If you are thinking about a false fireplace, in our article you will find the most detailed instructions on how to create a false fireplace with your own hands from plasterboard, wood, polystyrene foam, as well as a huge number of photos of false fireplaces in the interior for inspiration.
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False fireplace made of plasterboard: step-by-step assembly instructions
The first stage is preparation of tools and materials
Tools and materials for work
Start by preparing your kit for work. First of all, you will need the drywall itself. When choosing a material, be guided by the features of the selected finishing cladding. If you plan to finish with tiles, it is better to buy a moisture-resistant modification of drywall.
Types of guides for drywall
Profiles
To fasten the frame elements, buy self-tapping screws. The recommended length of the fasteners is 1.4-1.6 cm. You also need to buy self-tapping screws with a countersunk head for fixing the sheets. In addition, you need to purchase dowel nails for attaching profiles to the floor and walls.
Types of self-tapping screws for profiles
Next, focus on the features of the selected finish. If you are going to wallpaper or paint the portal, purchase a primer and putty. If the false fireplace will be tiled, buy tile adhesive and grout for the joints.
Select the required amount of materials individually, taking into account the dimensions of the future decorative fireplace. Plasterboard construction can have a wide variety of sizes. When choosing a specific option, be guided by the available space and personal preferences.
Drywall sheets
Kit necessary tools includes:
- screwdriver;
- electric drill;
- scissors for cutting metal;
- level;
- roulette
The second stage - installation of the frame
First step. Mark the walls and floor to install the profiles. Work according to the drawing. Place marks taking into account the selected dimensions of the fireplace.
Second step. Secure the guides along the marked lines. If you are fixing it to a concrete surface, first attach the profile to the base, drill holes according to the markings, insert dowels into them and after that attach the guides.
Third step. Install the posts into the guides. Fasten the products using self-tapping screws.
Before attaching the profiles, it is recommended to check the evenness of the wall using a plumb line. If deviations are detected, fix the guides using direct hangers. These products will allow installation of products strictly vertically.
First, assemble the frame for the entire structure, then for the portal with a recess for the “firebox”. To give the base greater rigidity, connect long horizontal profiles and vertical posts with additional jumpers.
Frame
If desired, you can give the firebox opening a curly shape. To do this, just carefully cut through the stiffeners mounting profile and bend the product according to your idea.
Frame
The third stage - lining the frame with plasterboard
How to properly attach drywall to a profile
Mark the sheet according to the dimensions of the fireplace and cut out necessary details. To cut the material, it is most convenient to use an electric jigsaw. If this is not available, cut with a simple wallpaper knife. In this case, you will need to first cut the cardboard layer on one side of the sheet, carefully break the board, and then cut the second layer of cardboard.
Fix the sheathing elements to the frame. Screw the screws into the material so that their heads are slightly recessed. The recommended spacing of fasteners is 100-150 mm.
Drywall sheets are attached to the frame using self-tapping screws
There shouldn't be any problems attaching the sheets. Even without such experience, you can cope with the sheathing. Just remember that drywall is relatively fragile material, so try not to drop it and do not press too hard on the screwdriver when screwing in the fasteners.
Video: DIY plasterboard fireplace
Stage four - finishing
Having covered the frame with sheets of plasterboard, all you have to do is complete the finishing decoration of the structure. When choosing a finishing option, focus primarily on the design features of the room as a whole.
Plasterboard fireplace
Most often, artificial stone, decorative brick and ceramic tiles are used for cladding false fireplaces made of plasterboard. To attach finishing elements, tile adhesive or liquid nails are used. When tiling using tiles of the correct shape, lay them with equal gaps. To decorate them, use special plastic crosses.
Decorative fireplace finishing option
Brick or stone decoration is unlikely to fit into a modern interior. In such a situation, it is best to use paint or decorative plaster. The surface must first be carefully treated with putty, sealing the joints between the sheathing elements and eliminating any kind of unevenness. After puttying, the surfaces are additionally sanded with sandpaper.
Otherwise, when choosing a finishing option, be guided by your taste preferences.
Finally, all you have to do is install an electric fireplace in the “firebox” opening or decorate the free space at your discretion. For example, instead of installing an electric fireplace, you can install warm and soft lighting in the firebox - great option For classic interior. A more modern and bold solution is to decorate the “firebox” using multi-colored LED strip.
