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How to Make a LED Light Mirror?

Table of Contents

Whether it be tired of struggling with poor lighting during morning routine or looking to add modern elegance. Ceating your own mirror with led light may be easier than you think!

led light mirrors for gril bathroom
led light mirrors for gril bathroom

As someone with years of experience manufacturing and installing LED mirrors. I have guided both sanitary ware brand and interior designers alike through the process of producing beautiful yet functional lighting solutions.

I will share my expertise on how you can build your own LED mirrors from scratch. Even if you’re starting from scratch. Creating DIY projects allows you to meet all of your specifications. Such as: size, light intensity, color temperature, design elements. All tailored specifically to you and your space.

Types of LED Light mirrors

Front Light Mirror: LED strips are installed on the front surface of mirror. Usually around the perimeter of the mirror. Providing uniform illumination and suitable for makeup and grooming.

Backlit mirror: light strips are installed on the back of mirror. Generate a glowing halo effect at the edge. Soft and atmospheric lighting adds a sense of three dimensionality to your space.

Edge-Lit Mirrors: LED lights are embedded at the edges of the mirror itself. Using diffusion technology to evenly distribute light onto its surface, creating a charming modern aesthetic.

lighted mirrors with led
lighted mirrors with led

Advantages of Mirrors with Led Lights

Energy saving:

Long lifespan:

High quality lights strip have a lifespan of up to 50000h. If calculated based on 8 hours of daily use, the lifespan exceeds 17 years.

CRV>90:

LED lights provide more accurate color rendering (measured by CRI or color rendering index). Allowing you to experience authentic colors is crucial for makeup and dressing.

Uniform lighting:

LED mirrors can provide uniform lighting, with light evenly distributed on the face. Eliminate glaring shadows that may distort the appearance.

Essential Materials and Tools for DIY LED Mirror Projects

Constructing custom led full length or vanity mirrors takes specific materials and tools. Below is my experience working with custom installations:

prepare diy lighted mirrors materials
prepare diy lighted mirrors materials

Core Materials

Mirror:

Choose a high-quality mirror that fits your desired size and shape. Beginners can start with pre cut mirrors. Purchase from a glass store or home decor store. Purchase a copper free silver back mirror.

LED Strips:

  • SMD 5050 or 2835 LED strips (12V or 24V).
  • For bathroom use waterproof rating of at least IP65.
  • Choose 3 adjustable colors, from 3000k-6000k.
  • CRV>90 to ensure accurate colors.

Power Supply:

Keep the same voltage and wattage as the LED strip

Back Panel:

Cut 1/2″ or 3/4″ plywood or MDF board. To the size of the mirror or slightly larger. For bathroom use, moisture proof is required.

Diffusers (optional, for backlit mirrors):

  • Acrylic diffuser panels
  • Frosted plexiglass
  • Light diffusion film

Essential Tools

Electrical Tools:

  • Wire stripper/cutter
  • Soldering iron and lead-free solder (for connecting LED strips)
  • Heat shrink tubing for wire connections
  • Multimeter for testing

Cutting and Mounting Tools:

  • Circular saw or jigsaw (for cutting backing board)
  • Drill and drill bits
  • Screwdriver set
  • Measuring tape and level

Adhesives and Fasteners:

  • Mirror adhesive (specifically designed for mirror installation)
  • Double-sided tape for securing LED strips
  • Wood screws for frame construction
  • Silicone sealant for bathroom applications

Safety Equipment

  • Safety glasses
  • Work gloves (cut-resistant for handling mirror)
  • Circuit tester
  • GFCI protected outlet for bathroom installations

Step-by-Step Guide to Creating Your Own LED Mirror

Now that you understand the basic principles and have collected materials for creating your own led mirrors with lights, let’s walk through each step in creating one yourself from start to finish. My method has been refined over multiple installations so as to be accessible even for novice DIYers.

Step 1: Planning and Prep

Set mirror placement height
select LED placement options (front lit, back lit or edge lit)
Preparing well-lit space

Step 2: Preparing the Backing Board

Create your backing board according to the dimensions you require (either exactly matching that of your mirror, or larger for border effects).

Measure and mark the position of each edge 2-3 inches, use a saw to cut off the middle part, leaving only the frame. Polish all edges smooth to prevent damage to the LED light strip.

Drill installation holes in advance and fix the mirror on the wall

If the backboard is exposed to humid environments, such as bathroom installations, please apply a layer of sealant or paint on the backboard.

install led light strip
install led light strip

Step 3: Installing the LED Strips

Step 4: Mounting the Mirror 

For Frontlit mirrors: Apply mirror adhesive to the back panel, carefully place the mirror and press it evenly. During the curing period of the adhesive, temporarily fix it with tape.

Backlit mirror: Install shims around the back frame and place the mirror on the shims.

welding electrical appliances route
welding electrical appliances route

Step 5: Circuit connection and testing

Connect the power supply to the LED strip according to the manufacturer’s wiring diagram.

Thoroughly test before final installation:

Check all connections
Verify that the illumination of all light strips is uniform
Test any intelligent function or control

Step 6: Final installation

Find the wall where the mirror needs to be installed and securely mount the back panel to the wall.

Use a level to ensure that the mirror is flush to prevent uneven force and falling. Secure it to the wall stud or anchor with suitable screws

Connect the power supply: Plug the power cord into a live socket. Please ensure that the wires are neatly managed and safe.

wall mounted led light mirror
wall mounted led light mirror

Common Issues in Mirrors with Lights Installation

Q1: Why is the lighting uneven or has dark spots?

A: The uneven illumination of the LED mirror is caused by inconsistent spacing between the light strips or damaged LED. LED light strips should maintain uniform spacing. Replace the damaged LED light strip section.

Q2: Why do the lights flash?

A: Sometimes the power supply is unstable or the wiring is not properly connected. You can check all the places where the wires are connected. If there are loose joints, then re-weld.

Q3: Why does the lights mirror always slide down or tilt?

Maybe the glue has been stuck for too long and won’t stick anymore. When installing, if the two sides are not aligned, the mirror will be subjected to uneven force, which can easily loosen over time.

Q4: Why is there water vapor behind the LED mirror?

A: It is easy for water vapor to remain between the mirror and the back panel. If the mirror is installed in the bathroom, you can choose a smart mirror with anti-fog heating function, so you don’t have to worry about fogging.

Q5: Why is the LED light not working?

It may be due to a poorly connected cable, a faulty power supply, or a problem with the light strip itself. You can use a multimeter to test the circuit to see if the voltage is normal, and also check if the positive and negative poles are reversed.

custom led lighted mirrors
custom led lighted mirrors

Conclusion

david

I’m David!

From Shein Mirror. I am a LED Mirrors Expert in this field for more than 15 years. We offer competitive mirrors from China. Customize your illuminated mirrors solution now!

Have questions? Reach out to us, Customize your illuminated mirrors solution!

Best Regards, Sam, Co-Founder