How to make a makeup mirror with your own hands - we reveal 20 secrets.


I've been on this site for almost 3 years. And all these 3 years I have been tormented by the memories of my first not very successful review about... light bulbs!) With this review I will try to correct the situation and tell you about one interesting application of those same light bulbs for which even the link was burned out... but they are not) Link in the review I give for similar light bulbs and, judging by the reviews, they are even quite good.

A batch of light bulbs was ordered - 2 lots (10 pcs each). Each cost 3.3 dollars. 7 W bulbs with E27 socket.

On the seller's page they looked like this. In real life it's like that

More about light bulbs

We ordered 7 W bulbs, but in fact they turned out to be 4 W or even less. But this is no longer news for readers of this site. I think that at the above link, you will find much more useful information about a similar light bulb, its characteristics and brightness... I’m afraid that I don’t have enough skill to compete with our “giants of thought”))) Therefore, I will tell and show everything from a woman’s point of view vision)

Initially, the idea was to use these light bulbs throughout the house, but their rather dim light soon began to “confuse” me and I began to suspect that these were not 7 W, but much smaller... Then these light bulbs moved to my husband’s garage, and some were left at home for “every fireman” (and 4 of them still light up in the bathroom). During all this time, not a single light bulb burned out. Yes, there’s nothing that melts: the power is low, and the LEDs don’t overheat too much (as far as I understand) Bulb in disassembly


Unfortunately, I don’t have anything to measure the power with... I’ll just show how it shines compared to a 25 W incandescent lamp. The light was chosen warm white (warm white). I apologize for the bubbles on the wallpaper. I’m shocked))

From the photo you can see that the LED lighting radius is much smaller, the light is “one-sided”. Even 3 light bulbs were not enough to properly illuminate the room. It was a bit of a shame for the money spent. I still had to go to the city stores and buy “normal” ones. Although, there were also questions here (some light bulbs quickly burned out and they even had to be changed several times under warranty)... Which is still not the case with the Chinese ones))))

The Chinese light bulbs were lying around, gathering dust... But one day I “came with an idea”!


My husband is always afraid of these words. Because he knows that the next few days will not allow him to live in peace)))

It was decided to make a mirror with lighting

.
Why a dressing room? That's what they call him online. And it’s probably very convenient for make-up artists to use just this to better illuminate the “client’s” face. I liked it for its design. “In loft style” - it seems that this is another way to describe it) Also, my goal
was: - to make a “mobile” mirror that can be transported anywhere; -make a kind of “lamp” (by the way, at the moment it is most used this way) -diversify and decorate the interior -see everything on your face even in the evening)

Benefits of Using Lighted Makeup Mirrors

  • A magnifying mirror helps you see (really see) what you are doing. These minor imperfections, such as too much foundation or excess facial hair, will be more visible and you can fix them quickly.
  • The outline in front of this mirror can illuminate your face evenly. This helps you achieve a perfectly sculpted and highlighted face that will be the envy of everyone.
  • Modern makeup mirror models are super compact and take up very little space in your bag. Some of them are even travel-friendly!
  • You can choose the intensity of your magnifying mirror. They usually range from 15x to 20x. you can also choose lower magnification levels such as 5x or 8x.
  • Your makeup will definitely become more precise even when you use a lighted makeup mirror. You will be surprised with the incredible finish that you will achieve.

Here is a list of the 12 best lighted makeup mirrors.

How to avoid mistakes when choosing

Modern technologies offer a wide selection of mirrors in shape, color, size, and functional features.

The main criteria for choosing a quality product that you should pay attention to.

Location

The main criterion is where the mirror will hang (stand):

  • bathroom;
  • entrance hall, hall;
  • wardrobe;
  • mobile (portable) options.

Size

The most common parameters:

  • 40 cm – allows you to see the face, chest area;
  • 60 cm – waist-length view;
  • 120 cm is a reflection of the figure up to the knees.

Shape, design

Standard figures, design solutions – different interiors:

  • square, rectangular shape - modern style;
  • round, oval - classic interior;
  • custom-made forms for individual selection (books, dew drops).

