Rustic Live Edge Mirror

Introduction

Amidst the joy of last Christmas, a delightful surprise for our daughter unfolded - a charming small pool table. However, as the room embraced this new addition, a creative itch took hold, inspiring me to elevate the space further. Join me in this detailed narrative as we delve into the meticulous craftsmanship of a rustic live-edge elm mirror, designed to enhance the ambiance surrounding our pool table area.

Choosing Quality Live Edge

The journey commenced with a visit to Clean Slab Customs in Celina, Texas. Here, amidst an array of stunning elm slabs, each rich in character with cracks, bug holes, and knots, I found the perfect raw materials for my envisioned rustic masterpiece. Opting for authenticity, I deliberately eschewed epoxy, allowing the natural imperfections to emerge and define the personality of my handcrafted live edge accent mirror.

Detailed Design and Preparation

Bringing these unique slabs into my garage, the meticulous process of selection unfolded. Each slab had a story, and I dedicated ample time to deciding which would be the perfect canvas for the mirror and bench. As the mirror design took shape in my mind, I undertook the delicate task of cutting the slab in the middle, ensuring the live edge would be showcased inward. The goal was a harmonious balance, carefully considering symmetry and preserving the natural beauty of the wood, including the captivating knots.

Precision and Perfection

The strategic placement of the pool table near the front door presented a challenge — the mirror would be a prominent focal point for anyone entering. With a deliberate focus on precision and perfection, I approached each step of the build with the utmost care. While perfection might be an elusive goal, the dedicated pursuit of excellence was evident in the creation of a mirror that not only served a functional purpose but also stood as an aesthetically pleasing testament to craftsmanship.

Secure Mirror without Epoxy

The journey continued with the challenge of securely attaching the mirror to the live edge slabs. Departing from conventional methods involving glue or epoxy, I opted for a methodical approach. Carefully routing grooves on both live-edge slabs, I created a secure embrace for the mirror. Hardwood strips, meticulously affixed with screws, ensured a robust connection on the top and bottom. Addressing the sides involved a different strategy, with small pieces of wood firmly attached using CA glue, completing the comprehensive attachment of the mirror to the slabs.

Wall Mounting Considerations

As the mirror build progressed, mounting it on the wall became a contemplative process. While French cleats were considered, the prospect of a cleaner look led me to an alternative approach. Bolts meticulously affixed to the studs, a routed groove on the mirror's top side, and a flush mount against the wall became the chosen method. Despite the security offered by French cleats, a conscious decision prioritized aesthetics, leaving the door open for adjustments in the future if needed.

Conclusion

Embarking on the journey of crafting a rustic live-edge elm mirror and bench not only added aesthetic allure to our home but also unfolded into a fulfilling DIY odyssey. This narrative is an invitation for those seeking a detailed guide, emphasizing the delicate balance between functionality and artistic expression. In the pursuit of timeless elegance, this endeavor stands as a testament to the beauty found in imperfections and the joy derived from crafting something truly unique.

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Build Videos

Power tools & hand tools

Power tools

55" Track Saw Guide Rail for Festool - https://amzn.to/3NmCP1h

Festool track saw - https://amzn.to/41iGOlb

Festool 491594 Quick Clamp - https://amzn.to/41dgAAN

6 inch Festool Rotex Sander - Festool 576028 Multi-Mode Sander RO 150 - https://amzn.to/3NkFl8v

6-inch Festool Random orbital Sander -FESTOOL ETS 150/5 EQ-Plus - https://amzn.to/3uQhWFs

Festool 575306 Kapex Sliding Compound Miter Saw - https://amzn.to/48bWuJy

F2 Fusion Tablesaw - https://amzn.to/4abUaE2

Festool 577084 CT 36 E HEPA Dust Extractor - https://amzn.to/4agjdWm

DEWALT Thickness Planer - https://amzn.to/41khICO

DEWALT Planer Stand with Integrated Mobile Base - https://amzn.to/3tdYgek

Bosch Plunge Router & Fixed Base - https://amzn.to/4ahCkzp

Bosch Random Orbital Sander - https://amzn.to/3tkK3vX

Milwaukee's Cordless Compact Router - https://amzn.to/41f48Ay

Milwaukee Cordless Hammer Drill/Impact Driver Combo Kit - https://amzn.to/41j8nLa

Countersink Drill Bit Set - https://amzn.to/47OtLKJ

RYOBI ONE+ HP 18V Brushless Cordless 4-1/2 in - https://amzn.to/3GzZ00g

Angle Grinder Sanding Discs - https://amzn.to/47QkjXw

Freud 8" inch Pro Dado Set - https://amzn.to/4ahqJRc

Freud 3/4" inch Top Bearing Flush Trim Bit Red - https://amzn.to/4afmK7t

CMT General Purpose Saw Blade, 10-inch x 40 Teeth - https://amzn.to/3Rd3leR

Hand tools

Empire 48 in. Drywall T-Square - https://www.homedepot.com/p/Empire-48-in-Drywall-T-Square-410-48/202035306

6 inch Combination Square - https://amzn.to/3GVVqxT

Jorgensen 6" Spreader/Bar Clamps - https://amzn.to/4ae1mzu

FastCap 16 Foot Pro Carpenter Standard Reverse Measuring Tape - https://amzn.to/46XbVEe

MICROJIG GRR-RIPPER GR-100 3D Table Saw Pushblock, Yellow - https://amzn.to/3NldOna

12 Speed Square - https://amzn.to/3RjjpeU

Setup Blocks Height Gauge Set, 15pcs Precision Aluminum Setup Bars - https://amzn.to/3RycP5A

Rustic Live Edge Mirror - DIY
Rustic Live Edge Mirror - DIY
Rustic Live Edge Mirror - DIY
Rustic Live Edge Mirror - DIY