Would you like to add instant character and texture to your living room? Putting together an easy DIY faux fireplace is a simple and inexpensive way to level up the cozy in your space. Check out this plaster look faux fireplace tutorial that will instantly cozy up an room.
Check out the video tutorial!
Before, our living room was bor to the ing. I had planned on this though, and actually started to draw up ideas for a faux fireplace before our house was even completed. And since wood prices are through the roof, I created a plan to use sheetrock and plaster for a rustic and textured final look.
The Frame
Step one is to create a frame. 1×2 lumber is very inexpensive and more that sturdy enough for this project. You can customize the dimensions of your frame based on your own space.
Create two almost identical front and back frame pieces. Connect the front and back pieces with short 4.5 inch long blocks of 1×2. If you plan to use a 4×6 post as a mantel, you won’t want your faux fireplace box to be more than 5 inches in depth to allow for a slight overlap from the mantel.
Also, if you would like replicate the chevron look, you will want to add nailer pieces to the back frame as demonstrated above.
Sheetrock and Plaster
Next, cover the entire frame with 1/2 inch sheetrock. We are using sheetrock because it can be plastered over and is a much cheaper option than plywood.
To add a lot of texture to the fireplace, we will be mixing drywall mud with a bit of all purpose sand. However, if you want to achieve a smoother look, skip the sand.
Lightly, smear the mud over the entire faux fireplace. Be sure not to press too hard and work the mud in multiple directions.
When you’re done plastering, you should be left with a nicely textured box. Use a little sandpaper to touch up any overly rough edges or mud lines, then paint your fireplace. I used Alabaster by Sherwin Williams for my easy DIY faux fireplace.
Installation
Once the fireplace body is finished, you can install the mantel. I used a 4×6 pine post as my mantel and stained it with Varathane’s Golden Oak. The mantel can be screwed to the body of the fireplace through the top frame boards.
Attach the faux fireplace to the wall using the back “nailer” board. You can use wall anchors or screw directly into a stud. I go into more detail in the the video about this process.
To add even more texture and a bit of rustic charm, I added a chevron detail using scrap pallet wood.
Cozied Up
Finally, it was time to sit back and enjoy the cozy vibes in our living room.
If you notice the wall color changing, that’s because I tried to branch out… but just couldn’t. So here we are white walled again.
Some battery operated candles give it the feel of a real fireplace.
Find more DIY inspiration on the blog!
