To make a wooden fireplace mantel with a floating design, you’ll want to create a minimalist, clean look where the mantel appears to “float” without visible supports. Here’s how you can do it:
Materials:
- Hardwood boards (oak, maple, or cherry are good choices)
- Wood glue
- Screws (long enough to secure the mantel to the wall)
- Wall anchors (for additional support, especially if mounting to drywall)
- Drill with appropriate bits
- Saw (circular or miter saw)
- Wood finish or paint (optional)
- Sandpaper or sander
- Stud finder (for locating wall studs)
- Level
Steps:
1. Measure Your Fireplace
- Determine the size of your mantel. It should generally extend a few inches beyond the width of your fireplace opening. The depth of the mantel (how far it projects from the wall) is usually around 8–12 inches.
2. Prepare the Wood
- Cut your wood to the desired length for the mantel. You may need to cut several pieces to create the depth of the floating mantel.
- Sand the wood smooth and apply any desired finish (stain, paint, or clear coat). Let the finish dry thoroughly before proceeding.
3. Mount the Support Bracket
- The key to a floating design is hidden support. You’ll need a solid bracket or cleat system that will be anchored securely into the wall.
- Use a stud finder to locate the studs in the wall where the mantel will be mounted. Mark these areas clearly.
- Install a floating bracket system, which is a metal plate or hidden cleat that can hold the weight of the mantel. The bracket should be attached directly to the wall studs. Ensure that it is level and secure.
4. Attach the Mantel to the Bracket
- Once your bracket is in place, you can attach the mantel. For a more modern look, the front of the mantel should cover the support bracket, hiding it completely.
- If you’re using a cleat system, the back of the mantel will slide onto the cleat or hook into the bracket. If you’re using a more traditional bracket, you’ll screw the mantel into place from beneath or from the back side of the wood.
5. Final Adjustments
- Ensure the mantel is level and flush with the wall. Adjust if necessary by adding spacers or tightening the screws.
- If any screws or mounting hardware are visible on the sides of the mantel, use wood filler to conceal them, and touch up the finish as needed.
6. Optional: Add Decorative Elements
- You can add trim around the edges of the mantel to create a more finished look or leave it simple and clean for a more modern, floating design.
Tips:
- Make sure to securely attach the floating bracket to the wall studs, as the mantel’s weight will be fully supported by this.
- Be mindful of the weight of the mantel material, especially if using dense hardwoods, to ensure that the bracket system can support it.
That’s it! You’ll have a sleek floating wooden mantel that adds a contemporary touch to your fireplace area.