Applied Pine Board Fireplace Mantel

Attach the legs to the top board on the back side, using pocket holes if you have a jig, or glue and finish nails if not.

Attach the back depth board and back blocking pieces to bring the mantel out to full depth.

Lay the crown moulding against the front assembly to check placement, then attach the front trim pieces to reveal about 2-1/2" below where the crown will sit.

Glue the front decorative pieces in place rather than nailing them, since nails can split this thin stock.

Nail the side trim boards on, keeping outside edges flush.

Cut the crown moulding to fit and attach around the top, mitering the outside corners.

Cut the edge moulding to fit the inset square on the front face and glue in place.

Sand all surfaces and apply primer and paint, or stain and poly.