The simplicity of this pretty yet rustic mantle facade definitely will create a textured focal point in your home. Check out how to create this affordable and fabulous mantle after the jump...
How To: Make A Wood Block Mantle
Where to start....If you have a working fireplace then check with your fire department or building-code official to make sure the design and materials will meet ordinances in your area. If you have a non-working mantle (like the one pictured) you are ready to go.
Gather lumber....Try using old wood, which offers a vitality and texture. Check out demolition sites, salvage yards and your basement (if you have one). The mantel shown was crafted simply from scraps. [For a 42" x 54" model (outer dimensions), you'll need about 41' of 2" x 6" boards].
Cut & stain...Using a handsaw, cut the planks into 8"-long segments. Vary the lengths slightly to create a casual, stacked look. Color each block to your liking with various stains.
Assemble the frame...Arrange the pieces in three groups (two legs plus crosspiece) according to your dimensions and desired pattern. Use wood glue to adhere the blocks to one another. When dry, glue the three sections together with construction adhesive, following the manufacturer's guidelines. You can mount the whole thing to the wall using construction adhesive as well. Let it set overnight. [Resources: Gorilla Wood Glue and Liquid Nails Construction Adhesive.]
[Via Domino]
Check out more How To's from Apartment Therapy here:
Comments (8)
Daily Email
Top Tours
- Moses and Jamie's Whimsical Modern
- Jaime and Carleton's Backyard Palm Springs
- A Mid-Century Modern Musicians' Loft
- Bryan's Fashionable Statement
- Alysia's Treehouse by the Lake
Top Posts
© 2009 Apartment Therapy
I adore this and am seriously considering giving it a shot
view hanako66's profile
Attractive, but clearly violates the national standard building code.
You can't have combustible trim that close to the opening of a fireplace.
view LilyC's profile
looks like something from a really bad home decorating show.
view peachpie's profile
First thought when I saw the picture is how long will it take to start a fire in the mantel facade.
view click212's profile
Nice idea for a non-working fireplace.
view Lisa Hunter (Montreal)'s profile
Even if you were to insert:
"For a NON WORKING FIREPLACE"
into the subject title-
you are still doing a horrible disservice to your readers who don't read and only look at pictures,
by inferring that this is a good idea.
Not only is it a clear Code violation,
Not only is it a Fire Hazard,
but its just isn't that attractive as well.
And- it only invites a Liability Suit against AT.
There's a reason many Fireplace Surrounds are made of Steel, Slate , marble and other non combustible materials,
they don't burn"
view Man_ofSteel's profile
I have seen this on another blog and it works with that room.
As long as its not working fine.
view LoriSF's profile
Ok, crazy unsafe for an actual mantle, but,,,,,would make a killer headboard for a weekend cabin.
view brcline's profile