For decoration back wall firebox, you can use a mirror. Attach it to the surface, and line the bottom of the firebox with decorative logs or other material, for example, shells and pebbles.
There is a mirror in the firebox
By installing several candles of different shapes and sizes in the firebox, you will create in your fireplace real fire.
Hearth Decoration
Raised fireplace made of wood, plywood, chipboard
Read on to learn how to build an artificial fireplace from plywood, chipboard, and various types of wood with your own hands.
Preparatory work
It is worth noting that the false fireplace is a portal of impressive size, which is properly decorated inside and out. This portal can become a separate decorative element or a frame for an electric fireplace that provides heat, a biofireplace, which allows you to create a real fire in the firebox. If a portal is created for a bio-fireplace in which a real fire will burn, then you should carefully select materials for the firebox, since they must be fireproof. If a false fireplace is designed to decorate an electric fireplace, then the size of its firebox must correspond to the dimensions of the device. Additionally, electrical wiring should be carried out and sockets should be placed in the area of the proposed structure.
A well-drawn sketch and worked out dimensions of the future product will help you correctly navigate the amount of building material. Everything you need should be purchased at construction stores, while some fireplace parts, such as fasteners or hardware, can be found at home.
Construction material
Let's start assembling the frame
Frame assembly proceeds from bottom to top
Finished false fireplace frame
Ready-made false fireplace design
Painting a false fireplace
Ready-made false fireplace in the room
Top box for equipment
Side storage drawers
Decorative false fireplace
Wooden false fireplace
Application of chipboard
Chipboard will be a strong and easy-to-use material for creating a structure. In our case, the laminated option is perfect - laminated chipboard, which will minimize the finishing of the future false fireplace.
The only drawback that immediately comes to mind when using laminated chipboard is its vulnerable appearance. You should be careful when storing the elements of the slab and building a structure from it, so as not to damage the laminated surface, since it will no longer be possible to repair it.
Cutting the material into pieces required size You can do it yourself, or order it from a suitable furniture workshop. If we are talking about chipboard or plywood, then doing the work yourself will not be difficult, the main thing is to use a good jigsaw. With laminated material it is a little more complicated; here it is important not only to make a cut, but also to take into account the pattern of the fibers, so it is more convenient and easier to order cutting the sheet into the required pieces in a workshop. Moreover, you will not need to take away a huge sheet of chipboard; you will immediately pick up the finished elements.
Fireplace portal made of laminated chipboard
In addition, you should ask to process the edges of the slab so that the elements look monolithic. At home, edge processing can also be done using an iron and a special tape. However, the accuracy of this method is entirely up to you. When you have all the structural elements, fasteners and hardware in your hands, you should start assembling:
- Based on the sketch, it is necessary to prepare the frame of the false fireplace. It is most convenient to knock it together from timber or fasten it from a metal profile. When assembling a fireplace with your own hands from scrap materials, you should pay attention to the rigidity of the structure and its solidity, so we securely fasten the frame to the wall and floor.
- Then the resulting structure should be sheathed with cut chipboard parts. When performing work, you must be extremely careful not to damage the decorative coating.
- If the fireplace cabinet is made of laminated chipboard, then further decoration will only touch its inner part, but when creating a false portal for a fireplace from ordinary chipboard or plywood with your own hands, you should take care of the finishing of the structure. The finishing of a false fireplace can be done different materials For example, you can cover the structure with plastic brick panels or wallpaper with a similar pattern, or use decorative stone that is glued to the portal with mortar. Acceptable to use ceramic tiles, mosaic and other tiles, especially if you plan to install a bioburner inside the portal. If you stick to the wooden style, then in specialized stores you can buy the corresponding wooden elements with carved patterns and use them to decorate your decorative fireplace. Subsequently, the wooden elements can be coated with stain or varnish.
- At the final stage, you should decorate the firebox of the false fireplace. There are many ways to do artificial fire, but you can do without it, for example, by putting decorative firewood in niches or putting candles. Here everything will depend on your imagination and thoroughness of approach.
Wooden version
If you need to build a more substantial structure, you can build a decorative fireplace made of wood. Wood means timber and board. It is quite possible to build a fireplace out of wood with your own hands, because, as in the case of chipboard and plywood, there are no particular difficulties in this.
