(Part 2) Reddit mentions: The best mirrors

r/magicmirror is helpful.

If you're crafty, build it. Individual pieces, the expenses will be 2-way 70% transparent mirror, monitor, raspberry pi, 2"x4", mounting materials, screws.

Or, do what I did and buy this mirror and frame by Vilaros, recognize from the reviews that you have ~1 and 1/2 inches of depth to work with and go from there.

I used the Scepter monitor which comes apart very easily and into a very thin LCD frame. Pry apart the plastic, unscrew the mounted navigation strip and you're free to the the monitor however you like.

Warning: That monitor has flat-angle ports, not downward angled ports. This means that rather than a the HDMI port facing the ceiling, it is facing your eyes. My solution was to use a 90 degree HDMI cable. Yours may be to get a different, higher resolution monitor.

From there (well, you might want to play with and set up the Raspberry Pi first), it's just downloading the MagicMirror module, which is added to the Raspbian OS. So, when you turn on the Raspberry Pi computer, it boots up as normal, and after a minute or two goes into the mirror modules once configured to do so. There's some commands to minimize it, but all that is pretty post-setup.

There's a large amount of available modules, and for the most part are easy to install. I have always been interested in coding, but I am far from a coder and far from fully understanding any languages.

For the most part, modules are set-up for their old user in "config files" (.ini files which are edited in notepad), and while they are technically a coding language (java?), it is for the most part fill-in-the-blank.

Generally, the hardest modules to work with are those the need API requests, because then you have to go and create an account to get an API key to add into the config.ini file, however those can also be the most rewarding (weather and maps are the two outstanding ones for me. Weather API key was easy enough, but google is frustrating.)


In short, raspberry pi + SD card with MagicMirror module (available through r/magicmirrors), find a 70% transparent 2 way mirror and a cheap LCD monitor that can be removed from its shell and set them flush against each other with a black-out board behind the monitor. Mount the monitor safely inside, wire it all before-hand and my recommendations are to have the Pi at the bottom of the mirror near the lead-out of the power source to the monitor, that way and USB, ethernet, or HDMI cables will be routed out/hidden behind the frame/still easily accessible - especially if you plan on using USB of any kind. SSH is great, but it's really hard for a non-user. Best bet is to get a wireless keyboard/combined trackpad w/ USB dongle, that way you can interact with your Pi easily while it's mounted on the wall.

That wasn't as short as I meant it to be...

It's a fun project. It's easy and minimal. I have my monitor connected to my RPI and my PC, it would be nice to have an easier way to select sources outright, and while I don't use the "magic" mirror every day, I use the mirror at least once a day and it's very easy to turn the "magic" on. When it is on, I mostly use it for current time.

Beyond that, I have a third monitor for my PC that's mounted inside a mirror on my wall. It's pretty fucking dope.

OH. Last thing. 70% transparent = fucks with the monitors brightness. For the Magic Mirror, backlight + brightness up is all you will need. However, PC. That means TV/movie/media.

You saving graces will be ~.20 to .80 added gamma, adding a little saturation, adding a little contrast, and for me, going most of the way full on brightness (between 70 and 90 from memory). However animation looks much better on what I currently have than regular TV does, regular TV could do to lose some of my added gamma, possibly some brightness, or possibly both. Animation could do to lose ~5 to 10 during bright sequences.

It's been a while since I've talked about Magic Mirrors so I'm pretty sure those are all of my immediate thoughts. I'd say it's worth it if you don't already have a (nice, robust, portrait-sized) mirror in your room alone. Mine easily came out to be around $150 (I linked 2 of my 3 total purchases... nyeh I guess that's $140 +tax and shipping), I technically already owned the same monitor I linked, however I did later buy it again to replace the one that was used for my Magic Mirror.

God, if I don't stop this post now its never going to en

I second the idea of a round mirror. When it reflects the light from the window, it'll look like another "window" in the room, and better help bounce the light around.

I like this one for your space, and I think the brown color would look great!

I recently purchased a house and this is our kitchen. I hate it. Still trying to find a way to make it feel more cozy.

My friends also had a kitchen like this and they had a mirror that looked like a window above the sink. It definitely brightened it up. Something like this, but without the shelf: https://www.amazon.com/dp/B074XDF1F5/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_KeVEDbK2VS9B9

However, having such a small kitchen the extra little space could help.

Also, maybe a cute spice rack on the wall with matching glass spice jars?

(Sorry, on mobile)

That's the Fractal Mirror from Zuo Modern. They're a manufacturer that sells to the trade only but Amazon usually sells their products and they ship directly from Zuo.

Here is the link from Zuo's website: http://www.zuomod.com/shop/fractal-mirror/

Here is the link from Amazon: http://www.amazon.com/zuo-850003-ZUO-Fractal-Mirror/dp/B002OB6L4C/ref=sr_1_1?ie=UTF8&qid=1393793532&sr=8-1&keywords=zuo+modern+fractal+mirror

It looks as though the Bilbao Mirror from Z Gallerie is the same mirror. A lot of the time big box stores like ZG offer great pricing on these goods.

I’ll guess March 4th- should be enough time for 2 weeks notice at your previous job, plus it’s a Monday. Big congrats on the new job!!

I would love this fun mirror https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0040E7PWI/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_NS2yCbTXJ7A0B (our mirrors have all been busted from moves, oof)

Thanks for the contest!

Here’s what I would do:

Cozy:

• add a bed skirt. Trust me, it will make a huge difference
  
• add a big rug (a few feet smaller than the size of the room).
  
