DIY Making a Fireplace Mantel

Article Written and Photographed by Larry Walton

This classic mantel features an arched frieze and can be built using basic carpentry skills. 

You have many options when it comes to fireplace design, like fuel types, locations, firebox liners, ventilation systems and masonry treatments. Mantels alone include a whole array of choices. A fireplace mantel can be natural wood or painted. It can include legs (pilasters) or may even incorporate a bookcase or other storage on each side.

Sketch out the plan for the mantel to get an idea of the proportions you want.

Some mantels extend all the way to the ceiling and include alcoves for displaying art or housing video screens. Surface design options include appliqués, fluting or surface designs. Raised or recessed panels can also be incorporated into the design. Mantels can be as rustic as a log set in river rock or as refined as the most elegant piece of furniture.

Use a level to mark the vertical lines plumb and the horizontal line level.

Starting with the firebox. Measure and mark the width of the granite plus 3/4". Measure from both sides of the firebox as well as above the firebox.

Plan the Design

Mantels are either built in place or built as a unit (on or off site) and installed. How you attack your mantel job depends on your starting point. If you are building a mantel on a new fireplace install, check with any other trades for the order in which to do the job. Some stone masons prefer to have the mantel in place before setting any surround materials while others would like to set the masonry first and then have the mantel built around it or installed over it. This doesn’t mean that the mason or stone setter should call the shots, but if they have a preference you might as well ask them before ignoring them.

Measure and cut backing for the legs. The legs should extend from the floor to the bottom of the mantel shelf.