This article was found on one of the popular blogs, and in order not to violate the integrity, the author’s text is further preserved: wandering through the expanses of Youtube, I came across a fascinating video demonstrating the operation of this simple device. The first impression of viewing was so strong that my hands themselves began to search Google for online stores where they could find out the price and purchase it. The price was not too steep, but there was no interest in buying a ready-made device. After thinking about the device for about 15 minutes, it was decided to assemble it with my own hands...
Search for materials
Ideally, we will need a mirror, mirrored on one side and transparent on the other. Or translucent, because By turning off the device, we have the opportunity to use it as a regular mirror.
Looking ahead, I will say that I chose mirror film from a hardware store.
So we have:
Regular mirror
- Mirror film
- Expanded polystyrene for the body
- Sheet of glass (window)
- Two sheets of sandpaper
- Spatula and putty
- Knife for cutting polystyrene
- Chinese blue garland with 100 LEDs
- Jigsaw
- Glass cutter
- Sucker
Assembly
Cut out a circle from glass. This is done as follows:
We use a glass cutter in a circle, and then from the circle, radially, we cut slots from the circle to the edges. Then we tap all the lines from below with a glass cutter until light cracks appear under the lines. Then we put a towel under the circle and break off the excess with our hands. However, the first time it turned out crooked in one place, I had to redo it. The diameter of the glass decreased from 40 to 35 cm.
It turns out something like this:
We cut the blank for the mirror. Important: cut only from the glass side, never on the silver side.
So now we cut out the body. We take polystyrene, I cut a square out of it and marked the future ring on it.
Then, using a jigsaw and knife, we cut out the ring and mark the first holes for the diodes with a marker. Yes, by the way, the ring (its inner part) is made 1 cm smaller than the mirror, so that the allowance everywhere is 5 mm at the edges. There will be something to glue on in the future.
We make holes for the diodes (I melted them with a soldering iron).
We make another ring, apply the film to the glass
It is not difficult to explain this optical effect theoretically. You can even create an illusory endless tunnel with the help of an ordinary candle: this magic was used by many girls of almost all generations, conducting Christmas rituals of fortune-telling. Due to the multiple reflection of the light source from the real and imaginary surfaces of the mirror, it seemed as if the candle was falling into a tunnel without end or edge. All this can be easily explained in terms of quantum physics.
Infinity mirrors are a wonderful decorative item that can become the main accent in the interior. Most often they are used when decorating commercial premises: nightclubs and bars, cafes, exhibition halls, offices. However, you can decorate your apartment with such an art object. It will look appropriate in a bathroom or hallway made in Gothic or industrial style, with elements of minimalism, pop art or techno.
A mirror with infinite depth can be used not only for its intended purpose, but also as a wall structure with lighting, but also as an element of other furniture. It will become an original tabletop for coffee table, the face of a cubic design, floor decoration and more. This could be full ceiling chandelier or an additional light source.
How to make it yourself
It is not possible to order an LED art object everywhere, but this is not necessary, because making a mirror with an infinity effect with your own hands is not so difficult. All that is needed is to purchase materials, build a frame and assemble the structure according to already ready-made instructions and diagrams. At the final stage it is glued LED Strip Light– and the eye-catching installation is ready.
Required materials and tools
To create an effect infinity mirror you need to prepare materials and tools, namely:
- Two types of mirrors. The first is ordinary, with one-way reflection. The second is glass with a partial mirror effect (plexiglass will also work). They must be the same size.
- Light source. LEDs are the most economical in terms of energy consumption, so it is advisable to stock up on self-adhesive tape.
- A collapsible frame frame for a mirror structure, holding the mirrors at a distance of about 2 cm from each other. If nothing suitable is found, you need to prepare several wooden blocks and silicone sealant for gluing them.
- Sun protection mirror window film. It will create the desired glass tinting effect.
- Tools: scissors, cutter, glue gun, hammer drill or drill.
You will most likely have to make a mirror surface with a partial reflective effect yourself. To do this, you need to cover regular glass with sun-protective reflective window film, having previously cleaned and degreased it. It will be necessary to cut a piece of material so that its area is slightly larger than the glass surface (extends beyond it on all sides).
To apply the film to the glass, you should start from one corner, gradually lubricating the surface liquid soap. It must be constantly ironed to avoid the formation of air bubbles.
There are a number of specific requirements for the light source. Firstly, it should not generate heat. Secondly, be bright enough and not get lost behind the mirror film. Ideal option will become an RGB LED strip. The operating voltage rating should be 24 volts. This is the most optimal solution.
Mirror
Tools
Light source
timber
Frame making
Any frame can become wooden frame appropriate size with a depth of at least 1.3-1.5 cm. You can also make the design yourself. To do this you will need 4 pieces of wood 2 cm wide. Next you need to follow simple instructions:
- The bars are glued directly to the mirror using pre-prepared silicone sealant.
- The made rack frame also needs to be prepared for the output of the wires supplying the light source. To do this, small holes are drilled in it using a drill.
