DIY

How to Update a Mirror Frame Using Rub’n Buff

Have an old mirror that needs updating? Learn how to update a mirror frame using Rub’n Buff.

I’ve seen this awesome stuff called Rub ‘N Buff and I’ve really wanted to give it a try! Carmel has used it on a variety of things in her house, including her kitchen hardware! And Cassie used it to refinish a few mirrors in her house. All of the projects I’ve seen turned out wonderfully. So when I found this mirror for $2.50 at GoodWill, I decided I’d try my own little Rub ‘N Buff makeover!

update a mirror frame

It comes in this little tiny tube and costs about $5 on Amazon. I thought it was a bit pricey. But one little tube is supposed to be enough to cover like 20 sq. ft! The finish I chose was Silver Leaf, but they also have gold and bronze in a few different patinas.

How to Update a Mirror Frame Using Rub’n Buff

You just squirt a tiny bit of it on your finger, or a cloth. Then rub it into the surface you’re covering. I rubbed mine in a circular motion and back and forth, so I don’t think that really matters! I was so surprised by how well it covered the wooden frame on my mirror!

update a mirror frame

Overall, this project only took me an hour. And the Rub ‘N Buff was pretty much dry as soon as I was finished! The only thing that would have been better was if I could have gotten underneath the frame somehow. Just because the mirror reflects the wood on the inside.

I absolutely LOVE the way this project turned out though! I love how the natural grain of the wood and a bit of the color still peaks through! It could probably use a second coat to cover up the wood even better. But I’m really digging it as is!

update a mirror frame

And I also think it adds a nice festive touch to the house to go with my Christmas decorations! ๐Ÿ˜‰

update a mirror frame

Has anyone else ever used Rub ‘N Buff before? I’ve already got my eyes peeled for some other piece of furniture I can use this stuff on! It’s seriously awesome!

22 Comments

  1. Diana @ Boy + Girl

    Love this makeover! It looks great! I’ve never used Rub ‘N Buff before but I could totally find a use for it. I should pick some up and give it a try.

  2. That’s gorgeous, lady! So much better than the oak.

  3. I’ve never heard of this stuff before – but it does awesome things! Love the mirror.

  4. I agree! I love that the grain shows through the color. Great job! Rub n Buff is the best invention ever.

  5. I haven’t used any yet, but I definitely want to try! Great transformation!!

  6. Ohhh I love the mirror! I need to try that stuff! ๐Ÿ™‚

  7. Amy@BuffaloRoam

    Me likey! It is perrrrrfect for this time of year especially!

  8. I really want to try using this stuff too! I would like to try it on my vanity handles in the ensuite. I hate the brass finish but don’t mind the shape. I was looking for a mirror exactly like you found so I’m very jealous you found one for $2.50!! It looks great!

  9. Krystle @ Color Transformed Family

    I’ve never heard of this but it seems pretty cool and definitely handy in giving new life to thrift store finds. Great score on the mirror.

  10. very cool stuff ! i will try!

  11. I need to jump on this bandwagon because I love the look!!

  12. coolness! ๐Ÿ™‚

    p.s. I emailed you about your giftcard, email me back and let me know what you want ๐Ÿ™‚

  13. The mirror looks GREAT! I love the shape of it – so fun ๐Ÿ™‚

    I’ve been dying to try rub n buff, too. I want to attack some of the 80’s brass around here… haha

  14. Jessica@HomewithBaxter

    Great find on the mirror and I love how it came out. I’ve never used Rub&Buff before.

  15. this came out awesome! it looks modern but shabby chic at the same time. I really love the wood grain showing through…I need to add this to my amazon wishlist!

  16. I haven’t ever used rub n buff before but after seeing how it just transformed your that oak frame I want to run out and buy some and apply it everything ๐Ÿ™‚

    What a great transformation.

  17. I’ve never used rub n buff – I love the way it turned out!! It looks awesome!

  18. Kristen | Popcorn on the Stove

    The mirror looks so great with the silver. I’ve never used this stuff before (or even heard of it) but maybe I’ll have to find something I could use it on!!

  19. Kelly @ Corner of Main

    Awesome! I have never tried Rub and Buff before, but I may have to check it out!

  20. Looks great! Love how you can still see the grain ๐Ÿ™‚

  21. Such a pretty makeover! I never would’ve guessed it started out wood!

  22. Jocie@TheBetterHalf

    Hey Ashley! Thanks so much for linking up last week at The Humble Brag!!
    The Silhouette Cameo giveaway is still going strong and you can get MORE ENTRIES by signing up for link party email reminders, sharing the giveaway on FB with your readers, and linking up again. Hope to see you there tomorrow.

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