Finishing material
Frame construction
Primary finishing of the fireplace firebox
Finishing
Carrying out finishing
Construction of the main portal
Painting and decorating a false fireplace
Another wooden option
Building a frame
Tools and hardware
The method for assembling a wooden structure is as follows:
- A correct and clearly formed drawing will allow you to purchase the necessary material and cut it into parts. If you make a short description and indicate the dimensions of each element, it will be even easier to assemble a false fireplace.
- Next, the main frame is assembled from timber, to which the remaining elements are attached. When assembling a fireplace from boards with your own hands, you should use several methods of fastening materials: somewhere tongues, somewhere gluing, and somewhere connecting with hardware. The connection is selected based on the required strength and influence on the entire structure.
- If you put together the entire portal from boards, it will turn out to be too massive, so in some places we use plywood. To make a wooden false fireplace look decent, we create decorative elements and moldings from the bars and nail them to the frame.
- Once the body is assembled, you can begin finishing it. How to decorate a false fireplace, the easiest option is to paint it with white paint in several layers. The result will be a stately structure with a classic look. You can use the methods described earlier, they will also be relevant.
To make your false wooden fireplace look complete, you should start decorating its firebox. The best option in this case, the use of natural and decorative accessories is considered, for example, you can fill a niche with fir branches, pine cones and candles, or put real dry firewood.
Video: False fireplace made of wood
False fireplace made of foam plastic
- Building a fireplace from sheets and pieces of polystyrene foam is perhaps the easiest way. This is a pliable material that is very easy to work with, create various three-dimensional images, interesting contours. In addition, the cost of foam plastic sheets is low, so we do not need a large budget to build such a structure. In order to build a foam fireplace with your own hands, we will need:
- Large cardboard box or large sheets of cardboard. From this material it will be possible to make a durable frame. If you take a box from a refrigerator or other massive household appliances, then you can build a large structure that will be very similar to the original.
- Sheets of foam plastic, usually they have a thickness of about 1-1.5 centimeters.
- Scotch tape or crepe (painting tape), glue, construction knife, tape measure, marker, to create a strong structure of the correct shape, you definitely need measuring tools.
- Putty and paint for finishing the finished fireplace mock-up.
- Decorative elements made of polystyrene foam or polyurethane to create a frame and a decent appearance.
To make the product work the right size and shapes, before starting work you should measure the space allocated for the foam fireplace, make a drawing or general sketch. The shape and appearance of a false fireplace can be seen on the Internet.
- Easy to build artificial fireplace Having finished drawing, you can easily transfer it to the prepared cardboard. A general frame is created from cardboard. Interior cardboard box is cut and bent inward, thus achieving the desired volume. If you want to make a corner option, then the cardboard will have to be carefully marked and cut into more complex scheme. Using tape and glue, the structure is fixed. Make sure that it stands level on the floor and does not fall to the side. Make a strong base.
When the frame is ready, it is covered with foam plastic, which is cut into pieces from sheets. This way, the desired volume and shape of the future fireplace is obtained. You can also use foam plastic as a tabletop, which is placed on top of the structure, or saw off a piece of plywood.
To consolidate the result obtained, the foam fireplace is puttied. This can be done with universal putty, which is sold in any hardware store. Now to complete the image, all that remains is to paint the resulting foam portal. Acrylic or odorless water-based paints are ideal for painting. You can make any color, or you can leave the standard white.
When completing work on the false fireplace, you should decorate it. This can be done using plastic and polyurethane elements. For example, glue a beautiful molding around the perimeter, and decorative elements in the form of columns or other types of stucco molding on the edges. Fireplace moldings, stucco, corners and other decorative elements can be purchased at any hardware store.
Ready to use fake fireplace
If you want to decorate a false fireplace made of cardboard and foam plastic so that it looks like a real brick one, then you can use three options:
- Cover it with plastic panels imitating brick or stonework.
- Cover the frame with vinyl wallpaper with a similar pattern. As a last resort, paper analogues.
- Apply a drawing brickwork with improvised means. At the final stage of work, we decorate the area inside the portal, as well as the area around it.
