains Carmeon.

Add Mirrored Spray Paint

"The magical portion of this craft is mirrored silver spray paint," says Carmeon. "Make sure it’s shaken very well and cover your entire plexi, including the water droplets. But don’t spray too close and move your water droplets around because you want the droplets to stay where they are so you get that splattered effect." Aim for very light coats, and keep in mind it may require a couple of light coats to cover the entire plexiglass (Image 1). Then, use a paper towel to gently blot up the water droplets (Image 2). "You’ll notice that there will be little spots where the spray paint didn’t go. That's important," adds Carmeon.

Add Black Spray Paint

For the last step, cover the entire plexiglass with black chalk spray paint (Image 1). Aim for even coverage. The black paint is what will give the glass its antiqued effect. Once the paint has dried fully, you're ready to install your mirror. To make things simple, Carmeon opted to install her mirror panels using adhesive strips (Image 2).

Enjoy!

"The luxury! The glamour!" exclaims Carmeon. "You guys, this is some plastic and some spray paint. Tell me this is not blowing your mind right now. We did this!”