Making a floating shelf mantel is a relatively easy project that can add a great decorative touch to any room. The best part about it is that all you need is a few basic supplies from your local hardware store and you can have it completed in no time.
Here’s what you will need:
• Wooden shelf boards
• ½ inch Birchwood dowel with pre-drilled holes
• Wood screws
• Wall anchors
• Drill
• Level
• Hammer
• Pencil
Step 1: Start by measuring your wall and deciding on the size of the shelf you want. Mark the placement of the shelf on the wall using a pencil.
Step 2: Attach the wall anchors using the drill and hammer. This will provide support for the shelf and make sure it doesn’t come down. Then, drill the holes to fit the ½ inch Birchwood dowel.
Step 3: Cut the shelf boards to the desired length for the mantel. Then, drill the wood screws into the sides of the boards to give them more strength.
Step 4: Place the shelf boards onto the ½ inch Birchwood dowel, and then screw the boards into the dowel. This will keep them in place securely.
Step 5: Place the mantel shelf onto the wall anchors and screw it into place. Use a level to make sure it’s properly aligned.
Once everything has been secured, you’re ready to adorn your mantel shelf with your beloved décor items. Congratulations, you’ve created your own floating shelf mantel!
What is the purpose of a floating shelf?
A floating shelf is a shelving unit that is hung from the wall without visible mounting hardware. They are often used to add storage and decorative elements to a room without taking up a lot of space or drawing attention away from the other room’s décor.
Floating shelves are often found in bathrooms, bedrooms, kitchens and other rooms in the home where you need additional storage for items like books, magazines,DVDs and other items. Floating shelves can also be used as a way to display decorative items like plants, artwork, sculptures, and photographs.
Floating shelves also provide an opportunity to highlight special family heirlooms or items with sentimental value in a more interesting way. Floating shelves also make it easier to arrange items in a room, as they can be adjusted to whatever size and shape works best in your room.
This helps to create a pleasing and organized aesthetic.
What is a floating mantel?
A floating mantel is a type of mantelpiece that is designed to “float” without being attached or connected to anything, usually the wall or fireplace behind it. It is usually made of wood, natural stone, or a combination of both, and is typically hung at eye level or slightly above using a cleat system or wall-mount anchors.
Floating mantels are designed to draw the viewers’ eyes upward and can provide an interesting focal point in any room. They are also useful when the regular installation of a mantelpiece is not possible, such as in front of a window or over a piece of furniture.
Floating mantels are becoming increasingly popular for those looking to add a unique, stylish feature to their homes.
How are floating fireplace mantels attached?
Floating fireplace mantels are secured to the wall or ceiling with concealed or visible mounting brackets. The size, shape, and material of the bracket depends on the design and style of the mantel shelf and size of the wall mounting surface.
Typically, metal brackets with a metal or wood fastener, depending on the wall type, are used to mount the mantel. If the mantel is to be secured to the ceiling, lag bolts, toggle bolts, or some type of threaded anchor should be used.
Additionally, appropriate adhesive, wall plugs, and/or nail gun can be used to securely fasten the mantel to the wall or ceiling. The materials used to mount the mantel should be strong enough to support the weight of the mantel.
Additionally, it is important to ensure the mounting brackets are placed properly, as any misalignment will cause the mantel to hang unevenly or become unstable. Once properly secured, some mantel types require the builder to attach mounting cleats or other mechanical fastening devices to the mantel shelf, which allow the floating mantel to be attached to the wall or ceiling.
Do you install mantel before or after stone?
The installation process for a mantel or fireplace surround depends on whether you are doing a full or partial remodel. If you’re doing a partial remodel, where an existing mantel is in place, you’ll need to remove the existing mantel before you can install the new one.
It’s best to install the mantel before the stone, so that the stone can fit around the sides and top of the mantel once it is set in place. If you’re doing a full remodel, it is usually recommended to install the new mantel first, before setting the stone.
This way, you can ensure that the mantel is properly aligned and level. After the mantel is securely in place, you can then install the stone around the perimeter of the mantel, ensuring that both pieces look great and are structurally sound.
How do you install a floating mantel on a brick fireplace?
Installing a floating mantel on a brick fireplace is not a difficult task. First, you need to measure the width of the fireplace opening and the mantel you purchased. Put the mantel in the opening and make sure it fits properly.
Next, you need to create a drywall support box that will surround the mantel. You can do this by using two-by-fours and drywall screws. Make sure the box is structurally sound and the mantel is securely in place.
Once that is done, you need to secure the mantel to the brick by using heavy-duty masonry screws. You need to drill pilot holes first and then attach the screws. Make sure you take the time to ensure the mantel is secure and sturdy.
Finally, you can begin to finish off the look with any decorative materials that you desire. Paint, trim, wallpaper, etc. can all be used to complete the look. Congrats on the final step of installing your floating mantel!.
What are the two types of mantel?
The two types of mantels are wood mantels and stone mantels. Wood mantels are the traditional choice and provide a warm, attractive aesthetic that is easily customizable with paint, stain, and more. They are relatively lightweight, making them easy to install and customize.
Wood mantels provide classic elegance that complements any type of home. Stone mantels are often considered more stately and refined than wood mantels and are often seen in more formal settings. They are more durable and can last decades, but they can be more expensive and difficult to install and customize.
Stone mantels add a touch of sophistication to a room, making them a perfect option for those seeking a timeless, elegant look.
Can floating shelf be used as mantel?
Yes, it is possible to use a floating shelf as a mantel. A floating shelf is particularly attractive as a mantel because it adds depth to a wall without taking up too much room. Floating mantels are also easy to create and can be customized to fit the style of the room.
The key is to find the appropriate size and length of shelf to fit over a fireplace or other wall feature. Once the shelf is in place, you can dress it up with decorative items like plants, baskets, and candles.
In addition, having a floating mantel eliminates the need for additional wall supports that may be necessary when installing a traditional mantel.
What do you put on a fireplace mantel?
It really depends on the look and feel you are trying to achieve with your fireplace mantel. Firstly, make sure that whatever you place on your fire place mantel has enough height to be easily seen and appreciated.
A tall mirror, artwork, floral arrangement or a framed family photo can all make great centerpieces. Similarly, tall pieces such as a sculpture or lamp can help bring height and interest to the area.
Additionally, smaller items can be used to fill any blank spaces or for added flair. Coffee table books, candles and knick-knacks are all wonderful items for displaying on a mantle. Be sure to consider the styling of your fireplace mantel when deciding what to put on it.
For a rustic look, consider wood accents such as a distressed mirror frame or carved votive holders. For a modern look, metal or glass accents can really help pull the space together. Overall, the items you choose should reflect your own personal taste and help bring your vision to life.
Can I use a shelf as a mantel?
Yes, you can certainly use a shelf as a mantel. Mantels are typically found over a fireplace and are used for decor and storage. Shelves, on the other hand, can be used as mantels, however they will provide less storage and be used mainly for decor.
When selecting a shelf that can be used as a mantel, you should ensure it is a large and sturdy enough to provide a presence over the fireplace, and one with the correct measurements for the height and length of the fireplace.
Additionally, the shelf should be aesthetically pleasing and made from the appropriate material for the space. You can add detailing to the shelf to make it look even more like a mantel, such as moldings, corbels and board and batten, depending on the desired look.
