A mantle is all about style. With or without a fireplace, a mantle creates something interesting to look at.

And mantles don't have to be fancy to become a focal point. In fact, simple mantles work well with most decorating schemes. With appropriate accessories, a simple mantle can complement contemporary, Victorian, or country decor.

There are a few tricks to decorating traditional mantles. But Shari and I have found that these tips work just as well even if there is no fireplace under your mantle.

First, a mantle should have its own focal point. Often, a single large painting or mirror is used. However, it is also possible to use two or more coordinating pieces of art to create a grouping.

When hanging a painting or mirror over the mantle, be sure it's not too high. For a different look, you can also just lean the painting or mirror against the wall.

It's important to remember basic design principles when you are decorating a mantle, including color, texture, symmetry and size. A vase filled with cattails can provide both color and texture.

To create an interesting look, use a variety of heights and sizes. A tall vase on one end of the mantle can be balanced with a grouping of multi-sized candles on the other.

Simple mantles can also be used to help create a theme within a room. Shells could be used to support a nautical theme, while fishing lures and equipment might be used for a sportsman-themed room.

So, if you'd like to have a mantle in your home, even if you don't have a fireplace, here's what you'll need to get started:

• Tape measure
• Level
• Hammer
• Screwdriver
• Jigsaw
• Circular saw or handsaw
• Router (optional)
• 3-inch L brackets
• Primer/sealer
• Latex semi-gloss paint
• 1-inch- by 6-inch pine (paint grade)
• 3/4-inch decorative molding (optional)
• 3/4-inch wire brads
• Finishing nails
• Wood glue
• Sandpaper
• Spackle
• Safety equipment

To begin, determine the length of the mantle. Measure, mark and cut a 1-inch- by 6-inch pine to length using a circular saw or handsaw. Either rout the front edge of the shelf, using a quarter-round router bit, or attach a piece of decorative trim that can be purchased at a lumber dealer. These decorative trims come in many styles and can be attached using wire brads and wood glue.

Next, create two wall support brackets. These brackets will be mounted directly to the wall, acting as a cleat. Sketch an interesting design and transfer the pattern to a block of 1-inch- by 6-inch wood. Cut the pattern using a jigsaw. Repeat this process to create the second wall support. For additional visual interest, rout all but the top edges of the bracket with a quarter-round bit.

Next, create two mantle supports. These supports should be 5-1/2 inches wide at the top edge and the same length as the wall supports. Sketch a design and transfer the pattern to a block of 1-inch- by 6-inch wood. Cut the pattern using a jigsaw. Repeat this process to create the second shelf support.

After priming all bare wood surfaces with a primer/sealer, mount the mantle to the wall. Use 3-inch L brackets secured to the wall into wall studs or use self-anchoring wall molleys. Attach shelf from underneath using drywall screws.

After the mantle is attached, fill in any nail holes in the wood with spackle. Allow the spackle to dry, then sand with 120-grade sandpaper. Spot-prime all the sanded spackle with the primer and allow to dry. Sand the entire shelf with 220-grade sandpaper. The primer will cause the wood fibers to raise, so to achieve a really smooth surface, sanding is a must. When sanding is complete, wipe down the mantle with a tack cloth to remove any dust.

To give the mantle a finished look, caulk all the cracks and gaps where the boards meet with a latex silicone caulking. This step takes time, but is really worth the effort for a great finished look. Allow the caulking to dry, and apply a finish coat of latex semi-gloss paint. Apply two coats to truly protect the mantle from future wear and tear.

Stand back and admire your work. Who says you have to have a fireplace to create a beautiful mantle? Certainly no one who's seen this beauty!

See other articles by Matt & Shari on FamilyCorner.com

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About the Author
As hosts of the hit HGTV show Room by Room, Matt and Shari are a team that works. They combine their skills and knowledge to give you the punch and the power to make your home dreams - reality. They pride themselves in their unique decorating solutions, easy teaching style, and entertaining manner. Visit Matt & Shari on the web at MattandShari.com

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