- The slats are glued in stages, one after another, and aligned along the edges of the mirror surface.
If a finished frame is taken as a basis, then tinted glass and an additional smaller internal frame are inserted into it, which will serve as a stop for the inserted mirror. Recesses are made in it for the wire for the LEDs using a cutter (from the back side).
Choose a suitable frame
Prepare glass
Make a hole for the wire
Assembly
To assemble a structure with infinite mirrors, everything should already be ready. Remains only:
- Glue the frame slats to the mirror on its reflective side.
- Attach the RGB LED strip from the inside. To do this, simply pull the power cord through the pre-drilled holes.
- Cut the mirror film to the width of the frame.
- Apply adhesive or the same silicone sealant along the edge frame structure and put glass with a mirror film on top (reflective surface inward).
After this, you need to decide how to make the ends invisible. They can simply be painted over or covered with a U-shaped profile, which can be secured with sealant. As an alternative, a plastic cable duct (without cover) can be used.
Cut film
Apply film to glass
Insert glass into frame
Secure the inner frame
Secure LEDs
Insert mirror
Connecting LED strip
A traditional lamp with an infinity mirror effect involves placing an LED strip around the perimeter of the frame, but it can be played out in a slightly different way. With the help of LEDs you can not only depict some geometric figures, but also whole words. To do this, an additional structure of slats is glued to the mirror along with the frame.
If you purchased self-adhesive tape, securing it will not be difficult. If it does not stick, then it is fixed along the inner perimeter of the frame using a regular adhesive composition. When it comes to connecting LEDs, there are always two options. If color effects are needed, the light bulbs are connected via controllers. If you connect an RGB lamp directly to the power supply, it will glow white.
Connect to power supply
Video
I'll make it custom infinity mirror according to your measurements. From order to finished product 14 - 21 days. Delivery to all regions of Russia by the best transport companies with 100% insurance.
Advantages of ordering an infinity mirror from Sofia-Led
The first and most important thing is that I work alone.
From all this it follows that the cost of my infinity mirror will be much lower than competitors. I have my own workshop, my own tools and no other “unnecessary” employees. I make the entire journey of the infinity mirror from the layout to the finished product.
I have been making infinity mirrors for over 5 years. During this time, I learned how to assemble options efficiently and inexpensively different sizes with a wide variety of glow patterns. It has long erased the boundaries of making mirrors; they don’t get hot, they shine brightly and for a long time. Here are my advantages:
Mirror frame options
I generally make three versions of frames for the infinity mirror. Their use is determined by the location of the product. For the living room and living room, wood is the most practical; for the bathroom, sealed aluminum or plastic is suitable.
When installing the power supply inside the frame, I use only aluminum or plastic. Wood prevents full ventilation of the heating power supply unit.
Another important difference between my mirrors is that I strictly measure the inner perimeter of the frame so that the LED strip fits exactly where the cut is made. Thus, I achieve an ideal light contour without gaps or overlaps.
What is an "infinity mirror"
Essentially, it is a composite object consisting of at least three layers:
The light emitted from the source is reflected in the mirror and translucent glass, forming a tunnel of reflections, tending inward and toward the center. Under ideal conditions, using two ordinary amalgam mirrors, almost infinite convergence of reflections can be achieved. But this option is unrealistic - a person cannot see through reverse side an ordinary mirror. Therefore, on the side that will be directed towards the person, a translucent mirror is used. Already based on its name, it is clear that it is on it that the main losses of reflection will occur, so each reflection from it will be weaker by a percentage of the transmission capacity of such glass. There are several options for making such mirrors, and I initially use the best ones.
With the correct arrangement of all three layers, an infinity effect is achieved, or an “infinity tunnel”, as many are accustomed to calling it. Of course, it is not infinite, but it can be brought closer to it.
Often, many people neglect the rules and laws of optics during manufacturing, which greatly limits the operation of the mirror and its effect. I calculate the layers of the finished product with millimeter precision. tunnel mirror Thus, I achieve great success.
By the way, the most common option is a mirror with an infinity effect on the wall. I recommend ordering this for your specific size. Why hang a piece of furniture standard size and watch an empty field of wallpaper around you, when you can use empty space for good!
Infinity Tunnel Lighting Options
I use several options for light sources. In 100% of cases they are LED:
I discuss each order with the client, carefully listen to his wishes and operating conditions for the item with the infinity effect. Based on his requirements and my experience, I find the most correct option making an infinity mirror.
“Sofia-Led” offers to order a mirror with an infinity effect of any parameters. For the manufacture of each light tunnel, high-quality, durable materials with a high degree of strength are used.
Remember! The more complex the project, the more interesting it is for me! Don’t forget also that you can buy an infinity mirror as a gift to your friends. They will definitely be grateful to you!
Information for managers and various organizations carrying out repair or restoration work at the sites where my products are planned to be ordered. Follow the link and read the requirements.