Mirror quality

Long-term use depends on the quality of the base material:

  • thickness – the optimal choice is 4-6 mm. High-quality goods - from sheet glass of the highest brands (M1 - mirror improved, M2 - mirror, M3 - polished window glass);
  • smoothness - without dots, spots, irregularities;
  • coating - consists of 3 layers: reflective silver coating, protective from moisture, mechanical damage - paint, polymer;
  • edge – end processing. Euro edge – straight, figured;
  • manufacturer's certificate with information about the materials used in production.

Frame, mount

Moisture-resistant materials – plastic, stainless steel. Simple, high-quality fastening - large sizes, heavy frames.

Lamp type, switch

LED, halogen or incandescent lamps. Switching on is carried out by a button, sensor, or remote control.

Additional accessories

Shelves, cabinets, sockets, functions - heating, clock, music via Bluetooth.

1. Ikea wall-mounted makeup mirror with lighting

Review

If you're on the hunt for a backlit mirror that can be mounted on your favorite wall, this is for you! It's easy to install and comes with all the screws and anchors you'll need. It has a touch sensor and a dimmer switch at the bottom to give you complete control over your lighting. Thanks to its launch pad, it can also be placed in your bathroom and it will stay there forever.

pros

  • led lights
  • Energy saving
  • Smooth
  • Comes with touch sensor and dimmer

Minuses

  • Dear

Main characteristics of our mirrors:

— Mirror cloth MNGE Ecological (regular mirror cloth) and MNGE ClearVision (lightened mirror cloth) from AGC, the world's leading manufacturer of sheet glass and mirrors (More about regular and clarified mirrors). The thickness of the mirror sheet is selected based on the size of the mirror. AGC mirrors have increased moisture resistance compared to mirrors from other manufacturers.

— The thickness of the mirror sheet together with the aluminum frame is 30 mm, in the standard assembly version, taking into account the thickness of the mirror sheet is 4 mm. Minimum thickness of a mirror on an aluminum frame = 25 mm.

— Power: 220V, then the power supply transforms to 12/24V. All electrical wiring and power supplies are located behind the mirror. All you need is a 220V outlet from the wall, preferably in the center of the mirror.

— The backlight power consumption in the mirror, as standard, is calculated based on 9.6 W per 1 linear meter of backlight.

— The degree of illumination (backlight brightness) is calculated as standard based on 750-800 Lumens per linear meter of illumination, this is enough to make it comfortable to be in the bathroom even when the main lighting is turned off, and the backlight does not blind the eyes.

— The ends of the frame are covered with white or black PVC plastic, in order to hide all the fasteners and the mirror fits closely to the wall. We also produce mirror ends (more on this below).

Xiaomi makeup mirror with light

This 10x magnification mirror is guaranteed to enhance your makeup routine. Whether you pluck your eyebrows or wear contact lenses, this gives you all the precision you need. Equipped with circular light, natural white light assists makeup application to reflect true colors without shadow.

You can also adjust your angle with its 360° swivel. Install it anywhere on a flat surface. It is also portable and compact, making it easy to carry anywhere.

pros

  • 10x magnification
  • Adjustable Angle
  • Travel-friendly
  • Daylight

Minuses

  • A little small

Wall mirror with lighting and magnification for makeup JiBen LED

Review

JIBEN'S LED Lighted Magnifying Mirror comes with gorgeous chrome accents, a white body and a sleek battery compartment. It gives you 10x magnification, making it ideal for detailed makeup and grooming applications. Its bright daylight LED light helps you achieve a professional makeup finish and is also energy efficient. It can be easily mounted anywhere and rotates a full 360° so you can get your angles just right.

pros

  • Accessible
  • 10x magnification
  • Portable
  • Great design

Minuses

  • Small

Double-sided mirror with LED lighting BEAUTY GALLERY, USB, 4xAA, d=15.5cm, magnification

This wireless magnifying mirror comes with a travel bag and a pouch for its batteries, making it great for your trips. 7x magnification allows you to view your entire face for flawless makeup application and care. It's battery powered, so you won't have the hassle of searching for the Switch every time you need to use it. It has a natural warm light.

pros

  • Easy installation
  • 7X magnification
  • Managed Battery
  • Comes with a soft travel bag

How to fix a mirror

The mirror itself is attached to the table in different ways. Most often with self-tapping screws with plastic washers.