- Cover it with plastic panels imitating brick or stonework. Cover the frame with vinyl wallpaper with a similar pattern. As a last resort, paper analogues. Apply a pattern of brickwork using improvised means. At the final stage of work, we decorate the area inside the portal, as well as the area around it. We cut them to size We begin to assemble the frame We install all the frame parts We fill the cavities with foam plastic
Preparing suitable boards
Cut them to size
Let's start assembling the frame
We install all the frame parts
Filling cavities with foam plastic
Let's start the exterior finishing
The frame is covered with foam plastic
We paint foam plastic under coals
Painting the outer foam
Installing the monitor
Ready-made false fireplace with fire inside
- The firebox of a foam fireplace is filled differently:
- The simplest option is to draw fire on the canvas and fix it inside.
- It's easy to make an artificial fire using a fan and fabric.
- If you want the firebox to glow, just place an LED garland or electric candles in it. To enhance the glow effect, you can place mirrors in the firebox, gluing them to the walls.
- By filling the cavity with decorative firewood and spruce branches, we get a pleasant appearance and a light pine aroma.
- Beautiful stones, fir cones, and real firewood are often used.
- Ultimately, you can always put beautiful candles inside and a candelabra next to the faux fireplace.
Corner false fireplace
Preparatory activities The design of a false fireplace, be it corner or rectangular, usually requires the presence of two basic elements: a portal and an apparatus inside. A portal is a massive structure designed to imitate a stove, and the apparatus can be a bio-fireplace burner or an electric fireplace. In principle, you don’t have to install the device inside, then the firebox can be easily decorated with firewood, candles, fir branches or other decorative elements.
The most reliable, strong, but at the same time easy-to-handle material from which you can build your portal, fireplace frame, is plasterboard. This material is easy to use, light in weight and versatile.
In the future, you can easily attach any decorative coating to a plasterboard base: tiles, mosaic, plaster stucco, plastic panels with imitation brickwork, whatever. Before starting work, it is advisable to select appropriate place, where a false fireplace would fit perfectly. Many people choose a corner fireplace because it takes up less free space. Great solution will be placing a dummy opposite front door in an unused corner. With this arrangement, the fireplace immediately becomes the main accent in the interior of the room, the center of attention.
A simple sketch of a future fireplace
At the final stage of preparation, you should collect the tools necessary for construction and suitable building materials. Let's briefly go over the materials, you will definitely need:
- Metal profile for the construction of a frame for drywall.
- To do robust construction You will need screws for metal and wood to secure the drywall.
- Drywall for covering the frame and creating the shape of a false fireplace.
- Plaster will be required to level the corners and recesses from self-tapping screws.
- To prepare for tiling, you will need a primer. It is also better to prime the drywall before painting.
- At the preparation stage, you should decide what will be produced finishing and purchase the appropriate material: tiles, plastic panels, mosaics.
Additionally, various decorative elements may be needed: corners, moldings and more.
Successful placement of an imitation of a real fireplace
To make a corner fireplace from plasterboard, you will need construction tools:
- For marking you will need a pencil or marker, ruler, tape measure, level, plumb line.
- For basic work you will need a screwdriver, hammer drill, jigsaw, construction knife, metal scissors, pliers, screwdriver, hammer.
- Other tools may also be useful, it all depends on the complexity of the structure and the methods of finishing it.
Step-by-step instructions will help you navigate the construction methodology:
Fastening the metal profile to the floor and wall
- At the first stage, we need to make markings on the floor and wall, based on a drawing or sketch of the fireplace made on paper. To better see the markings, use a marker, and for accuracy, use a ruler and level. It is very important not to make serious mistakes when marking.
- If you plan to install a false fireplace inside the corner portal electrical appliance, then it is necessary to supply electricity to the corner. The easiest way is to make an outlet behind the fireplace, where an electric fireplace or other built-in device will be connected.
The fireplace takes on a general shape
- The markings are ready, we will carry out further work with our own hands. Let's take it metallic profile and build the necessary structure from it. We use the floor and walls as the basis for fastening. If necessary, make rounded elements, cut the profile and bend it.
Drywall-clad fireplace frame
- When the frame is built, we begin to work with drywall. We need to cut large leaf into small pieces according to the dimensions on the drawing, and then attach these pieces of drywall to the metal frame. As we have already said, when making a corner fireplace from plasterboard with your own hands, you need to carefully monitor the dimensions so as not to waste material. Note that the self-tapping screws should be screwed in completely and even sunk a little into soft drywall so that their heads are not visible later.
