DIY Round Mirror with Leather Strap

Craft a designer-look wall DIY round mirror using a hat box, leather strap, and your creativity. No heavy tools needed!

Looking for a unique, stylish, and surprisingly simple DIY that’ll give your walls a serious glow-up? This round mirror project checks all the boxes… literally. With just a paper mache hat box, a round mirror insert, and a sleek leather strap, you can create a high-end-looking hanging mirror that blends rustic charm with modern minimalism. It’s the perfect accent for entryways, bedrooms, or any blank wall begging for a little love.

What makes this project even better? It’s budget-friendly, beginner-approved, and totally customizable. Whether you prefer a natural wood look, bold painted frame, or distressed finish, this hack lets you tailor the vibe to match your space. And yes, you’ll feel very impressed every time someone asks where you bought it.

And you get to say, “Oh, I made it.” (Thanks to Aileen of At Home in Love!) For more easy mirror projects, check out our fringe boho mirror, concrete vanity mirror, and color block wall hanging mirror tutorial.

Materials and Tools Needed

• Round paper mache hat box lid: We used a 12″ Darice Hat Box from Joann. Any round box lid will do. Just make sure the lid is deep enough to hold your mirror without it sticking out. Flush is best for a clean, polished look. (Similar options like this one available online.)
• Round mirror: Also sourced from Joann. You can find comparable 12″ round mirrors online.
• Leather belt blank — Ours is a natural hide tooling strap measuring 1.25″ wide from Hobby Lobby. Or purchase one online here. Decide how long you want your hanging strap to be, and cut the belt blank to size.
• Paint: Choose a shade that closely matches your leather strap. Hardware stores usually carry a wide range of tones, so finding a good match should be easy.
• Sponge brush: Use a small foam roller or sponge brush for a smooth, streak-free finish on the paper mache.
• Hole punch
• Drill or leather hole punch
• Brass hex nuts and bolts: These will secure your strap to the lid. Choose a finish that complements your leather and paint color.
• Superglue: For adhering the mirror securely to the lid.

How to Make a DIY Round Mirror with a Leather Strap.

1 — Paint your hat box: Apply paint to the lid and outer sides of the box. No need to paint the center area of the lid. Your mirror will cover that part.

2 — Attach the strap to the lid: Punch 2 small holes in the lid where the strap will connect.

Then, mark those hole positions onto the ends of the leather strap using a pen.

Use a leather punch or drill to make the holes in the strap. Then, secure it to the lid using brass bolts and hex nuts.

3 — Mount the mirror: Apply superglue to the back of your mirror and center it on the inside of the hat box lid. Use a few heavy books to weigh it down while it dries completely. Once dry, your mirror is ready to hang. No one will guess it started as a hat box!

Tutorial Notes and Tips

• Mirror sizing tip: If your mirror is slightly smaller than the box lid, you can use a painted or patterned backing behind the mirror for a layered effect—or center it for a minimalist, floating look.
• Strap placement = balance: When marking where to attach your leather strap, ensure the holes are evenly spaced and aligned so the mirror hangs straight. Use a ruler or template for accuracy.
• Leather alternatives: No leather? Try using a canvas strap, rope, or even a sturdy ribbon for a different vibe. Just be sure the material is strong enough to hold the weight.
• Hardware hack: If you want a cleaner look on the front, try using brass Chicago screws or dome cap nuts for a more finished, decorative appearance.
• Mounting tip: Use a heavy-duty wall hook or picture hanger rated for at least 5–10 lbs to safely support the weight of your finished mirror.
• Customize it: Paint the box in bold color blocks, add gold leaf edging, or distress the surface for a vintage look. The design is simple, but the styling possibilities are endless.

More Wall Decor DIYs

• DIY Rainbow Art Wall Hanging
• DIY Floral Embroidery Ring Backdrop
• Abstract Shapes DIY Fabric Wall Art
• DIY Geometric Metal Wall Hang

Round Mirror with Leather Strap

Print

5 from 4 votes

Craft a designer-look wall DIY round mirror using a hat box, leather strap, and your creativity. 

Prep Time1 hour hr

Total Time1 hour hr

Course DIY

Category Mirrors

Equipment

• Sponge brush
• Hole punch
• Drill or leather hole punch
• Super glue

Materials

• 1 round mirror 12" wide
• 1 paper hat box lid 12" wide
• 1 leather belt blank 1.25" wide cut to your desired length
• 2 hex nut and bolt
• Paint

Instructions

• Paint the hat box: Apply paint to the lid and outer sides of the box. No need to paint the center area of the lid. Your mirror will cover that part. Allow to dry completely.
• Attach the strap to the lid: Punch 2 small holes in the lid where the strap will connect.
• Mark those hole positions onto the ends of the leather strap using a pen. Use a leather punch or drill to make the holes in the strap.
• Secure the painted strap it to the lid using brass bolts and hex nuts.
• Mount the mirror: Apply superglue to the back of your mirror and center it on the inside of the hat box lid. Use a few heavy books to weigh it down while it dries completely. Once dry, your mirror is ready to hang.

Cost: $60

KEYWORD: DIY round mirror

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