How to combine a basic flush mount light and a sunburst mirror to make a custom designer dupe DIY light fixture
We turned an ordinary sunburst mirror into an eye-catching ceiling light for our playroom — a simple, budget-friendly way to get a designer look without the designer price. By pairing a basic flush mount fixture with a sunburst mirror frame, we created a dramatic, whimsical statement piece in roughly two hours. This DIY is ideal for a playroom, nursery, or any room where you want a bold focal point that feels magical and playful.
We wanted something large, whimsical, and statement-making for the room, but didn’t want to spend a small fortune on a single fixture. Combining an affordable flush mount light with a decorative sunburst mirror gave us the look of an expensive custom light for a fraction of the cost. The finished piece reads like a radiant golden flower — my daughter immediately called it “Rapunzel’s flower” — and it ties in beautifully with a fairytale, woodland-inspired playroom vibe.
We switched from a pendant to a flush mount because the room layout is more flexible now and we don’t always have a table directly beneath the light. A flush mount gives better clearance while still allowing the fixture to make a big visual impact.
DIY Light Fixture from a Sunburst Mirror
Supplies
- Sunburst mirror frame (choose a size that fits your ceiling and complements the light fixture)
- Flush mount ceiling light slightly smaller than the mirror’s inner glass circle
- Screwdriver
- Gold spray paint (optional, if the mirror frame needs a base coat)
- Antique Gold Rub n Buff or similar metallic finish
- Small paint brush for detail work
- Stud finder
- 2″ drywall screws for securing the mirror frame to ceiling studs
Steps
- Remove the glass mirror from the sunburst frame. Lay the piece face down and loosen the screws on the back so you can take out the mirror safely.
2. If the frame isn’t already gold or the finish looks uneven, apply a coat of gold spray paint to create uniform coverage. Once dry, use a small amount of Antique Gold Rub n Buff to add depth and dimension — this step brings a richer metallic look that reads like an upscale finish.
If your mirror frame is already an even gold, you can skip the spray paint step and use Rub n Buff only for subtle highlights.
3. Paint any visible metal parts of the flush mount fixture with the same Antique Gold Rub n Buff so the fixture and frame match and appear seamless once installed.
4. Install the flush mount light to the ceiling according to the manufacturer’s instructions. Make sure electrical work is done safely — turn off power at the breaker and, if you’re not comfortable with wiring, hire a licensed electrician.
5. Position the sunburst frame over the installed flush mount. Use a stud finder to locate ceiling joists and secure the mirror frame with 2″ drywall screws driven into studs. Anchoring into studs ensures the decorative frame stays safely in place.
6. With a small paint brush, touch up the gap between the flush mount and the mirror frame using Rub n Buff for a continuous metallic finish. This small detail makes the fixture read as one cohesive piece rather than two separate elements.
When you flip the power back on, your new sunburst light will glow like a golden flower centered in the room. It provides both function and a strong decorative statement without the premium price tag of high-end fixtures.
My daughter’s reaction — “It’s Rapunzel’s flower!” — captured exactly the playful, fairytale feeling the piece brings to the room. This technique opens up creative possibilities: repurpose round decorative mirrors of all styles into custom ceiling fixtures to suit different rooms and décors.
If you’re aiming for a budget-friendly, high-impact lighting update, this sunburst mirror DIY is an efficient, creative solution. It’s a great weekend project, requires basic tools, and transforms ordinary fixtures into something special and memorable.
Related Posts:
- The Best Wireless Lights from Amazon
- Antique Gold Frosted Crystal Light Fixture Makeover
- The Easiest Way to Refresh a Bathroom Vanity Light
- Our Office Lights: Splurge vs. Save Lighting Options