Finishing the fireplace with suitable decorative materials
- When the drywall is fixed, you need to take putty and modify the image of the fireplace and its shape. You should cover the recesses of the screws, make even corners and joints. When the putty dries, you can use a knife and sandpaper to make the surface more ideal. Finally, it is necessary to treat the drywall and putty with a primer to make it easier to attach the finishing materials, or to paint the resulting false fireplace.
The exterior of the fireplace is finished
- Having built the base of the structure, you can proceed directly to its external and internal decoration. It's better to start with the firebox. If you plan to install any device inside, you should do the appropriate finishing. For example, if you are installing a bio-fireplace burner or real candles, then you should strengthen the base by placing the tiles down, and inner part decorate the fireboxes with heat-resistant material, asbestos, and steel. If the firebox is empty, finishing can be done at will from any materials.
Exterior view of the corner fireplace in the room
- After the firebox, we move on to the main external part. To decorate a corner fireplace, you can use ceramic tiles, stone or its imitation, plastic panels, siding, there are many options. The decorative material is glued to the frame using glue. This glue usually dries in about a day.
- A tabletop should be installed on the top of the frame; you can choose a wooden or stone option, depending on your preferences. You can later place decorative items and souvenirs on this tabletop.
Filling the fireplace insert with decorative elements
Note that in addition to expensive finishing materials, there are also quite budget options. For example, a fireplace in the corner of a room can simply be painted with paint of a suitable color; the simplest option is white. Drywall, even primed, absorbs moisture well, so it will have to be painted in two layers. You can cover the frame with self-adhesive film with a suitable pattern or color. The film is not the best practical option, in addition, we recommend choosing German manufacturer, because Chinese has too big problems with quality (at the joints and in the corners it constantly peels off).
Exterior view of a corner false fireplace in the living room
Upon completion of construction, the necessary parting should be installed in the firebox: a bio-fireplace or an electric fireplace. An interesting option is to place a photo frame inside the firebox, on which there will be an image of a real fire.
Candles in the firebox are always appropriate; they can be real or artificial, for example, in the form of a kind of garland that gives a pleasant flicker. Decorative firewood fits perfectly into this concept, which you can also make yourself or buy ready-made options.
You can build a corner false fireplace with your own hands not only from plasterboard; simple options are very popular, when the structure is made from ordinary cardboard boxes.
Cardboard version
Recently, false fireplaces made from cardboard, in particular from suitable cardboard boxes, have become very popular. It’s very convenient to make yourself a decorative New Year’s fireplace from boxes, which will support the festive mood, and then will be disassembled.
The best material for creativity is considered to be large boxes, for example, from under a TV, furniture, refrigerator or other large household appliances. Making a corner version is a little more difficult than a simple rectangular one, because here you have to rack your brains a little, developing the technology for cutting and gluing the box.
As always, the Internet will be a great help, where you can find relevant pictures or look suitable video. If we briefly consider the technology for constructing such a structure, it does not differ much from that described above.
Instructions for creating a cardboard corner fireplace
- At the first stage, we prepare a suitable box, cut it into in the right places, bend and secure with tape or masking tape.
- Next, we paint it in the desired color or wrap it in paper to give the structure a monochromatic look.
- Decoration can be done again using paper; it is permissible to use polystyrene foam and plastic elements. If you have the ability to draw, then it is quite possible to apply suitable graphics to the outer part of the fireplace.
- By placing appropriate decorative elements inside and around the false fireplace, we get a finished look.
To recreate the flickering of a fire, you can put a garland inside an improvised firebox. Artificial firewood, which can be made from the same cardboard by rolling it into a tube, will help hide it. For greater realism, glue cardboard knots to the firewood. You can hide a bright garland using natural decorative materials, for example, by placing fir branches and cones in the firebox, and additionally placing candles.
As a last resort, you can simply draw a fire on paper and put this drawing in the firebox. It won’t be entirely elegant, but this idea will help support the overall concept of comfort.