They are soft enough and will not press the mirror with force, which could cause it to crack.

Professionals glue the mirror.

Secret No. 19 In this case, only transparent glue is used and it is specially designed for mirrors.

Other brands, of course, will also hold, but ask mirror makers and they will tell you how other glue compositions eat up amalgam in literally six months. Amalgam is what is used to coat the back of the mirror.

But even with gluing, additional fixation will not hurt.

Secret No. 20 Just don’t use hard metal corners for this.

As mentioned above, with damp boards the frame begins to move over time. And if you fasten it tightly, your mirror may crack.

Large table mirror with lighting for makeup Leroy Merlin

Review

The mirror has three and comes with a super bright 36-piece panel lighting. It also has two additional magnification levels for detailed makeup, perfect eyebrow plucking and blackhead removal. It comes with 1x, 2x and 3X magnification mirrors. It is also lightweight and compact, making it convenient for travel. You can either plug it into a power outlet or use AAA batteries.

pros

  • Portable and easy to use
  • Various magnification levels
  • Works with both power cable and batteries
  • Accessible

Minuses

  • Not very strong

Conair Double Sided Round Table Mirror with Light

Review

Looking for an old school oval mirror? This sleek design from Conair is all you need. However, its lighting is not ideal if you want precise makeup application. It produces a soft halo illumination that leaves an incandescent glow so you won't be able to spot mistakes too easily. The mirror is flexible and can be adjusted to the angle that suits you.

pros

  • Polished mirror chrome finish
  • Classic oval shape
  • 7X magnification
  • Affordable

Minuses

  • Gives a warm glow that doesn't reflect makeup's true colors

Suitable interior styles

Mirrors with built-in lighting are not a universal component for all interior styles, but such products look very organic and eye-catching in some areas.

  • The art deco concept allows for the presence of oval, round or rectangular mirrors with discreet light lighting.

  • In the loft style, where the shape of the light bulb itself is an important component of the attic concept, tall mirrors equipped with incandescent lamps as outdoor lighting are popular.

  • Lighting is an important attribute of mirrors in rooms decorated in high-tech style. The understated concept is usually highlighted with a neon glow along the contours of mirrors of various sizes.

  • The fusion style allows for the presence of round mirrors and even elements in the form of colored LED strips or decorative lighting on the mirror surface.

  • The retro trend welcomes side exterior lighting of mirrors using large-sized lamps. Most often, such rectangular mirrors can be seen on a table or dressing table.

Colored lighting of mirror surfaces is popular for techno style. Juicy neon or acidic shades will fit very organically into this concept.

Best Cosmetic Mirror with Lighted Makeup HotLife LED

Reviews

This portable lighted mirror is so compact that you can carry it in your purse. It comes with 8 dimmable Lights and 2 mirrors – polished glass and a 2x magnification mirror. It's incredibly easy to use and perfect for the office, travel, or when you're outdoors. You only need two batteries to turn it on, and you have full control over its light intensity thanks to the touchscreen power button.

pros

  • Travel-friendly
  • Fits in your wallet
  • Natural light
  • Budget price

Minuses

  • Minimum magnification

Reign Charm Illuminated Wall Mirror

Reviews

Technology is incredible. She makes our life much easier and more fun! This mirror comes with Bluetooth-controlled audio speakers so you can get ready while dancing to your favorite tunes. It is made with a solid wood frame and comes with 12 dimmable light bulbs. You can also mount it on the wall or place it on a flat surface. If you're looking for an old fashioned Hollywood vanity style, this is it!

pros

  • Includes dual USB and power outlets
  • Easy to install
  • Perfect size
  • High quality

Minuses

  • Dear

Selecting lighting configurations

You can organize mirror illumination in various ways:

Wall lights


Installing wall lamps (sconces, spotlights) next to the mirror is the easiest option to do the lighting yourself. To implement it, it is enough to mount two lamps on the wall on both sides closer to the top. Well suited for a hallway mirror or a stationary dressing room mirror mounted on the wall. Does not require making a frame or framework.

