Step 1: Before cutting materials, measure the exact width of the
underside of the mantel from inside edge
to inside edge. Each mantel is custom made, and you will want your base
to fit snugly against it. This will determine the width of the front panel.
The mantel pictured here begins with a 74 1/2 x 33" front panel.
Step
2:
Cut all other materials per list.
Step
3:
Attach side panels to front panel using wood glue and 2 1/2", 8d
finishing nails. Set aside for glue to dry. This will be the base of the
headboard.
Step
4: (Note:
Steps 4 and 6 require at least two people.) Place the mantel upside down
on a flat work surface, and position the base on the underside flush with
the front inside edges, or lip, of the mantel. Trace with a pencil along
the base to indicate where the cleat
needs to be attached. This should be approximately 3/4" from the
front and two sides of the mantel lip.
Step
5: Attach a 2 x 2 cleat along the guideline with wood glue
and 8d sinker nails placed 6 inches apart. Allow to dry.
Step
6:
Reposition base on the underside of mantel, and attach to the cleat, nailing
from the front of the base into the cleat with 8d finishing nails every
6".
Step
7:
Miter and attach picture moulding on the front using 4d finishing nails.
Step
8:
Countersink
nails, fill holes with wood putty, and then sand.
Step
9:
Prime and paint headboard to match the room's decor. For the look of the
one pictured, begin with a coat of Valspar, Belle Grove Light
Amber #94-1B, satin. Next, dilute some mocha glaze with water, and brush
it on generously. Wipe away some of the glaze with smooth clean cotton
rags. Apply a second layer to darken the glaze. The more layers applied,
the more aged the headboard will appear.
Step
10:
Allow to dry for 24 hours. Apply a coat of polyurethane to protect the
finish.
Step
11:
Hang the headboard per manufacturer's instructions for mounting mantel.
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