Just because an antique platter or plate is scratched, cracked, or broken, its useful life doesn't have to end. Its patterned border can be used as the decorative frame for a mirror. Even noticeably damaged china can work, especially when paired with antique-seeming fogged-mirror glass. Cluster several mirror plates to brighten a dining-room wall, or mount an elegant platter above the bathroom sink for flattering reflections. Although our transferware-framed mirror seems to dangle from a beribboned picture nail, it's actually secured by a plate hanger.
Mirror How-To
If the platter or plate is split into several pieces, glue them together with ceramic epoxy, and allow them to dry (following manufacturer's instructions).
1. With a measuring tape, measure the perimeter of the platter's central well at its flattest point. Measure each side; old ceramics are rarely perfectly symmetrical.
2. Draw the measured shape on a piece of paper, then cut it out to make a template. Check for accuracy by laying the template on the platter; it should fit and lie flat.
3. If you're using a round plate, you may be able to find a circular mirror of the right size at a craft store. If the platter is an unusual size or shape, have a professional glass cutter use your template to custom-cut a mirror. Request a polished edge, which is safer to handle.
4. For braided trim around the glass, attach pillow piping. Cut the piping 1 inch longer than the perimeter of the mirror. Glue the flat side of the piping to the mirror's underside. With a fine paintbrush, dab craft glue onto the first few inches of the piping, then press it onto the mirror's edge. Hold this piece in place while it dries. Apply glue to the rest of the piping in 1-inch segments, and press it onto the mirror's edge. When the mirror is completely surrounded, but before pressing down where the two ends will meet, trim the excess piping. Immediately singe both ends of the piping with a match to prevent fraying, and glue the ends together; tuck stray strands into the glue.
5. To attach the mirror glass to the platter permanently, use ceramic epoxy. Apply epoxy to the back of the mirror in a big X from side to side and in a thin line just within the perimeter. Press the mirror onto the platter. The epoxy must be dry before you hang the finished mirror. If you'd like to be able to remove the mirror in the future, use mounting tape instead of glue. Peel off one side of the tape backing, and affix a grid of tape to the back of the mirror; peel off the remaining backing, and press the mirror onto the platter.
6. To mount the framed mirror on the wall, grip the platter's edges with a plate hanger of the appropriate size.
Repurposed furniture is an awesome way to add new life to an otherwise lackluster piece of furniture. It can be both challenging and fun. If you are looking for some unique pieces, or creative inspiration, check out some 510 Decor is on Facebook! projects by 510 Decor!
Repurposed furniture is an awesome way to add new life to an otherwise lackluster piece of furniture. It can be both challenging and fun. If you are looking for some unique pieces, or creative inspiration, check out some Repurposed Furniture projects by 510 Decor!
What a fantastic idea. I can think twice now before discarding breakages of old but previously loved china.
OOOH! I have another Idea! Why not buy those little mirrored tiles used for mosaics, and make a decorative mosaic glass tray? That would be beautiful with a bud vase on it, on a small table.....Jenny at www.CrafTestDummies.com
I'm so glad I read this comment. What a great idea. Especially since the weather is gettiing good for garage sale shopping. I love getting my Christmas shopping done early. Two thumbs up to you.
This is my new #1 idea for Christmas presents. I have to come up with 25 co-worker gifts at about a dollar each. I'm going to collect teacup saucers from second-hand stores etc and then fit them with a standard round mirror and the ribbon for hanging. I might even make a string of seed beads for the roping that have the colors of the plates in them (if I have enough time!) This will be a great craft to do on the patio this summer!
At last an idea for my lovely white and pink bread and butter plate. The plate is so lovely, but I dont want to use it and have hot water break the glue. Thank you to the team inthe craft section.
At last an idea for my lovely white and pink bread and butter plate. The plate is so lovely, but I dont want to use it and have hot water break the glue. Thank you to the team inthe craft section.
What a lovely and useful way to use several china and ceramic pieces that, well just can't hold fluid anymore.
This is for pelican66. I have an idea for your old chipped mixing bowls, etc. You could continue to break them for a mosaic. How about a mosaic trivet or platter?
this is a terrific recycling idea..........now martha dear? got any ideas for those chipped mixing bowls of my grandmother's i can't bear to throw away? lol
this is such a great idea! I have a number of platters as well as silver platters that this would work for. How much is the average cost of a cut mirror?
This is beautiful! What a great idea for a guest bedroom or small powder room. How about a small sandwich plate hung above where you keep your purse/keys for that last minute application of lipstick before going out the door? Love it!
What a great idea. I have been keeping a broken plate for years. I wanted to use it to make something decorative and now I know what to do with it. I loved that plate and it is going to be nice to see it everyday again. Thanks.