Eeekkk! Can you hear the excitement? I just built my first mantel shelf from scratch. I mean my first build project period. What a sense of accomplishment, to build something out of raw wood.
I purchased a 2 x 6 x 8, 1 x 8 x 8 and decorative molding. I had Lowe’s cut the large pieces in half so I could make 2 of these shelves, and it is easier to fit into the car.
I trimmed down the 2 x 6 x 4 so it would be the same distance on the 3 sides of the 2 x 8 x 4. Meaning, make both pieces of wood flush on the back side, measure the distance from the front top piece to the front bottom piece. I think mine was 1.75 and I made sure that my sides were the same distance.
I used my favorite tools to secure my wood pieces together. I used Gorilla wood glue and then place a few screws with my Ryobi compact drill to help hold things together. I did use some wood clamps until all things were dry.
Next was to cut and add the trim pieces, this is where I needed help. I have never cut a 45 degree angle with the table saw, and needed Mr. DD’s help. I wish I would of paid more attention in shop class. Yes, I took shop class in middle school, not because that’s where the boys were, but because I wanted to learn how to use tools. I have a very talented father who built things and uses tools all of the time and I think I wanted to be handy like him. I think I have inherited his talents, thanks Dad! I think I can do this the next time, thanks honey!
Once we cut the trim pieces, I used Gorilla Wood Glue and some finishing nails to secure in place. I countersunk and filled nail holes with my Minwax 42853 Stainable Wood Filler, 16-Ounce.
Now to make this mantel shelf pretty. Before I stain any wood, I always use Minwax 61500 Pre Stain Wood Conditioner, 1 Quart The wood conditioner helps the wood take the stain evenly and prevents blotchiness. I used Minwax Dark Walnut as my stain color. I love the look of the dark wood.
I spray painted the metal brackets black.
Isn’t she so pretty? Now she is ready to go to my shop and be decorated.
I love to decorate mantels and change them for the seasons, and I needed a mantel shelf at my shop so I can decorate for our customers. Do you have a mantel in your home? If you have a mantle, do you change it often or do you do it once and forget it?
Jessica @ how to find a man says
Dede,
Thanks for this tutorial. I really like to learn more about working with tools and getting my hands into more home improvement projects instead of paying an arm and a leg to get it done.
Happy Thanksgiving!
Gobble gobble!!!!
Jessica
Dee Williamson says
I love it!!! I want to make one but I’m trying to convince dear hubby. I even showed him yours! I think I got him where I want him now. A mantel may be foreseeable in the near future. Perhaps before turkey day!
Crystal says
Congratulations!! You did a great job!! It’s beautiful!!