How to Make a hologram With Mirrors?

Halloween is almost upon us! In some communities, the whole month of October has turned into a Halloween extravaganza! It’s such a fun time to decorate and celebrate. Do you host a big party and go all out decorating your home inside and out? Do you like to scare your family and friends?

I like to create an unexpected surprise—something that causes guests to do a double take. An altered mirror does just that.

You will want to start with a large mirror—one that can replace the mirror in your powder room or foyer since everyone wants to check their costume makeup before and during the party. I found this one at a resale shop for a few dollars. It’s a lightweight plastic and measures 30 in. x 18 in.

The arched frame gives it a spooky, gothic look, especially after I painted it black.

First, remove the frame from the mirror. I used a flat black spray paint to cover up the original burgundy color. Allow it to dry thoroughly and set aside.

You will also need a spooky holograph portrait. (It’s really called a lenticular print—when two images appear to transform into each other) Choose one with a formal, Victorian character that turns into a corpse or skull.

Working from the back side of the mirror, remove the grey back-paint with a scraper knife with a sharp blade. Scrape away an area that’s smaller than the picture.

It’s virtually impossible to remove the silver mirror backing with a knife. I found, with a little elbow grease, that a Sander-Deglosser liquid works just fine. Pour a small amount onto the area, allow it to sit for 20-30 minutes, and wipe off with a fine steel wool pad.

Be sure to read the instructions on the bottle before you begin and work in a well-ventilated area. You might have to repeat until you are satisfied with the results. Don’t remove all the silver. The goal is to have it look old and spooky.

After you’ve removed the silver, wipe the back clean with soapy water. Lay the hologram over the open spot and hold it in place with duct tape. Reattach the frame.

Hang it near the front door or in the bathroom! I added even spider webbing and a giant spider to mine. My guests will be surprised to find a creepy skeleton face peering back at them!

Interior designer Merri Cvetan writes about her home craft projects, including creepy Halloween mirrors, for The Home Depot. To view this year's online Halloween collection at Home Depot, you can visit the company's website.

Merri Cvetan

Merri's weekly column for Amazing Goodwill and her design blog, Design Coach, are about all things design, living a stylish life and entertaining. She shares DIY projects, decorating and design tips, as well as ideas and secrets.