Want to add a cozy touch to your home without the hassle of a real fireplace? A fake fireplace might be just what you need! These DIY projects can bring warmth and charm to any room.
You can make a faux fireplace that looks real without spending a lot of money or time. There are many ways to create one, from simple wooden mantels to more complex builds with electric inserts. Let’s explore some creative ideas for making your own fake fireplace to suit your style and space.
In this article, we'll cover
- 1. Cardboard Fireplace
- 2. Rustic Barnwood Mantel
- 3. Stone Veneer Fireplace
- 4. Pallet Wood Design
- 5. Vintage Suitcase Faux Fireplace
- 6. Brick Wallpaper Accent
- 7. Bookshelf Conversion
- 8. Decorative Candle Display
- 9. Faux Chimney Topper
- 10. Electric Fireplace Insert
- 11. Plaster and Stucco Finish
- 12. Painted Brick Facade
- 13. Marble Contact Paper
- 14. Shiplap Paneling
- 15. Repurposed Antique Mantel
- 16. LED Log Set
- 17. Decorative Tile Surround
- 18. Glam Metallic Finish
- 19. Country-Style Painted Wood
- 20. Minimalist Concrete Look
1. Cardboard Fireplace
Want a cozy fireplace without the hassle? Try making one from cardboard! It’s a fun and easy DIY project. All you need are some boxes, tape, and decorative paper.
Cut the cardboard to shape your fireplace. Cover it with wood-patterned contact paper for a realistic look. Add a mantel using pizza boxes wrapped in the same paper.
2. Rustic Barnwood Mantel
Want to add rustic charm to your room? A barnwood mantel is perfect. You can make one using old wood or new boards aged to look weathered.
Sand the wood lightly to smooth splinters. Stain it for a darker look or leave it natural. Attach it to your wall with sturdy brackets.
Add some candles or vintage decor to complete the cozy look.
3. Stone Veneer Fireplace
Want to add a touch of natural beauty to your fake fireplace? Try using stone veneer! This easy DIY option gives you the look of real stone without the weight or cost.
You can find lightweight faux stone panels that snap together for quick installation. They come in various colors and styles to match your decor. Some even have built-in grooves for a realistic stacked stone look.
To install, simply apply adhesive to the back of each panel and press onto your fireplace surround. Work from top to bottom to avoid drips. In just a day, you’ll have a stunning stone fireplace focal point!
4. Pallet Wood Design
Want a rustic look for your fake fireplace? Try using pallet wood! It’s cheap and easy to find. You can often get pallets for free from local businesses.
Take apart the pallets and sand the boards smooth. Arrange them in a pattern you like around your electric fireplace insert. You can stain or paint the wood to match your decor.
Add a mantel shelf on top for a finishing touch. Your new pallet fireplace will give your room a cozy, cabin-like feel.
5. Vintage Suitcase Faux Fireplace
Want a unique twist on a fake fireplace? Try using a vintage suitcase! This fun DIY project adds charm and character to any room.
Start by finding an old suitcase at a thrift store or flea market. Open it up and mount it on the wall. Inside, you can add faux logs, candles, or string lights for a cozy glow.
Paint the outside to match your decor or leave it as-is for a rustic look. Add a small shelf on top to display knick-knacks. Your guests will love this creative conversation piece!
6. Brick Wallpaper Accent
Want a brick fireplace without the mess? Try brick wallpaper! It’s an easy way to get the look you love. You can find peel-and-stick options that are simple to apply.
Choose a style that matches your room. Red brick gives a cozy feel, while white brick looks clean and modern. Stick the wallpaper carefully for a realistic effect.
7. Bookshelf Conversion
Want to add a cozy fireplace without the hassle? Try turning a bookshelf into a faux fireplace. Pick a bookcase that fits your space and remove some shelves to create an opening.
Paint the inside black or add faux brick panels for a realistic look. Place an electric fireplace insert or LED candles in the opening to mimic flames.
Add a mantel on top to complete the look. You can decorate it with books, plants, or seasonal items. This clever DIY project gives you both storage and ambiance.
8. Decorative Candle Display
A candle display can turn your fake fireplace into a cozy focal point. Place different sized candles in the fireplace opening for a warm glow. You can use real or flameless candles, depending on your preference.
