How to Refinish a Fireplace Mantle

Refinish your mantle to make the whole room seem cozier.

The fireplace is the warm and cozy centerpiece of your living room. With the wrong mantle, your fireplace can look cold and outdated. You don't have to be stuck with the mantle you currently have. Give your fireplace mantle a makeover and the whole room will suddenly become more inviting. Choose any finish you like. Paint or stain work equally well.

Things You'll Need

• Gloves
• Mask
• Tarp
• Chemical paint stripper
• 3-inch flat paint scraper
• Paint scraper for detailed scroll work
• Dishwashing soap
• Bucket
• Water
• Sandpaper
• Stain
• Rags
• Paste wax

Instructions

1. Wear a mask and rubber gloves. The Consumer Product Safety Commission strongly recommends protective gear while using chemical paint stripper.

2. Apply a thick coat of the paint stripper to the mantle with an old paintbrush. Let the stripper soften the paint or varnish for 15 to 20 minutes.

3. Remove the paint or varnish with a paint scraper. Choose one scraping tool for the main areas of the mantle. Choose a smaller tool to fit into the crevices and any detailed scrolling on the mantle. Hold the scraper away from your body and pull towards you.

4. Combine 1 tablespoon dishwashing soap with warm water in a small bucket. Dip a sponge into the solution. Wring most of the water out of the sponge. Wipe down the mantle with the soapy solution and let the mantle dry completely.

5. Sand the surface of the mantle with fine grit sandpaper. Fold a piece of sandpaper in half. Use the corner to reach into small crevices. Remove all remaining traces of paint or stain. Smooth the wood with the sandpaper.

6. Apply a thin, even coat of paint or stain with a clean paintbrush. Allow the first coat to dry. Apply a second coat of paint or stain. Let the mantle dry overnight.

References

• RemodelAholic: Fireplace Mantel