How to Make a Custom DIY Fireplace
Al Woodford is a talented hobbyist with decades of experience in woodworking, sewing, and fabricating. His latest project was a custom-built fireplace mantel for his home in Georgia. In this article he guides us through the process step by step. We’re excited to share Al’s project and hope it inspires your next DIY creation!
Preparation
I begin with a sketch:
Then I gather materials to bring my idea to life. From Outwater I used classic Egg & Dart style crown moulding & its matching outside corner piece which eliminates the hassle of mitering. I also bought a decorative applique for the face of the mantel.
For this project you will also need:
Hammer & Nails
Saw
Power Drill & Screws
Sandpaper
Pieces of wood (to be cut to various sizes)
Cardboard
Heavy duty tape
Decorative Laminate (optional)
Building the Fireplace Frame
Make one left side and one right side for the bottom section of the fireplace.
Attach cardboard to 3 sides.
Uprights for the Fireplace (make 2)
Make 2 cuts of wood 1”x3”x24” each for the sides of the uprights.
Make 1 cut 1”x4”24” for the front of uprights.
Miter 1”x2” pieces for the bottom of the uprights.
Select a post topper of your choice.
You can find ball toppers, flat caps, and tapered toppers at Outwater.
Fireplace Mantel Shelf
Make 2 cuts of wood 1”x6”54” for front and back.
Make 2 cuts of wood 1”x10” and 1/2" for the sides.
Upper Section of Fireplace Mantel (below the shelf)
Make 4 cuts 2”x2”54”
Make 8 cuts 2”x2”9”
Lower Section of Fireplace Mantel
Make 3 cuts of thin cardboard 24”x24” and join them together with a heavy tape.
The Floor Section
Lay the laminate length-ways from end to end.
A Note on the Laminate…
Lamination is optional. I like to use pergo with an adhesive backing. Pergo is tougher and more scratch-resistant than most other laminate options. The pergo slats have the appearance of wood which is very realistic.
You can also use 12''x12'' tile with adhesive backing. I like the marble look. There is lamination on the roll you can order online; but, the easiest way is to use linoleum and wrap it around from side to front to side with staples.
