Attractive Fireplace Mantel

poplar lumber
circular saw
router table with chamfer bit
wood glue
finish nails
jigsaw with a scroll blade
double-sided tape
sandpaper
wall anchors
scrap paper
square drawer pulls
button caps
caulk
prime
paint
paintbrushes
drill
screws

Steps:

1. Cut a 1x8 for the front plate to the length of the hearth opening. Cut a 1x6 piece one inch longer than the length of the 1x8. Use a router table and a chamfer bit to bevel a 1/4-inch detail along the edge and sides of each piece. Connect the two pieces at a ninety-degree angle with wood glue and finishing nails.

3. To make the decorative brackets for each end, first sketch the desired design on a piece of paper to use as a template. Put double-sided tape between the two pieces of lumber so they can be cut at the same time so they're identical. Trace the design onto the lumber and cut it out using a jigsaw with a scroll blade attached (cut as close as possible to the line). Sand the pieces smooth using the pencil lines as a guide and separate the boards.

4. To build up the top shelf, cut a 1x8 with a 1-1/2-inch reveal and make the same routed bevel on the edges. For more interest, add square drawer pulls along the front plate. Place the entire assembly against the wall; secure it using wall anchors and hide the screws with button caps.

5. Caulk around the edges; prime and paint the piece as desired.