‘Popcorn Ceiling’ texture has officially reincarnated as a trend.
(Madeline Murphy / Rowdy Magazine Online Writer)
I’ll admit, when foam mirrors first started showing up on my socials, I wasn’t the biggest fan. The chunky, messy aesthetic was just a little too weird for my taste. However, I think if you look at anything long enough, you’ll eventually see the appeal. Kind of like bucket hats or biker shorts. When they began to dominate nearly every apartment décor board you follow, you can’t help but cave. Damn you, Pinterest.
The design originated from Gustaf Westman, whose work is ridiculously dreamy. It’s a touch of Art Deco and a sprinkle of the ‘90s — so basically heaven. Every piece looks like abstract art, and I’m trying to feel like I live in the MoMA.
According to the internet and multiple YouTubers, this is supposedly the perfect DIY project. Although it looks super advanced in my opinion, I wanted to put it to the test and see if I could recreate the look on some old mirrors. Here’s my experience:
For starters, this ended up being surprisingly affordable. I already had some mirrors that I was looking to repurpose, and all you need besides that are gloves, a bed sheet/piece of cardboard and the expanding foam. Paint is optional but definitely takes your DIY baby to the next level, just saying.
(One of the before the expanding foam was added. / Madeline Murphy, Rowdy Magazine Online Writer)
*Side note: nearly every tutorial I could find used full-length, massive mirrors but I don’t have the facilities for that. So, if you’re like me and want to recreate the vibe on a smaller scale, it can be done. Additionally, there’s no need to splurge on a mirror. I suggest checking second-hand locations like your local Goodwill.
I would say the most challenging part of this entire process was going to Lowe’s, and that’s honestly just because I don’t get out much these days.
After my mini-haul, I set up shop in my garage with the door up. (Be sure to use the expanding foam in an open space, because those fumes are hella toxic.) I had gathered some pictures for inspo prior to starting, so I generally knew the shapes I wanted to create.
Here was my favorite:
( Skum spejl / Pintrest)
After shaking the can vigorously, I went for it without thinking about it too hard. No prep or prime necessary. And let me tell you guys, expanding foam is so much fun. It definitely has a mind of its own, but I think that adds to the eclectic nature of the trend.
It’s supposed to dry and harden in about 20 minut this is supposedly the perfect DIY project. Although it looks super-advanced in my opinion, I wanted to put it to the test and see if I could recreate the look on some old mirrors. Here’s my experience: w how to coat the edges without hitting the glass, so if anyone has any tips, send them my way.
Drum roll, please.
(The final results of the two mirrors / Madeline Murphy, Rowdy Magazine Online Writer)
This is the final result and I’m kind of obsessed. It’s giving me whimsical, Rob Wynne realness. After all is said and done, I would definitely recommend giving this DIY a try. Sure, it was a little daunting at first, but it ended up being so doable and cool.
Madeline Murphy is an Online Writer at Rowdy Magazine. She’s currently studying Journalism with a minor in Women’s Studies. Madeline can be found making Apple Music playlists, trying Nigella Lawson recipes and binging SATC. She’s fiercely passionate about social justice and the power of words.
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