Once that masonry work was done on our fireplace, we needed a new mantle. We decided to make a simple “L” shaped mantle with one flat side laying on top of the current concrete mantle and one hanging down over the new, beautiful stones. Below are the instructions to our DIY Mantle!
Here is an image of the old fireplace and mantle:
Here is a list of supplies needed for a DIY Simple Mantle:
2 – 3 – 4 – 5 – 6 – 7 – 8 – 9 – 10 – 11 – 12 – 13
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Step 1: Build Mantle
We found a lumber mill that sold us two 14 feet long pieces of poplar wood for only $60! We chose poplar as the wood for the mantle because when painted, poplar allows for a grain free finish. We nailed and glued the mantle into the “L” shape.
Step 2: Spackle Nail holes
Once the mantle dried overnight we were ready to fill in the nail holes! I used lightweight spackle to fill in all the nail holes. Once the spackle has completely dried you can lightly sand the spackle to a smooth finish
NOTE: If you plan to stain your mantle use wood filler instead of spackle so the holes will look more natural.
Step 3: Sand, Sand, & Sand
This step is so important if you want the mantle to be smooth. So we used a belt sander and sanded the mantle A LOT. We also used the sanding sponge to sand the spackle from the nail holes.
Step 4: Paint (or stain)
To paint the mantle, I used a paint roller frame and brush and it only took me about two minutes! I did two coats of the Sherwin Williams Pure White.
Note: If you are staining your mantle use an old rag to stain. I really love the Dark Walnut Stain. I recently used this stain color on our DIY Sofa Table (new post to come).
Step 5: Install!
Once the paint dried, we glued the mantle to the original concrete mantle with Liquid Nails Adhesive. Then sat very heavy objects on top to let it dry and cure. After 48 hours we had a finished mantle!!
See our Fireplace Reveal using the mantle we built here!
It is good to see how you made an already good cement mantle to a better one. I like how you used an abrasive belt grinder to smoothen the edges. If ever, we could use your knowledge of heavy construction equipment to help us out.
Thank you! It was a pretty simple project that made a huge difference 🙂
Hi Emily,
Do you have any video tutorial?
Sawyer, Thanks for reaching out! I have been thinking about videos. Thank you for the suggestion!
Thanks for sharing Nice post.it’s very helpful information for everyone.
Thank you!
Very interesting and informative article. Loved it and enjoyed reading it.
Thank you!
I like that you have layered your concrete with ornate bricks with a color that fits your facade. My wife and I would love it if we do this in our fireplace as well. If only there is a contractor nearby that can help us with concrete services at home.
Thank you! We used a local tile person. Usually someone that does tile can also do masonry work. Good luck with your project!
The Diy Simple mantle is perfect for any home! It’s made with simple materials and easy to follow instructions, so you can make your own personalized mantle quickly and easily. This mantle is perfect for a modern and stylish home.
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