Build a Mirror Cabinet That Hides Your TV in Plain Sight
Do you wish you could conceal your TV when it's not in use, rather than having it be an eyesore in your living room? Combining furniture and technology, a mirror cabinet TV cover allows you to hide your television in plain sight. With simple carpentry skills and the right materials, you can build your own mirror cabinet that houses a TV behind a stylish, decorative mirror.
We'll cover everything from choosing materials, tools required, dismantling mirrors, building the cabinet frame, installing hidden hinges, applying finishes, and securely mounting your completed project on the wall. Follow along as we transform basic lumber and mirrors into a multifunctional piece of furniture.
Gather Necessary Building Materials
The raw materials needed include:
- Wood - Pine lumber for structural framing and plywood for backing. Pine provides stability while plywood prevents cabinet warping.
- Mirrors - Opt for iron or barn door style mirrors which have thick sturdy frames. This allows neatly cutting the frame in half without shattering the glass.
- Hinges - Continuous or piano hinges allow a full 180-degree swing for easy TV access.
- Hardware - Wood screws, wood glue, drawer pulls, and cabinet door clasps.
- Paint/stain to finish the cabinetry with your desired colors and textures.
Essential Tools for Building the Mirror Cabinet
Assembling the cabinet requires an assortment of tools:
- Saw - A circular or table saw with a fine-toothed blade lets you accurately cut lumber and mirrors.
- Screwdrivers - For driving screws to assemble the cabinet frame.
- Stud finder - To locate wall studs for securely mounting the finished cabinet.
- Sandpaper - For smoothing rough edges and prepping surfaces for painting.
- Safety gear - Protective gloves, goggles, etc.
With the materials and tools gathered, we can start constructing the concealed TV cabinet.
Dismantling the Mirrors
The first step is taking apart the mirror frames. Using a saw carefully cut each frame in half horizontally. Make sure your lines are straight to allow the edges to meet back up cleanly. Gloves are handy for handling the separated mirror pieces. Sand the backs of the frames lightly to remove sharp edges and burrs. Stack the frame halves until needed later during assembly.
Building the Cabinet Frame
With mirrors disassembled, begin constructing the cabinet box starting with the rear frame. Arrange the cut mirror pieces to form a rectangular frame for the backside of the cabinet. The outer dimensions should be slightly smaller than your TV size. Use wood glue and screws to join frame halves together again. Let dry completely.
Cut plywood to size and attach as the cabinet back using screws. Measure and cut pine wood slats for the top and bottom. Glue and screw into place atop the plywood. The top will have an overhang to conceal TV edges when installed later. The basic box frame of the cabinet is now complete.
Mounting Concealed Hinges
Lay the door frame halves face down on a flat surface. Mark hinge locations on the back. Ensure hinges will align with the corresponding marks on the cabinet box frame. Mount continuous hinges using included hardware. Test opening and closing motion - doors should swing smoothly without resistance.
Applying Finishing Touches
Fill any visible screw holes with wood filler for a seamless look. Once dry, thoroughly sand cabinet and doors. While not essential, primer creates a surface for paint to adhere evenly. Apply your choice of color and finish, whether stain, paint or clear coat. Add cabinet door pulls and magnetic clasps to keep the doors flush when closed.
Preparing for Installation
Locate and mark the wall studs where you want the mirror cabinet mounted using a stud finder. Have a helper hold the cabinet in place while you secure to studs using heavy duty screws. Ensure the cabinet is level and firmly supported.
With the cabinet permanently installed, carefully lift and mount your TV on the back panel. Attach cables before sealing it up. Add shelves or storage as desired. When ready for entertainment, simply open the elegant mirrored doors to reveal your hidden TV!
This DIY mirror cabinet provides a stylish solution for concealing unsightly TV's when not in use. Follow the steps outlined to merge decor with technology for an inexpensive weekend project. Customize the build to fit your space and purposes. Add integrated lighting or speakers for upgraded functionality. Get creative with cabinet design to Impress guests with both clever furniture and entertainment options disguised in your mirror TV cover.