A fireplace is a beautiful asset to a home, but it isn’t complete without a mantel. A fireplace mantel finishes the look of the fireplace. In addition to the mantel itself, what you choose to decorate it with can add, or detract from the beauty of the home.

Fireplace mantels benefit from adornment. You can use clocks, candles, mirrors, photographs, or other objects to decorate with. The only limitation is your imagination. The mantel décor you choose will depend on the decorating you have in the rest of the room. Just as any other decorating element in the room, you will want to make sure it is cohesive with the theme of the rest of the room.

If you are having trouble deciding what and how many objects you should use in your decorating you may want to use the three plus one trick. The rule suggests using three objects on one side of the fireplace. These objects should vary only a little in size. You can also use related objects, or objects that fit within a certain theme. The objects can be the same as well. For example, using three candles of similar size and color. Next, on the opposite side of the mantel place one single object. This item should be similar in size (at least visually) to all three items (combined) on the other side. The single item can have something in common with the trio of items, whether it is color or theme.

Another item you may want to use in your decorating it a mantel scarf. These cloths drape beautifully on the shelf above your fireplace, a resemble table runners. Most scarves provide a more formal look. The overhang of the scarf depends on which you buy. Some drape over 12 inches, while others simply cover the top of the shelf.

In order to keep your decorating in time with the seasons you can buy scarves for various holidays. There are festive Christmas scarves in red and green, or Halloween scarves that look like black spider webbing. These scarves are an easy way to quickly decorate your home for any holiday. Of course there are scarves that are made for everyday use as well. Many are made of lace or are hand crocheted. There are many styles of scarves available; you can even find some with lights!

A wood mantel can provide decoration in itself. The wood may have intricate carvings or detailing that add to the décor of the room. Customer fireplace mantels may have especially beautiful woodwork. You’ll want to take that carving into consideration while decorating. If the wood has elaborate scrollwork, more formal objects might be more appropriate. If the design has more clean lines, you may want to consider more contemporary décor.

You attention to detail while decorating your fireplace will pay off. If you spend the time you can have a stunning display that adds to the beauty of your home.

Originally, clocks for mantel were key-wound. This means they are entirely mechanical and have to be wound about once a week to continue functioning. They will last for decades as long as they are properly cared for. Some of the care includes oiling every few years, and cleaning of the movements at least every ten years. There are still key-wound options available.

In more recent years have come about quartz mantel clocks, or battery operated. They are generally less expensive and never require winding. They are also more accurate. They do not require maintenance except replacing the battery as necessary. The original movement may last years, but can also be replaced when necessary. These clocks are now more common than the key-wound clocks.

Seth Thomas is an American clockmaker that has been around for almost two hundred years. Their most famous clock is one that is in Grand Central Station in New York City, but they also design clocks for mantels. A Seth Thomas mantel clock is a reputable option. Many of the designs are wood, although there are glass and various metal designs as well. Most of their clocks manufactured now are quartz.

You may be interested in a Bulova mantel clock. Bulova is also well-known for their watches. They offer both chiming and non-chiming clocks. Although they carry some traditional designs, they also provide more contemporary options as well. Most of their clocks are quarts operated.

A Howard Miller mantel clock is another fine option. Howard Miller’s focus in the early years was on clocks for mantels and chiming wall clocks, so you can be sure you will get a quality product. Their clocks are known for their incomparable workmanship. They provide both chiming and non-chiming options. If you are looking for a key-wound clock, Howard Miller may be the right place to look. They have a wide variety of key-wound clocks, in addition to some quartz clocks. Most designs are crafted from wood, but there are a few metal options as well. Their selection is broad to suit many different tastes.

You may be interested in purchasing an antique mantel clock. There are some stunning antique mantel clocks out there. You can spend thousands of dollars on these treasured timepieces, some of which are over a hundred years old. Be sure if you purchase antique that you are getting an authentic piece.

Whether you choose a more contemporary style, with the quartz convenience, or opt for a more traditional ornate, key-wound timepiece, a clock a-top your mantel is sure to look stunning and add to the beauty of your fireplace.

The fireplace mantel shelf is the flat, top portion of the fireplace. It is often constructed of the same material the surround is made of. Fireplace mantel shelves can be made of different materials.

A fireplace mantel can be constructed from various mediums. The most common thing used to construct a mantel is wood. This is likely because wood ranges from cheap to expensive, it is easy to carve, they are several types, and it is fairly lightweight. Some of the woods commonly use in mantel construction are maple, oak, pine, cherry and poplar. Wood provides great versatility because it can be painted, or stained.

Another material is stone. Marble provides a very elegant and classy look. It is more difficult to work with and you will likely need the assistance of a professional if you decide on this type of fireplace. Stone fireplace mantels may also look like river rocks, or slate. This provides a more rustic look, and is a great option for a cozy home or cabin.

Fireplace mantel designs vary greatly no matter what material you use to construct them. There are traditional designs and those that are more contemporary. Many of these designs have ornate carvings and detail work. The design you choose depends on the style of the room you put it. If you are starting from scratch you may use the mantel as inspiration for how you will decorate the rest of the room, or your entire home.

