A fireplace can not only provide warmth to your home during the winter but also add a cozy and luxurious touch to your living space. Whether you have a fireplace in your home that needs a makeover or you are planning to install a new one, these DIY fireplace ideas can be both fun and budget-friendly. 

collage of photos showing diy fireplace ideas from this post

 

From rustic to modern fireplace designs, we’ve got you covered with our awesome DIY fireplace projects that you can easily try out on a weekend. Let’s take a closer look!

DIY Electric Fireplaces

Electric fireplaces are all the rage these days – here are some ideas to try. 

1. Wall-Mounted Electric Fireplace

If you have limited space but still want the cozy feel of a traditional fireplace, a wall-mounted electric fireplace might just be the perfect choice for you. These fireplaces are mounted onto the wall and do not take up any floor space. Available on multiple on retailers like Mayfair, they come in a variety of sizes and styles, from sleek and modern to rustic and traditional. 

Here’s a guide for how to frame and install the fireplace.

 

2. Faux Mantel Electric Fireplace

If you want the look of a traditional fireplace but do not have one, you can create a faux mantel electric fireplace that works just as well. All you need is a mantel or shelf and an electric fireplace insert. You can also add decorative accents like candles, picture frames, or plants to make it look more authentic.

screenshot of a YouTube video showing how to build a faux fireplace

This is a great DIY project that can be done in a weekend and will give your space a cozy and inviting feel. This video will walk you through the process. Alternatively, you can buy an electric fireplace that already has a frame and mantel with it like this one.

 

3. Bookshelf Fireplace

If you have bookshelves in your home, you can easily transform them into an electric fireplace with some simple modifications. All you need is an electric fireplace insert, some wood, and some basic woodworking tools. 

white living room wall with built in shelving and an electric fireplace with wooden mantle shelf in the middle

Here’s a simple guide.

 

4. TV Stand Fireplace 

If you have a TV stand that is large enough, you can transform it into an electric fireplace with an insert. Many TV stands come with built-in shelves that are perfect for displaying decorative items like candles or pictures. You can add an electric fireplace insert to the bottom of the stand to create a cozy ambiance while you watch TV. 

wide electric fireplace installed beneath flat screen tv on black accent wall background

I’ve even seen TV stands that have electric fireplaces already built in- here’s one on Wayfair.

 

DIY Faux Fireplaces

not all fireplaces have to be the real deal. Instead of a full DIY fireplace project, Here are some fun DIY faux fireplaces to try:

5. Stone Veneer Fireplace

If you have a wood-burning fireplace and want to give it a makeover, adding a stone veneer can be a game-changer. A stone veneer is basically a thin layer of natural stone that can be easily affixed over your existing fireplace. Here’s a tutorial to give you an idea of how to do it (and some gorgeous picks so you can see what you’re getting yourself into). 

fireplace with stone veneer and wooden mantle shelf

 

This design idea is ideal for those who want to achieve a rustic or classic look in their home. You can choose from a variety of stone veneers like limestone, granite, or marble to create the perfect look for your fireplace.

 

6. DIY Mantel Shelf

Though not technically the fireplace itself, the mantel is what draws many homeowners to want to DIY this kind of project in the first place. A mantel shelf can add a lot of character to your fireplace and give it a personalized touch. Building a mantel shelf is easier than you might think and can be done with just a few basic supplies. You can use reclaimed wood, shelves, or even a solid block of wood to create this look. before and after photos showing a plain electric fireplace installed in a flat wall versus the same electric fireplace framed with decorative tile, a wooden mantle shelf, and shiplap above mantle

Think about the type of decor you want to display on the shelf and make sure it complements your overall interior design style as you plan out your project. 

 

7. Painted Brick Fireplace

If you aren’t looking for full DIY fireplace ideas, this one’s for you. Another cost-effective way to update your fireplace is to paint on some faux bricks. A coat of paint can go a long way in transforming an outdated fireplace into a modern statement piece. 

a former fireplace, now framed empty fireplace with faux painted brick on wall

You can go for a monochromatic look or add some contrast by painting the bricks in a contrasting color to your wall. If you want to add some texture, consider using a dry brush or sponge technique to create a rustic effect. 

Here’s a tutorial.

 

8. Our project- an easy faux fireplace

You may recognize this one, because it’s one of our own projects from a while back! For more ideas like this one, you can also check out our whole list of DIY faux fireplaces we put together.

Easy DIY Faux Fireplace

 

DIY Outdoor Fireplace ideas

Sitting by a fire outside has to be one of the best ways to spend a chilly evening in the fall. If your backyard is lacking a fireplace, consider adding one!

9. DIY Stone outdoor fireplace

Go for a classic fireplace look to create a an outdoor living space. Romanstone has an in-depth guide on how to put together one of their fireplace kits, and The Spruce has a more basic guide on how to DIY this type of fireplace to get a similar look.

an outdoor living space with a fireplace
Photo source: The Spruce

 

10. DIY fire pit

We had to include one more of projects! Find this DIY fire pit tutorial over on our sister blog, The Garden Glove. We have even more similar ideas on a post we did to show some inspiration for this project. Click here to check it out!

a simple fire pit mad with concrete blocks with a fire burning inside

 

Enjoy your cozy DIY fireplace!

You don’t have to break the bank to get that wonderful and cozy feeling of a fireplace. Our DIY fireplace ideas give you a range of options to choose from to create a perfectly styled fireplace that is suitable for your home, apartment, or rental space. So turn down the lights, share some cocoa, and snuggle up under a blanket with your loved ones.

Ready to lean into the season? Check out our posts on fall decor, decorating with pumpkins and gourds, and DIY candles for a fun fall/winter craft!

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