Try arranging them on a tray or in lanterns for added style. Mix and match colors and heights to create visual interest.
9. Faux Chimney Topper
Add a touch of charm to your fake fireplace with a faux chimney topper. You can craft one using lightweight materials like foam board or thin wood.
Paint it to look like brick or stone for a realistic appearance. Place it above your faux fireplace to create the illusion of a real chimney.
This simple addition can make your DIY fireplace look more complete and authentic.
10. Electric Fireplace Insert
Want a cozy fire without the hassle? Try an electric fireplace insert. These easy-to-install units fit right into existing fireplaces or custom surrounds.
You can find inserts in many sizes and styles. Some have realistic flame effects and even crackling sounds. They give off heat too, perfect for chilly nights.
11. Plaster and Stucco Finish
Want to give your fake fireplace a smooth, elegant look? Try a plaster or stucco finish. These materials can transform a plain surface into something special.
You can apply plaster or stucco directly to brick or wood. It’s a great way to cover up imperfections and create a clean, uniform appearance.
For a DIY project, you can buy ready-made stucco or mix your own. Remember to use a bonding agent first to help it stick better.
12. Painted Brick Facade
Want to give your fake fireplace a fresh look? Try painting the brick facade! This easy DIY project can transform your space.
Pick a color that matches your decor. White brightens things up, while black adds drama.
Clean the bricks first, then apply primer. Use a roller for even coverage. Add 2-3 coats of paint for best results.
13. Marble Contact Paper
Want a fancy marble fireplace without the high cost? Try using marble contact paper! This cheap and easy trick can give your fireplace a luxe makeover.
You can find marble contact paper at dollar stores or online. It’s simple to apply – just peel and stick. Smooth out any bubbles as you go.
This works great for non-working fireplaces. For safety, don’t use it on active fireplaces. The paper transforms plain surfaces into elegant marble-look focal points.
14. Shiplap Paneling
Shiplap paneling can give your fake fireplace a charming, rustic look. You can easily create this style with wooden boards and some basic tools.
Start by measuring your fireplace area. Cut the boards to fit, leaving small gaps between them for that classic shiplap look.
Paint the boards white for a clean, bright appearance. Or leave them natural for a more rustic feel. Attach the boards to your fireplace wall with nails or adhesive.
15. Repurposed Antique Mantel
Looking for a unique fireplace feature? Try repurposing an antique mantel. You can find old mantels at salvage yards or antique shops.
Clean up your chosen mantel and give it new life with paint or stain. White washing is a popular technique that lets the wood grain show through.
Mount your repurposed mantel on a wall to create a faux fireplace focal point. Add candles or an electric insert for a cozy touch.
16. LED Log Set
Want a cozy fireplace glow without the mess? Try an LED log set! These fake logs use lights to mimic real flames. You can place them in your empty fireplace for a warm ambiance.
LED log sets come in different sizes and styles. Some have remote controls to adjust brightness and flicker speed. They’re safe, clean, and easy to use.
17. Decorative Tile Surround
Want to make your fake fireplace pop? Try adding a decorative tile surround! You can use colorful ceramic tiles, sleek marble, or even patterned cement tiles.
Pick tiles that match your room’s style. Arrange them in a fun pattern around the firebox opening. This easy DIY project will give your faux fireplace a custom, high-end look.
18. Glam Metallic Finish
Want to add some sparkle to your fake fireplace? Try a glam metallic finish! Paint your DIY fireplace surround with gold, silver, or copper metallic paint.
You can also use metallic wallpaper or stick-on tiles for extra shine. This eye-catching look will make your faux fireplace the star of any room.
19. Country-Style Painted Wood
Want to add a cozy country feel to your home? Try a painted wood faux fireplace. Pick a soft, muted color like sage green or light blue. Use distressed or weathered wood for extra charm.
Add some decorative touches like mason jars or vintage signs above the mantel. You can even paint faux bricks inside for a realistic look.
20. Minimalist Concrete Look
Want a sleek, modern fireplace? Try a faux concrete look. Mix paint with joint compound to create a concrete-like texture. Apply it to your existing fireplace surround with a trowel.
Add depth by layering different shades of gray. You can even add subtle patterns or smooth it out for a polished finish. This DIY project gives you an expensive look without the high cost.