You still have more decided to do after you determine what material you want to use for your mantel. You have the option of purchasing a mantel that is already assembled and ready to be installed. One of the advantages of this is that you get to see the finished product before you purchase. You are able to know exactly what it will look like in your home.

Another option is to construct the mantel yourself. If you like home-improvement project you may like to do it that way. Just be sure you are familiar enough with the material you have chosen to work with. If constructing the mantle yourself seems to daunting of a task, there are kits you can purchase that just require assembly. These kits can save you money because you aren’t paying for the labor.

You may also decide to hire someone to build or install the mantel. One of the advantages of this is that you can see the construction every step of the way. It is easier to make alterations from what you have decided originally.

One thing is sure, fireplace mantels, add to the beauty of a home. They are a worthwhile investment and your mantel will be something you can enjoy for years to come.

Fireplace mantel shelves can be purchased separately, but they are often sold along with the fireplace, or the surround. An easy way to update your existing fireplace would be to replace the mantel shelf with something new. It’s amazing how much a new mantel shelf can improve the look of an outdated fireplace. Fireplace mantel shelves can even be used for decoration somewhere other than above the fireplace. There are some creative and stunning looks that can be produced using the shelving.

Wood fireplace mantel shelves are the most common. All types of wood are used for this application: pine, oak, cherry, etc. There are no limitations on what you can find. Wood can easily be carved with a simple or very ornate design. Wood shelves look great and can be matched with any sort of décor. In addition, they go well with many types of fireplaces. A stone fireplace can look great with a wood mantel shelf. They can be stained to the color of your choosing, or painted. A wood shelf that has been painted white can look very stunning up against a marble tile fireplace.

You can purchase these mantels finished, and add them to your fireplace. Also, you can find shelves that are unfinished that you can paint or stain how you wish. This may allow you to save money, but don’t forget to consider the amount of time you will need to spend finishing the product.

Stone fireplace mantel shelves are a little less common. This is likely because they generally cost more, and are more difficult to work with. This is partly because they are much heavier that wood shelves. One of the most common types of stone mantel shelves are cast-stone. This is a man made stone that has some benefits over natural stone. It is less expensive, and not as heavy.

Rustic fireplace mantel shelves are great on river rock or slate fireplaces. One great way to get a rustic look is to use your favorite type of wood, but leave it unfinished. Or, even slice a log in half, remove the bark and sand as needed, and use the log as the shelf.

Contemporary fireplace mantel shelves are pretty popular. What makes them contemporary is not only the material they are made of, but the design of the shelf. A lot of these modern shelves are made out of darker stained woods, or even metal. These styles generally include simple lines.

There are all sorts of fireplace mantle designs. Fireplace mantles can be found to suit contemporary, classical or traditional taste. You can choose the design that best suits the décor of your home. Depending on your needs you can purchase a mantle already constructed, build one yourself, or purchase and assemble a mantle kit.

You can find mantles already constructed in various material. The most common material used for a mantle is wood. There are wood mantles that are both painted and stained. If you prefer to see the grain of the wood, a stained mantle would be a good option for you. Wood mantles range greatly in price, but most are quite affordable. Marble is another material you can find some beautiful mantles in. Marble provides an elegance that is difficult to achieve with any other means. Marble may require special footings or other reinforcement before it can be installed. This, and the cost of the marble itself make it a more expensive option. You can also find an antique fireplace mantle that has been restored to its original beauty. Something to consider when purchasing a mantle that is pre-constructed is the size. If you have an existing fireplace you need to make sure you get all the proper measurement to ensure the mantle you purchase will properly fit the space.

If you don’t want to build an entire mantle yourself, you can find fireplace mantle kits. These kits come with all the pieces needed for the mantle. They are available in many shapes, materials and sizes. Buying a kit to assemble your mantle can save you money. It is a budget friendly option for those who don’t want to pay for a custom mantle.

Lastly, you can have some build you a custom mantle. This allows you to choose any material, or combination of materials you desire. It is a more costly option, but you can guarantee you will have an original piece.

After installing your mantle your work is not yet finished. You still have to choose fireplace mantel décor. Many people choose to put sentimental items on their fireplace mantle shelf. You can also put photographs, candles and other small decorative items. You can also hang a picture or mirror above the mantle. You can change up the decoration on your mantle as well. Consider using it to hold seasonal or holiday decorations. Remember when decorating above an on the mantle to want to increase the beauty of it, not distract from it.

Wood fireplace mantels provide warmth to the room. Wood is the most common material used for fireplace mantels. If you are looking for a do-it-yourself option, wood might be your best bet. You can purchase or carve your mantel to the specified dimension, and then install the mantel yourself as well. If cost is a concern for you, wood could be the best choice for material since you have the option of doing it yourself, and wood is relatively inexpensive. Wood fireplace mantels can also be stained virtually any color to match your current or desired décor. Wood can also be easily carved to achieve the look you desire.

