DIY Reclaimed “Faux” Mantle

One of my wife’s biggest concerns when we moved into our new house was our lack of a fireplace. How could Santa visit our kids without one? She came up with the idea to make a “faux” mantle. It’s not a working fireplace, but it’s a nice spot to hang stockings, and we figure Santa can work his magic to get to the tree.

We made this “faux” mantle using the same reclaimed wood we used to make our unique kitchen backsplash.

Reclaimed wood “faux” mantle

Skill Level: Intermediate
Estimated Time: 4-6 hours

Materials Needed:

• 1x8 board (shelf top)

• 1x6 board (front face)

• 1x4 board (bottom trim)

• Several wood planks or shiplap boards (backing, we used the reclaimed wood)

• 1-2 lightweight boards for a mounting cleat

• Wood screws, wood glue, stain, and sandpaper

• Drill, saw, level

Steps:

1. Build the backing - Cut your wood planks to the height you want and attach them to a simpe frame or directly to the wall using screws. This creates the rustic “wood wall” look.

2. Make the shelf- Cut the 1x8 to the width you want your mantel. Attach the 1x6 to the front edge to make it look thicker. Add the 1x4 underneath if you want an extra decorative layer.

3. Sand and Stain - Smooth everything, then stain the wood in your favorite wood color (we used dark walnut). Seal it if you want extra durability.

4. Mount the mantel- use a cleat or a few long screws drilled into studs to secure the shelf above the wood backing. Check that it’s level.

5. Add finishing touches- Screw in hooks underneath the shelf for stockings and it’s ready to decorate.

And that’s it! The faux mantel is perfect if you need a nice spot for Christmas stockings in a home with no fireplace.