False fireplaces in the interior (60+ photos)
Do-it-yourself false fireplace made of plasterboard
Living room in black and gold with a carved false fireplace
A modern interior will be complemented by a fireplace in traditional style using stucco
A place for read books - an empty fireplace opening
Natural materials will add warmth and comfort to even the most ascetic interior
An original solution - having a fireplace in the bathroom
On the fireplace shelf there is a collection of nesting dolls, photographs and grotesque paintings, and inside the firebox there is a wicker vase with branches
Fireplace niche as a closet. Can hold shoe boxes in it
You can place something unusual in the fireplace niche, for example, an antique chest
Logs for a false fireplace, painted in different colors to match the room
Fill the room additional light a disco ball will help. Place it in front of a window or lamp so it gives off glare
A small wall niche stylized as a fireplace hearth
A little trick to imitate a fireplace opening filled with logs
Symbolic false fireplace (painted fireplace)
It's more of a drawing on the wall than a full-fledged structure. It can be made from ordinary ceiling plinths, indicating only the shape, without depth.
An imitation fireplace, a decorative fireplace, a false fireplace or a bio-fireplace, whatever you call it, is a great thing, especially for city dwellers, for whom a fireplace is at first glance pipe dream. Of course, it’s impossible to make a real fireplace in an apartment, but a false fireplace is easy to make, even with your own hands. So, how and from what you can make a decorative fireplace with your own hands, see below.
DIY decorative fireplace made of cardboard
You can make a false fireplace from an ordinary cardboard TV box.
For this you will need:
- cardboard box
- foam baseboards and figures
Supporting materials:
- plan drawing
- scissors
- stationery knife
- pen or pencil
- ruler
- construction tape
- special glue (installation time for gluing foam)
To complete:
- putty and spatula (optional - if you decide to putty the fireplace before painting)
- white water-based paint (you can use paint of a different color)
- brush
Having prepared necessary materials, you can safely start making a false fireplace. First you need to transfer the drawing from the drawing plan to the box: use a pencil and a ruler for this.
Do not use a marker as it will bleed through the paint and even if you don’t want to bother with putty, you will have to putty the box before painting.
We make slits at the future location of the fire stationery knife, it should look like in photo No. 5 - 2 labels that we fold towards the back wall of the box and glue with construction tape (carefully glue them with tape on all sides, including the bottom of the box).
Now we glue the foam parts in accordance with your sketch (we cut the borders at the junction of the corners at an angle of 45 degrees). We glue a wide patterned plinth on top - this will be the basis of the future fireplace shelf.
We place foam plastic supports behind the baseboard (photo No. 10) and place a foam board on top - you will have to work hard with the corners to glue them without gaps.
Once we have glued all the parts, we carefully putty our false fireplace. Let the putty dry, then paint the fireplace. water-based paint. That's all, we admire the finished false fireplace. This fireplace will fit perfectly into a photography location.
You can just as easily make a false fireplace out of cardboard in a corner partition (corner fireplace). To make this false fireplace you will need: again a cardboard box, adhesive film or brick wallpaper, scissors, tape and a garland.
We make a triangular base from a cardboard box, as shown in the photo. Next we cover it with wallpaper or film (in fact, in this case you can also use foam parts and paint everything at the end). But the tabletop for a future fireplace can be made not only from polystyrene foam; as an option, in this case, several layers of cardboard are glued together, which are then covered with wood-like film. We place a garland or battery-powered candles into the firebox of the finished fireplace or admire the result.
By the way, if you want to make a false fireplace out of cardboard, but you don’t think you have a box of the right size, don’t forget that you can simply glue several boxes together. Further progress of work according to the principles described above.
By the way, if you are making a fireplace not for a couple of photo shoots or just for Christmas, but plan to leave it in your interior for a long time, it makes sense to use the space in the walls of the fireplace. It could make a great hiding place or just shelves for handicrafts.
Creating a fireplace with secret shelves begins with the formation of a “skeleton” - its structure is shown in photo below No. 1 (the structure of the skeleton will directly depend on the size of the shelves you want). The finished skeleton is covered on all sides with sheets of cardboard (photo No. 2, 3, 4). Next, we make podium No. 5 and tabletop No. 6 (the bed is made from 6 sheets of cardboard glued together). For reliability, we cover all joints with newspaper and PVA glue.