Stone fireplace mantels are another option, although more costly than wood. The material itself is often more expensive than wood and it is likely to require a professional installer. Some natural stone choices to consider are marble, limestone, or granite, to name a few. You may also decide to use a man-made or cast stone for your mantel. The cost of a stone fireplace will vary greatly depending on the type of stone you decide to use. Cast stone is cheaper than natural, and limestone is usually the least expensive of the natural stone options. Unlike wood, a benefit of stone is that it is naturally fireproof.

Lastly, you have the option of a metal mantel. Metal fireplace mantels are far less common than either stone or wood. Metal can be a very modern style option. If you do choose metal, keep in mind that it conducts heat.

When choosing a material, consider the interior design of the room. This may affect the choice of material you use. For example, antique fireplace mantels are available in both wood and stone.

Once your fireplace mantel has been installed you get to decorate it to further complement the style of the room. Decorating fireplace mantels doesn’t need to be complicated. Some objects you can use to decorate the mantel include photos, candles, statues, or small boxes. Don’t forget to decorate the space above the mantel as well, whether it be a photo, mirror, or wall hanging. You may also want to consider adding fireplace mantels shelves. A principal often used when decorating fireplace mantels is the “three plus one” principal. The rule suggests placing three objects of similar, but not exact size and height on one side of the mantel. On the other side of the mantel, place one larger, related object. Don’t forget while selecting and decorating your fireplace mantel to tailor it to your taste and sense of style.

Wood fireplace mantles may be the most common. Wood can be fairly inexpensive, but still provide beauty. Wood can be left in its natural color or stained or painted to achieve the color you desire. The softer nature of wood also allows it to be carved with more ease than other materials.

Within stone fireplace mantles, many different styles can be attained. Whether you choose marble or limestone, stone can be a solid option. Stone stand up to wear well. The weight of stone will affect its installation and price. There will likely be supports to be placed before the mantle itself can be installed.

Antique fireplace mantles make a beautiful and valuable option. Antique mantles can be found in marble, or various types of wood. Antique mantles that have been worth preserving may have beautiful, hand crafted carving, and will certainly be unique. The Internet provides a great opportunity for you choose from a large variety of antique chooses. These mantles will likely take some restoration, unless someone else has already done that for you. The end result, however, can be stunning.

Another style you may want to consider is contemporary fireplace mantles. Concrete can provide a very contemporary look. To assure the look is truly contemporary, consider more than just the material, but the shape of the mantle.

Rustic fireplace mantles provide a cozy attraction to a home. Rustic mantles could be made of some types of wood, or of natural stones. If using wood, consider leaving it unfinished, or for a cabin look, use logs.

If you are putting the mantle in a room that already has an existing style, stick with it. You want the mantle to complement, not compete with the look of the room. If you are starting a room from scratch, consider your personal style, and what you would want to look at every day. Often fireplace mantles become the focal point of the room, many people arrange their furniture so it is facing the mantle, it seems only natural.

Not only should the mantle itself be beautiful to look at, but carefully consider the objects you choose to decorate the mantle with. You may choose memorabilia, and other items you treasure, or simply items you feel are beautiful. Leaving a mantle to stand on its own, it may look like something is missing, but on the other hang, you don’t want to overcrowd the mantle and distract from its beauty.

Beautiful fireplace mantels can be constructed or purchased that are made of marble, limestone, or oak, to name a few. Each material has its benefits and drawbacks. Be sure the material you choose to construct your mantel meets your design and architectural needs. A heavy marble mantel, for example may need special footings or foundations to maintain structural integrity.

A mantel can be purchased already constructed. This option allows you to see the finished product before purchasing, which is a benefit. When purchasing an already constructed mantel, be sure the dimensions fit your fireplace. You certainly don’t want to fall in love with a mantel, buy it, and take it home only to realize it doesn’t fit the fireplace.

If you are handy, and like don’t mind a project, you may also choose to build the fireplace mantel yourself. The mantel can be painted, stained or carved how you desire. This option allows you to save money, ensure the mantel is made to your exact specifications, and create a unique piece. A wood fireplace mantel may be the easiest to do yourself.

For those you don’t mind a little assembly, but don’t trust themselves with the entire project, you can purchase mantel kits, which include all the necessary components and only require some assembly.

Lastly, you can hire a professional to make you a custom fireplace mantel. Depending on what you desire this option could be the most expensive, but you can get exactly what you want, out of the material you want, and not have to worry about doing the work yourself.

Not only does a fireplace mantel add beauty and style to a room, but it also provides a place to put further decoration. The items you choose to place on or above the mantel should be in keeping with the theme of the room. You may choose to install fireplace mantel shelves, instead of a full mantelpiece, which would still allow you to display memorabilia or decorating elements. Avoid overcrowding the mantel. You want to add to, not distract from its beauty with the pieces you choose to display.

Fireplace mantel designs are endless. Whether you choose a modern design with straight lines made out of slate or to refurbish an antique mantel and install it in your home, the mantel will play an important part of your decorating scheme.