Among the disadvantages of this solution, the only one worth noting is that it is difficult to achieve uniform distribution of the light flux for a dressing room mirror in this way. But the use of spotlights (transformable lamps on hinged or flexible bases) has an undeniable advantage - with them it is easy to provide maximum illumination of any area.

Lamps (point sources) around the perimeter

An excellent option for a make-up mirror - it allows you to achieve uniform illumination at the desired light intensity. It is necessary to manufacture a frame or outer frame to install the sources. This may also be an additional advantage - the mirror becomes a noticeable detail of the interior.

Before making the frame/frame, you should correctly calculate the number and power of lamps. The initial data for the calculation are:

  1. Required level of illumination. This is especially true for a dressing room mirror, for which the maximum comfortable level is 400 Lx (1 Lx = 1 Lm/1 m2).
  2. Mirror area.
  3. Power and type of light sources.

So, with an area of ​​the mirror (and, accordingly, the illuminated area) of 1 m2, a source with a light output of 400 Lm will be required. When using incandescent lamps with a conversion efficiency of 10 LmW, the resulting total power is 40 W.

The optimal arrangement of lamps is uniform, on three sides - two sides and the top. Accordingly, if we provide for the installation of 6 lamps, the power of a single source will be required about 6 W, if 9 - 4 W. You can find such 3.5 and 5 W lamps in any electrical goods store.

Expert opinion

Yakovlev Alexey Sergeevich

Electrician with 20 years of experience and extensive experience

Practical note! Manufacturers of professional make-up mirrors with lighting recommend using 3.5 W lamps for home use at a distance to the mirror of 40-60 cm. The source should be positioned evenly, the distance between the lamps should be 20-40 cm.

When selecting other light sources, the power is recalculated accordingly.

Illumination from the back of the mirror

This option became popular with the advent of LEDs and LED strips on wide sale. Compact light sources allow them to be placed behind a mirror surface, providing the necessary illumination with minimal dimensions of the entire device.

The only requirement for the design is the manufacture of a frame on the back side for attaching devices. It can be made from a lightweight aluminum profile or wood of small width, sufficient for attaching a strip or discrete LEDs (it will also serve as a heat sink). As a rule, the required width does not exceed 10 mm,

The only difficulty for the home craftsman is to ensure that light penetrates through the mirror. To do this, you will have to remove part of the protective and reflective layer, for example, along the perimeter of the canvas. The best option for processing is a sandblasting machine, which will allow you to quickly remove layers over an area of ​​the required size.

You can also use chemicals for this - paint removers, solvents, acids (for example, oxalic, sulfuric or nitric). However, working with these substances is hazardous to health and requires strict safety measures. It is much easier and cheaper, if there is no sandblasting at home, to contact the same glass workshop.

Interesting note! If you remove only the protective layer without touching the reflective layer, when the backlight is turned off, there will be no noticeable changes in the properties of the mirror. But when the sources are turned on, light will freely penetrate through the mirror. This method is used to create “smart mirrors”, mirror screens, for example, for TVs or decorative mirror canvases with complex patterns.

Smart makeup mirror with light iHome

Review

Did you know smart mirrors exist? This phone from iHome not only has Bluetooth connectivity and a built-in microphone, but can also be used to connect to your phone's assistant. Plus, you can charge your phone with just one power booster! 7x9 magnification with bright natural light.

pros

  • Easy to use
  • Very functional
  • Travel-friendly
  • Inexpensive

Minuses

  • Without magnifying mirror

Illuminated mirror “My Fold Mirror” JG-988″

This makeup mirror is equipped with bright LED natural light. Its soft light ring will not harm your eyes and distributes light evenly on your face. It comes with 5x magnification and 360° articulation to help you adjust the angle. There are two ways to supply power, either plug it into an outlet or use batteries. This is also a great gift idea!

pros

  • Easy to maintain
  • Travel-friendly
  • Accessible
  • Ice lighting

Minuses

  • No dimmer

Table mirror with light for makeup Chende Hollywood

Reviews

This tabletop mirror design will definitely add personality to your room decor. Its frame is made of high quality aluminum with a wooden base. It comes with 14 lighting beads that will enhance your makeup. You can also adjust the light intensity with the included switch.

