Craftsmanship in a Garage

Craftsmanship in a Garage

Sunday, July 11, 2010

Fireplace Mantle Shelf

I built this fireplace mantle shelf a while ago for a friend.  The material I used is 4/4 poplar. Poplar is a knot free lumber that works easily and takes paint exceptionally well.

The first step is to cut the parts to the dimensioned sizes. After the parts are cut and edges shaped with the router, assembly begins. Because poplar rarely splits, assembly was easily done with the nail gun and woodworkers glue.

The main body is basically a box that is open on the back side. This opening fits on a hanger board that is bolted to the studs on the wall above the fireplace. Careful measuring is done so the box fits on the hanger and is properly aligned and centered with the top of the fireplace.

After careful sanding, I started finishing with a coat of primer. Primer seals the wood and provides an even surface for the finish paint to bond. Two coats of finish paint were sprayed for an attractive durable finish to the mantle shelf.


Ripping lumber to width on the table saw
Assembling with the nail gun and glue.



Assembled shelf prior to finishing.

Brushing primer.







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