Q: I am looking for a French style mirror for my living room. I would like the frame to be fairly plane with some detailing at the top and it needs to measure approximately 100cm width x 80cm height. Rosemary Ashworth.
A: French style mirrors have become increasingly popular and look fantastic in a modern or shabby chic room. You can buy this style of mirror from a few high street shops including Laura Ashley, Next and Marks and Spencer. Another great place to buy one is a company called Scumble Goosie they make bespoke French and Gustavian style furniture. As they make all of their pieces in their own warehouse, you can opt for a particular paint finish.
Another company that sells gorgeous french furniture is called The French Bedroom company. They are slightly more expensive than the high street but any products bought from here could be seen as an investment purchase. Chose from their large selection of mirrors, beds and accessories.
Why not try Virgin Vie at Home for some French style accessories
Try Graham and Green for venetian style mirrors
TIP: You could create your own bespoke mirror for a fraction of the above price by picking up a second hand wooden mirror from a jumble sale, market or charity shop and paint it yourself. You could pick one up for about £30 – £40.
I would suggest sanding the mirror down and painting it with a quick drying wood primer. Then paint with a coat of cream satin paint and once dry, rub the corners, creases and edges with a candle (or any wax equivalent). Finally, paint with a top coat of white paint and the wax will act as a resist, leaving you the illusion of an antique mirror. For the final touch, gently rub down with fine grain sandpaper.