pros

  • LED lightening
  • High quality
  • Easy to set up
  • Inexpensive

Minuses

  • Not suitable for travel

Mirror with LED lighting for makeup Herwiss

Review

This tri-fold makeup mirror has 10x magnification and is ideal for perfect eyeliner, eyeshadow and foundation application or your beauty routine. It comes with 16 LED lights that give you soft, natural light. You get dual power supply and it's travel-friendly.

pros

  • Operates on batteries and USB
  • Compact
  • LED lightening

Minuses

  • Lighting is not adjustable

Now that you have a fair idea about lighted makeup mirrors, here are some pointers to keep in mind before making a purchase.

Features of cosmetic mirrors

Before you make a mirror with light bulbs, you need to get acquainted with the original designs and find out what materials are used to make them. The second stage is choosing a suitable model and determining the exact dimensions.

The concept of such illuminated mirrors was developed back in 1927. Such products were considered a luxury item and were placed in prestigious hotels. Who were these interior elements intended for? First of all, for people with poor vision. The light bulbs installed along the perimeter of the frame became a salvation for many: they made it possible to apply makeup and shave without the slightest problem, and put clothes in order before going out.

These designs have long been “mastered” and loved by representatives of creative professions - actors, singers, musicians, dancers, etc. Now the production of models for home use has been launched: mirrors with light bulbs have long ceased to be something unusual, an unattainable dream. However, on the way to the desired goal, one obstacle often arises - its unreasonably high price. Therefore, many craftsmen decide to inquire about how to make a mirror with light bulbs with their own hands.

Before you get started, you need to choose the best item. There are two examples to copy.

  1. Models with internal lighting. This is a mirror framed in a baguette, along the perimeter of which a luminous square is visible. They are not "mirrors with light bulbs".
  2. Interior items with external lighting. They use a different approach: spotlights are built directly into a frame made of wood. These are the products that are used for makeup.

However, choosing the type of lighting is not the only thing you will have to think about before starting to prepare for work. There are a few more important points.

Tips for choosing a lighted makeup mirror

Lighting is perhaps the most significant factor when it comes to applying makeup flawlessly. We recommend choosing a mirror that simulates natural light.

  • Avoid mirrors with warm or yellow lights because they will make you look bad no matter how you apply your makeup.
  • Not only do LED white bulbs save energy, but they will also last much longer than regular bulbs. It's a win-win!
  • Consider the placement of your mirror before choosing one. If you are going to place it on a flat surface, choose one with a smaller base. If you want to stick with a wall mount, make sure it has an adjustable arm. This way you can apply your makeup in different positions.
  • If you want your mirror to accompany you on your travels, try choosing a compact and portable vanity mirror.
  • If you're heading out for the night, you might want to dim the lights to see if your makeup still looks great in that particular lighting.

Your makeup mirror is more important than you think. If you are going to invest in expensive cosmetics and makeup products, you may also want to make sure that you have the right mirror to enhance your appearance.

Moreover, your lighted makeup mirror is not only a functional tool, but it will also add beauty to your home decor. This was our review of the 12 best lighted makeup mirrors. Which one would you choose? Let us know in the comments section below.

Choosing a board for a dressing room mirror - dimensions, material

Many people use ordinary pine boards, which are freely sold in Leroy Merlin. It is the most popular material.

Secret No. 1

When purchasing it, pay special attention to the knots.

There should be a minimum number of them, and they should be located in such places that they do not interfere with drilling holes for light bulb sockets.

Secret No. 2

However, for a higher quality product, professionals recommend using furniture panels.

This is what the use of pine boards leads to.

Over time, you are bound to develop cracks. First of all, this will happen on the back side of the frame.

This happens because the board is initially raw. When moisture begins to leave it, the tree bursts. And this is a natural process.

In our Russian climate, finding dry wood is a very big problem.

But the main evil of damp pine is different - the wood will warp and deform as it dries.

Accordingly, the mirror will begin to bend. This is where small and fat people appear in the reflection.

If you have no choice, then at least wait a while until the pine board dries out. Do not assemble the mirror immediately after purchasing the wood.

See how she behaves, and only then get to work.

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