Mirror Frame Pt. 1: Design, Half-Laps, Assembly, & Curves

Watch our latest video : "From Old Firehouse to Woodworking Wonderland | Shop Tour 2024"
To download FREE plans for this project, head to our website:

We recently had a little work done in our bathroom and in the process we removed the large wall-spanning mirrors. Being the superhero husband I am I immediately promised Nicole that I would replace them with a couple of nice framed mirrors. A record-setting six months later (which is at least a year ahead of schedule by my clock), here we are building the frames.

This is the first in a two-part series covering the design and construction of a simple mirror frame.

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[AndrewKleinWW]

Such a treat to get this level of detail from you for free. You instruction has helped me so much in my woodworking journey, thanks a million!

[captsteve]

I love that you went back to longer more detailed videos. Your "slow down" approach is very much appreciated. Keep up the great work.

[jeffreyovens]

I really like the level of detail in what on the surface is a very simple project. I am a fan of half-lap joinery, but have never thought of that trick of leaving an extra 1/16" for clamping purposes. I'm glad to see the free offerings return to this more detailed style. Hopefully I'll be a paying customer in the near future!

[coreyward]

I really enjoyed the pace of this; sometimes I like build videos because they're a little zen, but they can be hit or miss on whether I learn anything. A walk through project like this, where things are explained and discussed, but not belabored, strikes a great balance between education and entertainment. Can't wait to watch part 2!

[derkwichhart]

Woodworking with The Wood Whisperer Thank you for all of the time and effort put into your videos!

[thiswoodwork]

Really great video Marc. It's been a while since I've sat through a "longer" woodworking video and this went by in a flash. The mark of quality content! Looking forward to part 2.

[michaelschatzman]

Marc - Thanks for the time you obviously put into this video. Also appreciate that you include what happens AFTER the cut/route is done, ie how one then sands, smooths, and planes. There is a dearth of woodworking videos that show that part, most just gloss over and assume viewers alreadh have that knowledge. I think many viewers would benefit from seeing the sanding and planing techniques in action. Thanks!

[teachwren]

Loved the pace of this video.  It felt much shorter than 20 minutes.  The attention to detail was superb.  The difference in this and other "long" videos that people say they don't like is that you were consistently teaching something different: how to sneak up on the cut, what type of plane to use, how to avoid tear-out, etc.  The "boring" 20 minute videos are ones where a guy shows every single cut, every single sanding stroke, etc.  Thanks for the quality.

[Masterofne]

I really like your mixture of old and new tools that you use. Too many people are one way or the other. Great video!

[GhostPhriek]

I'm just starting to get into woodworking, and your videos have been great! Now you're doing a show wearing a Triforce t-shirt. Best channel ever.

[dlennertzdl]

Excellent work! The curve on top is subtle yet it adds a lot to the overall "theme" of the mirror. Thanks Mark!

[mrconner]

Great job Marc!! Definitely glad to see you kicking it old school. These are the quality of videos that got me started in woodworking

[matt_williams]

Great video, I enjoy the details that you provide.  Your videos never seem long, for me you provide just the right amount of explanation, so I hope you continue the detailed explanations. Looking forward to part 2!

[SwallowForge]

Really enjoyed watching this Marc. I'm sat with my 8 week old daughter and she seems to find your voice very soothing. Top quality content and production as always. All the best. Alex.

[partom]

Man, it's awesome to see this level of content return to the free site! It's what got me to join the guild and invest in the hobby. Love it!

[MakeSomething]

Drum off! Chad vs Will! Also sweet project!

[BradleyMakesThings]

Really loved this video Marc! The sped up videos are good fillers for when I can't be out in the shop myself, but I've always loved your teaching style! Been watching your stuff for years.

[ealywill]

Marc, I feel like the quality of my own work ebs and flows with the quality of work in the videos I watch. Your attention to detail gets replicated in my own work. I for one really appreciate the level of quality instruction in your videos. I'm still trying to save my pennies to afford the split top lumber and hardware but I'm excited for when that day finally comes.

[triviaguy]

Thank you. I really enjoyed the longer more detailed format.

[DavidBishopinc]

Nice. Good to see you pop out some free content again. You were one of the first woodworking youtube channels I stumbled across, (in late 2012), that inspired me to get back into some hobby woodworking, (after about 20 years). I heard you mention in your podcast, (which is also some easy listening), about video styles. Not everyone can pull off a quality video of value, with out verbally rambling on and repeating them selves. Must be a gift. LOL Your are easy to watch and listen to. Id like to see more but unfortunately, I cant financially justify getting involved with the guild. Keep up the awesome work. Looking forward to seeing more. Thanks!