Mirror
Mirror as a reflective material
Mirror reflects the space around it. Its colour, decorative treatment and edges influence both the reflected image and the appearance of the finished surface, whether it is used for everyday viewing or as part of furniture and interiors.
Silver, bronze or blue reflection
Silver mirror is the standard option when everyday viewing is the priority. Bronze gives the reflected scene a warm tone; blue introduces a cooler colour. A coloured mirror changes the appearance of what it reflects, so the choice affects more than the colour of the surface itself.
Compare the three options reflecting the same scene under the same lighting. Include nearby finishes and, where the mirror is for personal use, check the reflection of faces and clothing. This makes the colour difference easier to judge than viewing each sample in isolation.
Sandblasted areas and engraved detail
Sandblasting creates textured, frosted areas that interrupt the clear reflection. A sandblasted border can define the perimeter while leaving the centre available for viewing; wider coverage makes the treatment a larger part of the surface.
Engraving introduces lines or patterned detail. The scale and spacing of those marks determine how the pattern reads across the mirror and how much uninterrupted reflection remains. For a functional mirror, position decoration around the area needed for viewing; for a decorative panel, the pattern may take a more prominent role.
Polished edges and bevelled borders
A flat-polished edge gives the perimeter a finished face without creating a broad decorative border. Rounded edge profiles soften its outline. A bevel slopes across the edge of the mirror, creating a visible border that catches light as the viewing angle changes.
A bevel changes the edge geometry; a sandblasted border changes the surface appearance. They create different effects even when both follow the same outline. The selected edge treatment needs to suit the mirror and the finished application.
Choosing mirror for its setting
For a mirror used at a vanity or dressing area, keep a useful area of clear reflection at the intended viewing position. On a decorative wall or furniture surface, consider what the mirror will reflect: it can bring nearby colours, objects and movement into the composition.
Areas exposed to splashes or frequent handling also need a suitable material specification and care approach. Colour or a decorative border alone does not establish suitability for those conditions.
Browse mirrors to compare finished configurations. For a commissioned piece or fitted surface, Mirror & Glasswork covers the service scope.
Caring for the face and edges
Clean with a soft, clean cloth and a non-abrasive product suitable for the selected mirror and its treatments. Apply cleaning liquid to the cloth rather than flooding the surface, and dry the edges so moisture is not left against them.
Avoid abrasive pads and scraping tools. Around sandblasted or engraved detail, remove dirt gently without polishing or scouring the texture. Follow the care guidance for the actual surface, particularly where decoration or coatings are present.
Projects using Mirror
Explore completed projects that use Mirror and see its role within each setting.
Discuss your mirror material selection
Share the setting you have in mind and whether the mirror is mainly for viewing, decoration or both. We can help you consider colour, reflective area and surface detail.