When we moved into our 1908 farmhouse, I loved the charm so much. However, there was SO much dark wood. If you’re someone who would never paint it, avert your eyes for I’m about to share how I lightened the space. I want to show you how I achieved a farmhouse style fireplace mantel in 5 easy steps!
There are many architectural details in this house and it’s one of the main reasons I wanted to move here. I saw the potential. But I’m a gal who loves paint and light and bright spaces. I decorated the mantel after moving in and lived with it for a while before deciding to paint it.
Farmhouse Style Fireplace Mantel Before
Pretty right? But, it never really felt like “me”. It was so dark. I added that mirror on top because I saw it and fell in love. It added some great detail. But all that wood just darkened it even more.
I decided to milk paint the wood to add that farmhouse feel. I started by cleaning it really well. I use a de-greaser because I find that helps the paint adhere better. Just make sure you are letting it completely dry prior to painting. I learned this the hard way. As I often do in life.
Then, I painted the brick with a flat black paint. I didn’t want glossy. It took only one coat for good coverage but I had to do some touch ups after.
Farmhouse Style Mantel During Paint
I decided to use Milk Paint on the wood to get that chippy, aged look. Miss Mustard Seed Milk Paint is so fun to work with and gives me the look I want. I had a few light colors that I mixed together as I didn’t have enough of just one. I love that I can create new colors with her line. She has so many neutral colors to choose from too.
It took three coats total of the milk paint and I let it dry completely and then began chipping away at it! That’s my favorite part of milk paint. You never know how it will look. You can add a bonding agent if you don’t want it chip but I never have. I like to live life on the edge.
Milk Painting The Mantel White for That Farmhouse Vibe
I sealed the wood with some clear wax and buffed it really well. You can also use Miss Mustard Seeds Hemp oil to seal. Either provide an amazing finish. She has many tutorials on her blog if you’re interested in seeing the before and afters.
After everything was dry, I started added the decor pieces. Everything I used for this farmhouse style fireplace makeover I already had on hand. SO, this whole project cost me the $8 for the black paint since that’s the only thing I didn’t already have.
Used my existing wreath to add texture and greenery. It makes a subtle statement and can be used year round, in my opinion.
I love how much brighter and lighter this room feels. Sometimes all it takes it a little paint to completely transform a room and that’s usually where I start on any room makeover.
What are the 5 easy steps for a farmhouse style fireplace makeover?
- Clean the Fireplace
- Paint the Fireplace
- Age the paint by scraping or sanding
- Seal the paint
- and finally.. add your DECOR! That’s the fun part right?
BONUS TIP: Use Greenery and texture like baskets to add depth and dimension. I also often recommend decorating in odd numbers. 3 books, 5 candles, you get the idea. Happy Decorating friends!
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This is a great transformation! I also like how you decorated the mantel. Beautiful contrast between the wreath and the ironstone.
I love how you painted the fireplace! It looks like it fits in now! And that chair next to it really adds character! Fabulous job! ??
Thank you so much Leigh!
I love how you styled the baskets on the wall! Adds great dimension!
Thank you Madison!
What a great makeover and the way you styled it is perfection! I love the new look.
THank you Ann Marie!
What a wonderful transformation………..it looks great…..
and love how you styled your mantel and wall, definitely
looks more modern farmhouse now. Love the lighter
look.
Blessings,
Nellie
Thank you so much Nellie!
So beautiful, thanks for linking up to Inspire Me Monday!
Thank you Kristin!
Visiting here from the Bloggers Pit. This turned out so well! I love the new look!
Thank you so much! I really appreciate it!
The fireplace makeover looks great. I know people shudder at the thought of painting woodwork but I agree with you. I like white and bright.
Thank you Debra! I know so many people don’t love painted everything but I love lightening spaces with paint!
These look totally inspiring and beautiful…Thanks for sharing
http://www.simpleindianmom.in/top-10-tips-sound-sleep-pregnancy/
Thank you so much!
Beautiful transformation–love your new look. I agree, lighter is better! Thanks for linking up your project with us at Vintage Charm 🙂
Thank you Diana! Thanks for hosting!
I love the painted fireplace! Beautiful transformation! Thanks for sharing at the Friday at the Fire Station link-up!
Thank you and thanks so much for hosting!
Love how fresh it looks now Laura. Great transformation!!
Thank you for sharing at Create, Bake, Grow & Gather this week. I’m delighted to be featuring this project at tonight’s party and I pinned it too.
Oh my gosh! Thank you so much Kerryanne!!