Infinity mirror on the ceiling
IN Lately Orders for the manufacture and installation of an infinity mirror in the ceiling, including a suspended one, have become popular. Having developed my own concept, which is completely different from the usual one, I now proudly declare - I will make for you an infinite mirror that can be built into a ceiling of any complexity. This type of placement is not dangerous for residents, since I calculate all the loads and make a 50% safety margin.
Due to the fact that they usually want to install a large infinity mirror in the ceiling, the weight general design which can exceed 200 kg and above, I do not recommend using a solid mirror. In this case, I recommend using several elements whose dimensions are approximately equal to 1 sq.m.
An infinity mirror can transform the most ordinary interior, adding modernity to it. It harmonizes perfectly with futuristic trends and loft style, so it is relevant for use in the living room or bathroom, as well as for decorating various entertainment venues.
The tunnel effect is created using LED backlight, as well as the presence of two mirror surfaces, located parallel to each other. The light is reflected between them, which allows you to achieve a unique feeling of infinity.
The cost of making mirrors with a tunnel effect
| Size(mm) | 600 x 800 | 700 x 700 | 800 x 800 | 900 x 900 | 900 x 1000 | your size |
| price, rub. | 16,800 rub. | RUB 17,150 | RUB 22,400 | RUB 28,350 | RUB 31,500 | negotiable |
On our website you can always order a mirror according to an individual sketch.
Order a mirror with a tunnel effect
How is the effect created?
The mirrors used in manufacturing have different reflection coefficients - from 50 to 100%. The lights of the LEDs located around the perimeter are reflected in them, but the brightness of the subsequent image is reduced by 2 times. That is why you see many flashes, which then go into absolute darkness. Depending on the customer’s wishes, the lighting can be single-color or multi-color.
The World of Stekla company offers you to buy a tunnel mirror at a very favorable price. We offer you the following:
- We ourselves are a manufacturer of products, so we control the quality of products at all stages of production.
- Delivery within Moscow and outside the Moscow Ring Road.
- The surveyor will visit the address.
- Installation of structures at home.
- Individual production of products according to sizes and wishes.
The illuminated tunnel mirror is equipped with a remote control with which you can adjust the brightness of the LED lights. They can be completely turned off, after which the structure will perform the usual functions of a mirror.
Before making a mirror, we send a visualization of the custom-made product (example):
When purchasing from us, you can order custom production products of various sizes, designs and shapes. This is a great way to transform a room, as well as plenty of space for design solutions. You can make a mirror with a tunnel effect by placing one shape inside another, achieving an increased optical illusion. In this case, everything is limited only by your imagination, and the implementation of the idea is our direct responsibility.
The effect of endless reflections is achieved by using a mirror, mirrored translucent glass and a light source between them. Most often, such lamps are used for decorative purposes; they increase volume very well.
I designed a chandelier with a similar effect, but with the function of being the main light in the room. I ordered glass and mirror from the Glass Cutter store. A translucent mirror made from ordinary glass and mirror car film
Materials
- Mirror 500×500 and glass 500×500 with the necessary holes (ordered at the Stelorez store) ~ 950 rub.
- Mirror film (bought at the car market) 1×3m ~ 150 rub.
- Aluminum corner 40mm 4m ~ 350 RUR
- 40 pcs ~ 600 rub.
- Power supply 12V 10A with voltage regulation ~ 450 RUR
- Studs, nuts and other materials ~ 200 rub.
Characteristics
- Dimensions: 500 x 500 x 90
- Number of LEDs 32 x warm white 3W, 8 x cool white 3W
- Power consumption 14V * 600mA *10 = 84W
- Number of sections - 3 (16, 16 and 8 diodes)
- Control: three channels RF315MHz, smooth start, dimming possible (did not implement), LED overheating control
Manufacturing
We make the frame from aluminum corner and fastened by riveting
We connect all LEDs in groups of 4 in series. We put a 1 Ohm 4W resistor on each group, then adjust the voltage to the power supplies so that the current in each group of diodes is ~ 600 mA. For what?
Firstly, I had such a power supply (I bought it with a $15 coupon on ebay)
Secondly, this solution allows you to control the brightness/power of the LEDs using PWM
The disadvantage is approximately 5 W of excess power, which is dissipated in resistors.
We assemble the second (upper) frame.
We attach LEDs to it.
We assemble the entire sandwich: bottom glass, bottom frame, mirror, top frame using studs and 5mm nuts.
We push all the wires through the holes in the mirror to the top.
We install all the electrics and the control controller.
We hang it on the ceiling and connect it
We fix the wires with construction tape so as not to become an eyesore from below.
Result
There is a lot of light in the room. Only under the chandelier itself is it a bit dark due to the low light transmittance of the tint film
The infinity effect has been achieved. Guests look up and down for a long time, entering a trance :)
Testing
The thermal imager showed fairly uniform heating of the LEDs with a maximum heating of the crystals of 58C
The glass heats up to 35C and should not crack.
The cat wonders how much time was wasted for a good sleep 😉
