Materials
- 2 x 4 Reclaimed wood
- Nails
- Wall anchors
- Screws
- Stud finder
- Nail gun
Check old wood for bugs and seal with polyurethane
Measure the wood to the size you want
Cut pieces: top, bottom, two sides, and front piece
(We cut ours to 5 feet wide by 11 inches deep by 5 inches tall. If using reclaimed wood, it will determine how big you can make your pieces. Remember to clean and use polyurethane if using old wood.)
Use chop saw to cut wood-if uncomfortable cutting bring to local shop
If you don’t have a nail gun use finish nails
Always use glue for extra holding strength
Finish with clear gloss
ALRIGHT, THE MANTLE IS PUT TOGETHER, HOW DO WE HANG THIS?
We are going to use what is called a cleat, a way of securing a cabinet to a wall. I’m using the most basic form, a 2x4. It should be drilled into the studs of the wall, but if you can’t find one use dry wall anchors. Once the cleat is secured to the wall, the mantel can be just lifted on to it. Because no fine maneuvering is required even a relatively heavy cabinet can be hung easily this way.
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