The project I’ve wanted to complete for years is finally finished.
Our federal colonial house deserved a fireplace that matched its architecture, so we gave the simple mantel a traditional molding makeover—just in time for the holidays.
The original mantel was perfectly serviceable, but after eight years it needed a fresh coat of paint. We decided to take the opportunity to add architectural detail that would better suit the home’s style.
Related: DIY-able Wall Molding Ideas to Add Character to Your Home
How to Add Traditional Molding to a Mantel
This is a manageable weekend project — the whole mantel makeover can be completed in two days if you plan and prepare. It’s a practical update for a dated mantel and brings authentic Federal Colonial character to the room.
All the materials used in our project totaled $393 (power tools not included). There are cost-saving ways to adapt the project if you don’t own a compound miter saw; see the alternatives listed below.
Supplies
- Pair of Ekena Millwork 2 in. x 6 in. x 72 in. fluted PVC pilaster moulding
- 2 pieces of 3/4 in. x 5-1/4 in. x 8 ft. MDF fluted casing
- 4 pieces of 1 in. D x 1 in. W x 48 in. L primed traditional hardwood panel moulding
- 16 linear feet of 1/2 in. x 3/4 in. solid pine S4S molding
- Ekena Millwork Dublin wreath onlay
- Two Ekena Millwork Ashford oval rosettes (approx. 5/8 in. x 3 in. x 4-1/4 in.)
- 1 in. x 12 in. x 16 in. edge-glued hardwood for center block
- Heavy-duty construction adhesive
- Latex caulk
- Bonding primer
- Behr Cabinet Doors & Trim Enamel in Even Better Beige (we used this color)
- Fine-grit sandpaper
- Tape measure
- Level
- Pry bar
Tools
- Power drill/driver
- 23-gauge pin nailer
- Compact router kit (optional but gives a more finished look)
- Compound miter saw (recommended for speed and accuracy)
Cheaper Power Tool Alternatives
If you’d like to save money on tools, you can complete this job using a miter box and hand saw. Cuts will take longer, but it’s entirely feasible.
A circular saw is a mid-range alternative that can handle most straight cuts; for precise mitered corners you may still need a miter box. The compound miter saw remains the fastest option, but you can also rent one for the weekend.
Related: DIY Fireplace Ideas You Can Make Anywhere
We started by creating a clean surface to work on: the existing trim beneath the mantel shelf was removed with a pry bar so the new molding could be installed without obstruction.
How to Add Pilaster and Plinth to Mantel Leg
- Measure the mantel leg from the hearth up to the shelf to determine the length of your pilaster pieces.
2. Cut the pilaster molding into two pieces by making an angled cut in the middle with the miter saw so the two halves will join cleanly around the mantel leg.
3. Attach the top half of the pilaster to the mantel leg. Pre-drill holes at the plinth area, then fasten the molding to the facing leg with screws. Countersink and fill later for a clean finish.
4. Repeat the attachment process for the bottom section of the pilaster so the two pieces meet neatly at the center.
5. Repeat steps 1–4 on the opposite mantel leg to mirror the look.
Adding a Fluted Mantel Header
- Measure the width of the header space between the two mantel legs to determine the length of the header pieces.
2. Cut two pieces of square molding to the measured width—one for the top position and one for the bottom of the header box.
3. Use a level to draw a guide line between the mantel legs. Position the top square molding about 1 inch below the shelf to maintain proportion and shadow lines.
4. Attach the two square molding pieces to your guide lines using a pin nailer so they form the top and bottom edges of a rectangular header box.
6. Measure the vertical distance between the top and bottom square molding pieces.
7. Cut two more square molding pieces to that vertical measurement to form the sides of the header box.
8. Cut several pieces of fluted casing to that same height so the fluted pattern will fill the box.
9. Trim the fluted casing ends as needed so the channels line up and the fluting reads continuously across the header.
10. Attach the side square moldings to make a framed box, then install the fluted casing inside that frame with the pin nailer so the flutes sit flush and even.
12. Using your miter saw or a miter box and hand saw, add the 1-inch traditional panel molding just under the shelf and wrap the plinth block with the same molding for a cohesive profile. Small gaps are normal—good quality caulk handles most imperfections.
How to Attach Onlays
1. Mark the center of each plinth block with a pencil so your decorative onlays are perfectly centered.
2. Secure the onlays to the plinth blocks using heavy-duty construction adhesive—press firmly and allow the adhesive to cure per the manufacturer’s instructions.
3. Craft a center block from the edge-glued hardwood to fit over the fluted header. This adds a focal point for the wreath onlay and elevates the traditional look.
4. For a more refined appearance, route the edges of the center block to add profile and depth. This step is optional but enhances the classical feel.
5. Attach the hardwood block to the header center using screws and pre-drilled holes. Countersink and fill screw holes for a smooth finish.
6. Affix the wreath onlay to the block with construction adhesive, pressing it into place and allowing adequate curing time.
7. After all adhesives have dried, caulk every seam and fill pin holes and screw holes with wood filler.
8. When the filler is dry, sand smooth for a seamless appearance.
9. Prime and paint the entire mantel. We used a cabinet and trim enamel for durable, smooth coverage.
Finished Federal Colonial Style Fireplace Molding
I’m thrilled with how the mantel turned out. The traditional details complement the colonial architecture of our home and tie the room together visually.
In a rush to finish, I picked Behr Even Better Beige for the paint color. It turned out lighter than I expected, but I like how it creates a soft contrast against our white walls (Benjamin Moore Swiss Coffee), letting the moldings read clearly without being stark.
Related: DIY Lime Washed Brick Fireplace – Easy Tutorial
We decorated immediately for the season using my favorite pine garland. I debated covering the new detail with stockings, and I may instead move stocking display to another fireplace so these moldings remain visible.
I’m considering painting the fireplace screen with high-heat gold spray paint to complement the trim—another small update that will enhance the classic look.
Living Room Decor Sources
- Bobbin bezel TV frame
- Samsung Frame TV
- Limewashed brick fireplace
- Norfolk pine garland
- Nordic pine Christmas tree
- Juniper stems
- Decorative vase
- Rattan tray
- Gold sconce lights
- Rattan sconce shades
- Burgundy ribbon
- Leather recliner chairs
- Slipcovered sofas
- Rug (ours is vintage)
- Coffee table books
- Fireplace screen (similar)
- Pinkie and Blue Boy art
More DIY Molding Ideas
- How to Install DIY Stair Wainscoting the Easy Way
- DIY-able Wall Molding Ideas to Add Character to Your Home
- DIY Fireplace Ideas You Can Make Anywhere
