Shopsmith Forums

For my first project once I get my '55 Greenie SS up and running, I want to build a mantel to go around my fireplace. I figured a good way to justify the ShopSmith expense is to build the wife something she really wants and I KNOW she REALLY wants to replace current mantel.

Can any of you recommed a good resource for either purchased or free design plan that would have several mantel designs to choose from?

If things continue to go as well as they have been, (thanks to this forum and the SS website), I will be ready to start making sawdust in about a month.

Mickyd,
I did a simple Google search ("mantle plans") and came up with hundreds of hits.
Dick

http://www.freeww.com
http://www.freeww.com/fireplacemantels.html

The site has both free and links to paid plans of every sort - click on the "a to z" listing.

I usually start with a google search. I recently purchased a mantel for my kids. The google search gave plenty of places for plans. Also there were many pictures that could easily be turned into plans. I often look at plans from U-bild for projects. In this case, I saw a picture of about what I wanted, and did a simple sketch on graph paper for a general idea, and for size. I then went to Integrity Lumber (near my home) to see about ordering the wood I would need. Seeing their display of mantels, I opted to give them the picture and pick up the unfinished oak mantel the following week. Ok, I gave in, but I did do the stain and mounting work.

Mike
I built the mantel in Wood magzine, Fabulous Fireplace Surround Woodworking Plan. I believe it was in the Fireplace Surround Dec 1997 issue 101 page 60.
http://www.woodstore.net/fabfirsurwoo.html
The project turned out nice.
This is my first reply hope it works.
Jerry

Hi Mike,

You have been given some good ideas. Please allow me to add one. Keep in mind that I usually build to my own plans, so this is what I might do. Take your camera along with the LOYL to some fireplace stores, friends' homes, or somewhere else that has a mantel that she likes. Take pictures. Measurements are knot really required, as you will have to build your mantel to your fireplace, knot theirs. With pictures and measurements of your fireplace, you should be able to design what you like on paper, make a materials list, and then build it.

Hi Mike,

I usually reach for a book. I did a search on Amazon.com for "fireplace mantel" and saw about a half-dozen books with plans, and a few more that were just design ideas. They also have pictures of several mantels that are for sale to use for ideas. The Woodcraft that I work for usually stocks a few books as well.

My son will be comming out to the Pendelton Marine base for Field Medic training in a few weeks. I'm sure he is expecting nice warm sun after a winter in Chicago. So would you please let the sun back out? :-)

Tim's idea of a camera is a good idea.
When traveling, I always have my cell phone with photo capability with me, and usually a camera, note pad and key chain tape measure. When we see things that have potential, I take a couple of photos and some quick measurements. I try to photo construction aspects, not just the overall view.

I personally find that I prefer detailed prints and designs vs. photos of stuff I like. Detail prints and design with narrative text is even better. I guess it's just the way my brain processes data. I am sure that once I get some experience under my belt, I would be able to graduate to the camera method of point, shoot, design, and make sawdust but right now, depending on the complexity, I need all the info I can get. Still taking baby steps for sure.

nothing wrong with baby steps: that's why I try to photo or sketch construction aspects like type of joints, location of hinges, etc.