An old mirror frame can collect dust in an attic for years, but with a bit of inspiration, it turns into an eye-catching piece of boho home decor. I’m always looking for new, creative ways to breathe life into these forgotten frames. Not only does it breathe personality into a room, but it’s also budget friendly and sustainable, so it’s really a win-win.
Whether you stumble across a vintage mirror at a thrift shop, or you have one left over from a bathroom reno, there are so many ways to use those chunky frames. I’m ready to get into the best boho inspired ideas I’ve tried or seen so you can turn any old mirror frame into something that looks like it’s straight from a dreamy boutique.
Want to give those frames a new purpose? Check out 10 creative ideas for using old mirror frames to create beautiful, boho-inspired decor. You’ll definitely track down ideas here that will work for any vibe you want to create!
1. Transform with Paint for a Fresh Boho Look
Painting is probably the easiest way to give an old mirror frame an instant boho vibe. I like using matte pastel shades or even rich earth tones; think terracotta, mustard yellow, sage, or dusty rose. Chalk paint is super popular for this because it gives a soft, vintage feeling finish that won’t look too shiny.
Painting Tips for Boho Style
- Layer a few colors for a weathered effect
- Add subtle gold or copper highlights on details
- Try geometric or freehand mandala designs with a stencil for extra flair
If you want a playful look, go bold with bright turquoise, coral, or teal. If you’re after something calming and earthy, neutral and muted tones are a good pick. Don’t stress about perfect lines; the gorgeous thing about boho decor is how relaxed it feels.
2. Wrap with Rope for Texture and Natural Charm
Wrapping an old mirror frame with thick rope or jute brings warmth and coastal energy to your space. This works well if the frame has chips or scratches you want to cover, too. I like starting at one spot and winding the rope snugly all the way around, securing it here and there with hot glue. The result looks super rustic and inviting.
- Try braiding three pieces of jute for a chunky look
- Mix in colored yarn with the rope for extra boho fun
This is a really easy weekend project, even if you don’t consider yourself crafty. Hang your finished frame over a macrame wall hanging or against a colorful fabric backdrop for a layered boho effect.
3. Driftwood Accents for a Coastal Boho Vibe
Driftwood instantly makes any decor feel laid back and beachy. I’ve glued small pieces of driftwood, overlapping and angled, around a plain frame, then sanded the edges a bit for a softer finish. You can keep things simple by gluing the driftwood only to the bottom or corners, or cover the whole frame for a statement piece.
Pair this look with other natural materials like seashells, stones, or beads. If you want your driftwood to pop, whitewash it lightly or leave it as is for raw, weathered texture. Display photos or woven art inside for maximum boho vibes.
4. Mosaic Magic with Small Colorful Tiles
Adding small, colorful tiles instantly gives old mirror frames that eclectic, global feel you find in boho spaces. There are plenty of mosaic tiles in fun shapes and colors at craft stores and online. I like to mix glass, ceramic, or even broken china pieces for a truly unique pattern.
How to Create a Mosaic Frame
- Lay out your tile pattern before you start gluing
- Glue the tiles one by one with strong craft adhesive
- Fill the gaps with grout, then wipe off the excess
This is a bit messy, but it’s totally worth it when you see the finished frame sparkling on your wall. Mosaic frames look awesome on a gallery wall or bordering a sunny window, bringing in tons of color and artistry.
5. Boho Fabric Wrapped Frames
If you have fabric scraps from old clothes, scarves, or tablecloths, this hack is a perfect way to make use of them. I like to wrap strips of patterned or embroidered fabric around old mirror frames, overlapping them to create a colorful patchwork look. Batik, tiedye, and kantha quilt scraps are especially good here.
Tack down the edges with glue, and trim any frayed pieces for a cleaner finish, if that’s the vibe you want. Or you can let some edges fray for extra boho charm. Hang lightweight mirrors or photographs inside for an easy wall update. This technique is a great way to add texture and pops of pattern to your space without spending much.
6. Clay Embellishments for a Custom Touch
Air dry or polymer clay lets you make little embellishments for plain frames. I enjoy rolling tiny beads, flowers, or even pressed leaves from clay and gluing them around the frame. If you’re up for something more detailed, try creating an entire border with clay shapes pressed with lace, stamps, or textured tools for extra interest.
Let the clay dry completely before attaching it, then paint or glaze your creations however you like. The handmade look brings tons of personality, plus you can make your frame match specific colors in your room. The unique touch clay provides makes any old frame feel new again.
7. Add Artificial Plants for a Lively Twist
Turning a mirror frame into a mini vertical garden is easier than I expected. Glue or wire on faux succulents, hanging plants, or eucalyptus for a lush look that stays green year round. I’ve woven artificial vines all the way around a frame or packed mini planters into the corners for extra volume.
- Mix plant textures; succulents, ferns, and even dried pampas grass look great together
- Secure heavier stems with floral wire
This idea looks amazing hung against a bright accent wall or as part of a plant filled gallery corner. No watering needed, just an occasional dusting! You can even use real dried stems for a more textured and earthy vibe.
8. Turn Frames into Unique Boho Wall Trays
An old mirror frame becomes a cool wall tray by adding a piece of plywood or woven cane where the mirror was. I stain the wood or wrap it in decorative fabric, then mount hooks along the bottom to hold jewelry, tiny baskets, or even keys.
This is great if you want wall decor that’s useful and stylish. Hang your finished tray by the entry or in a bathroom for quick access to essentials. Attach strong hooks at the back so it hangs securely. This doubles as both a statement piece and helpful organizer.
9. Layer Frames for Depth and Texture
If you’ve collected several mirror frames in different shapes or sizes, try hanging them overlapping or nested. I love the unexpectedly artsy look this brings to a space, especially if you use frames in mixed materials; wood, painted, tiled, fabricwrapped, all together.
Hang some empty frames and others with photos or art inside for a creative, unique display. There are no strict rules with this look, so have fun mixing and matching until it feels right for your room. Layering frames creates interesting depth and throws a bit of the unexpected onto your walls.
10. Boho Chalkboard or Message Board
By adding a piece of painted MDF or corkboard to an old mirror frame, you get a handy chalkboard or pinboard that doubles as wall art. I like to paint the surface black for chalk or cover it in burlap for pinning. Add some decorative pushpins, washi tape, or string lights to finish the look.
Mount this in your kitchen or workspace to display to-do lists, notes, or favorite quotes. The boho twist comes from how you decorate the frame, whether it’s rope, macrame, mosaic, or paint; it adds your personal touch to a practical piece. Making a message board can be a fun family project, or a creative way to track goals or memories.
Try Your Own Boho Frame Makeover
Old mirror frames are a goldmine for DIY boho decor projects. Whether you go heavy on color, texture, or greenery, there’s no wrong way to customize them. I love how each frame brings new energy to a space and keeps a piece of the past alive in a fresh way. Don’t be afraid to experiment or combine several ideas for a frame that’s totally you; there are endless possibilities, and half the fun is in the process! Remember, every unique frame makeover you do not only brightens up your home but also reduces waste and inspires others. Turn those forgotten frames into the nextlevel cool centerpiece for your boho sanctuary!