Ever wondered how to make a mirror that’s colorful, playful, and full of personality without spending a lot? Try this simple DIY mirror project.
Recently I’ve been fascinated by the idea of transparent color—layers that let light through while adding visual interest. I collected inspiration on a new Pinterest board and decided to put the idea to work in a home-decor DIY.
This color-blocked mirror project, created in partnership with 3M and ScotchBlue™ Painter’s Tape, is easy to replicate at home. You don’t need brushes or spray paint—just a few basic supplies and a little patience. It creates a translucent, stained-glass effect that keeps the mirror functional and gives any space a cheerful pop of color.
How to Make a Color-Blocked Mirror
If you want to give a mirror more personality with simple materials, this DIY is a great place to start. It’s affordable, quick, and produces a clean, professional-looking result. If you already own a mirror, the supplies for this project will usually cost under $20.
Materials for the Project
- ScotchBlue PLATINUM Painter’s Tape (recommended for clean lines and no seepage)
- Any mirror—round, square, or beveled depending on your preference
- 4–6 ounces of transparent glass stain (available in multiple colors)
- Sharp blade or craft knife
- Glass cleaner and a clean rag
Note: ScotchBlue PLATINUM Painter’s Tape works well for glass because its advanced material helps prevent paint or stain seepage and adheres cleanly to many surface types. For delicate or freshly painted walls and wood floors, use the ScotchBlue™ WALLS + WOOD FLOORS tape designed for those surfaces.
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Clean the mirror thoroughly with glass cleaner and a lint-free rag. Removing dust and oils ensures the tape adheres and the stain applies evenly.
Mirror options: I tested three sizes of beveled mirrors but used two for the final display. Any mirror will work—choose a size and shape that fits your space.
2. After the mirror is dry, plan your color-blocked design and apply ScotchBlue PLATINUM Painter’s Tape directly to the glass to mask the areas you want to remain reflective. Press the tape down firmly to seal the edges.
3. Place the mirror on a level work surface that can stay undisturbed for at least 24 hours. Lay scrap paper underneath to catch any stray stain. Apply the transparent glass stain directly from the applicator bottle into the exposed areas of glass. I used three 2 oz bottles in pink, orange, and aqua. The applicator tip allows for even coverage without a brush.
Apply steady pressure to the bottle and move evenly across the masked section without lifting the tip to minimize air bubbles. If bubbles appear, pop them gently while working. Wait a full 24 hours for the stain to cure.
4. Once the stain is dry, use a sharp blade to lightly score along the tape edge where the stain meets the tape. This helps create a crisp line when removing the tape.
5. Slowly peel the tape back at a 45° angle, pulling it onto itself for the cleanest edge. Removing the tape carefully gives you an ultra-sharp border between color and mirror. The tape can be removed cleanly within 14 days if you don’t take it off immediately.
Final Look and Styling Ideas
The finished mirror has a translucent, stained-glass effect that catches the light and adds a playful, slightly retro vibe—think 1970s color sensibilities without feeling dated. Because the stain is transparent, the reflective function of the mirror remains intact while the colored sections create soft, tinted reflections.
This small upgrade works beautifully in entryways, bedrooms, bathrooms, or any room that benefits from a decorative accent. Try mixing shapes, using multiple mirrors, or choosing a limited color palette for a more subtle effect.
Styling tip: pair the mirror with simple, neutral furnishings so the colored sections read as accents. The effect works well with woven textures, minimalist benches, and framed artwork for a layered entryway vignette.
Would you try this color-blocked mirror DIY? It’s an accessible project with big visual payoff—perfect for anyone looking to add a creative, affordable touch to their home.