• add some real or fake plants
  
• add some real or fake flowers
  
• add a full length mirror.
  
• hang up your artwork.
  
• add some floating shelves with some “cozy” knickknacks (e.g. a salt lamp)
  
• put some throw pillows on your bed.
  
• hang some curtains, ditch the blinds
  
• add a beautiful floor lamp
  
• add a bed canopy/net
  
  Functional:
  
• it looks like you have a yoga mat in the corner. Why not set up a little yoga/meditation area? Complete with candles and floor cushions
  
• add an ottoman to the foot of your bed (storage + seating)
  
• add a basket to store extra blankets and pillows
  
• add a bookshelf. Fill with books.
  
• if you work from home, maybe put in a desk?
  
• rearrange the furniture and add some accent chairs
  
  

Oh nice! I wound up getting a Cheval mirror like this one last week for $10. Super excited.

Yay. I like the wine bottle and table idea. But with the clock, it's just nothing that stands out with it so placing it higher up makes the eye wander over the room. Think about it, where do mostly see clocks in a room? Placing a mirror (here's an idea) or some piece of art the long table plus the bottle and dishes could just make it the emphasis of the room. But go with what you feel is best.

Ohh! I love this purple velvet sofa / chaise.

and this gothic style chandelier and candle holders and this kick ass tapestry.

This end table is awesome

and this castle inspired display cabinet. (Unfortunately its matching pieces are hella expensive.)

Check out this mirror

and these throw pillows are cool too :)

Forest nurseries = awesome. :)

I like these things.
http://www.amazon.com/Sea-Turtle-Mosaic-Hanging-Spectacular/dp/B003C7EKZY/ref=sr_1_11?s=baby-products&ie=UTF8&qid=1373330656&sr=1-11

http://www.amazon.com/Petit-Collage-Strand-Mobile-Fish/dp/B00801X26K/ref=sr_1_18?s=baby-products&ie=UTF8&qid=1373330656&sr=1-18

http://www.amazon.com/Baxters-Corner-Octopus-Kids-Art/dp/B00A9PRPAO/ref=sr_1_169?s=baby-products&ie=UTF8&qid=1373330787&sr=1-169

You could call around to sign shops in your area and get quotes on having the poster mounted on foam board and laminated. I have several posters finished that way, and they're in great shape 10+ years later. You can hang it with mirror clips.

Of course, this all seems like far too much effort. I think its best you just get rid of the poster entirely. It's clearly causing you too much grief and consternation. As it happens, I personally enjoy grief and consternation, and will be glad to give that troublesome poster a new home. :)

I have this one

It comes in different colors but I love the lights and the different magnifications!

another pic

Not sure if repost, but I can’t seem to find a commercially available alternative other than the underwhelming and battery-only https://www.amazon.com/dp/B0784VW82Y/ref=cm_sw_r_cp_api_i_AFWpDbJ51FYGS

Anyone have a better solution for buying something like this?

This is our dining room that my girlfriend and I designed! I’m very excited to share it with you - a zen home has always been a dream for me (one that I never expected to achieve). Our first room that we would like to share with you is our dining room.

The products in the photo are:

West Elm

• Hera Round Dining Table, 42"
  
• Finley Low-Back Upholstered Dining Chair
  
• Rhea Rug, 6’x9’
  
• Turned Wood Leg Standing Planter, Tall, White
  
  World Market
  
  
• White Marble Lazy Susan
  
  Amazon
  
  
• Umbra Prisma Wall Mirror Copper
  
• Placemats
  
  Plants
  
  
• Snake plant (on the floor in the planter)
  
• Spider plant (on the table)
  
  Paint (Sherwin Williams)
  
  
• Eider White (wall color)
  
• ProClassic SemiGloss Extra White (trim color)

May I recommend one of the following?

• Something to reflect her as a person
  
  
• A personal guide to self improvement
  
  
• A patriotic music box with appropriate song selection
  
  
• A nod to her fashion sense
  
  And my last suggestion:
  
  
• A gift to reflect her personal passions in life

Ooh i never get to make suggestions for decorating! This will be fun even if i don't win!

This really cool jewelry shelf

This nifty mirror

Keyboard waffle iron because who needs practicality!

This silly cow wine bottle holder

I’m not sure, but I’ve seen stuff like it on amazon!

Edit: did a quick search, something like this

I don't think they'll let you in with any decent sized mirror because it's essentially a plane of glass. Your best option might be to get one of the square handheld ones they use in barber shops, stash it in a bag, and have a friend wave it around for you.

I put these mirror stickers on bottom of a macro pad and it helped with light bouncing... In fact TOO bright. BTW, your Iris looks great as it is!

Basically, you can barely see the text when the light is on or yourself when the light is off. The video actually makes it look good.

Parts:

• Raspberry pi zero (booting into a browser to show the magicmirror, which is hosted on a home server)
  
• Spare monitor
  
• Acrylic see-through mirror 1mm
  
  Is this normal? Or is this acrylic too thin? Too cheap?

Same here! Also, some guy just made it to the subs front page and he used the acrylic in the video. depending on your size monitor, someone found a way cheaper 18x24 on Amazon so always do your research!

Here's the link:
https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01G4MQ966/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&th=1

I'm planning to build mine with a 3mm acrylic one from here: https://www.amazon.com/gp/product/B01G4MQ966/ref=oh_aui_detailpage_o03_s00?ie=UTF8&th=1

Mirror mounting clips