Now let’s finish the tabletop: glue it to the top of the fireplace ceiling plinth, so that its top is flush with the 6 sheets of cardboard that were previously glued. And on top of the cardboard sheets and baseboard we glue the seventh sheet of cardboard - as shown in photo No. 8 (No. 9 - the tabletop from the wrong side, No. 10 - carefully evenly glue the tabletop from the wrong side).
We close all the corners of the fireplace with a special construction corner No. 11. We cut out “bricks” from cardboard and glue them into the firebox, simulating brickwork No. 12. We make an uneven relief on the bricks with putty or ordinary crumpled paper soaked in glue, when the brickwork dries, we paint it in the desired way color. We cover the shelves with paper or self-adhesive film. We putty No. 13, 14 on all sides of the fireplace.
But that is not all! Decorations will bring your almost finished fireplace to perfection. We glue the baseboard around the firebox, we also make it with our own hands: we simply glue three newspaper tubes No. 15, 16 together in a pile. We cover the top of the tabletop with a sheet of crumpled wallpaper No. 17, 18 - it turns out beautifully. If you have any unevenness on the fireplace, they can be easily leveled thanks to liquid wallpaper(if all sides are smooth, you can simply paint it with paint). AND finishing touch- glue “stones” made of foam plastic No. 20 onto the podium. That’s all, the beautiful false fireplace with hidden shelves is ready.
As you probably guessed, such a fireplace can be made by gluing together several boxes of different sizes - each box will directly serve as a shelf.
A false fireplace made of cardboard will be stronger if you first make a reliable U-shaped frame from wooden laminated boards (as shown in photo No. 1). Next, we glue the sheets of cardboard to the finished frame using liquid nails. Then we cover the entire surface with newspaper using PVA glue No. 4, try not to soak it too much - the cardboard will be deformed. In the lower cavity we glue the supporting posts and cardboard on them, then we also glue them with newspaper sheets. Let it dry.
The next step is putty. There will be a lot of puttying and sanding due to the uneven cardboard.
Next, we make the tabletop and bottom: we glue the foam backing for the laminate on top and bottom of the pva, and on top of the backing we again glue newspaper scraps No. 9. After drying, we glue the baseboards No. 10, cut off the excess from the lid No. 11 and putty. We do the same with the bottom; the plinth can be used without a pattern.
Once again we sand the entire fireplace - finishing. We decorate the portal with narrow plinth No. 13. When everything is dry, thoroughly wash the entire fireplace, give it more time to dry. And you can prime it. Then we paint it in the desired color; after the main painting, the stucco molding can be painted white.
The inner surface of the portal can be painted with white paint with the addition of sparkles - everything will flicker from the candles. That's all, the decorative fireplace made of cardboard on a solid base is ready.
How to make a false fireplace from plasterboard with your own hands
A decorative fireplace made of cardboard with your own hands is, of course, beautiful and easy, but still it cannot be compared with its more reliable brother in the form of a false fireplace made of plasterboard. So, how to make a false fireplace from plasterboard with your own hands?
First of all, let's start with what you will need:
Essential elements:
- aluminum profile (the basis of the future fireplace)
- drywall directly (you can use scraps if you have them)
- shelf (you can buy a wooden step for the stairs)
Decorative:
- tile
- mirror panels (for finishing the walls of the hearth)
Auxiliary:
- screws
- screwdriver
- tile adhesive
- liquid Nails
- grout
- varnish for covering tiles and paint (optional)
First you need to decide on the size of the future fireplace. To do this, it is better to draw a fireplace - the way you want it, and then in order to decide on the dimensions of a real false fireplace, it is better to first select decorative tiles and a shelf and, based on their sizes, modify the dimensions of your fireplace.
Having decided on the dimensions, you need to make a structure from profile No. 1, 2, which is then sheathed with plasterboard No. 3, 4. Moreover, it is better to first draw out the floor and walls, and also transfer the markings from the working drawing to the details of the fireplace.
Next, we attach the shelf with glue or No. 5 screws. side walls of the hearth we glue mirrors No. 6 onto liquid nails. Before laying the tiles, we plaster the entire structure thin layer tile adhesive and let it dry No. 7 (this will improve the adhesion of the tiles to the surface of the drywall). Well, you can actually start laying tile No. 8. After a day, you can start grouting, and after a while you can start coating the tiles with varnish (if desired).
In addition, using a sponge and acrylic paint you can slightly transform the appearance of your fireplace (the main thing to remember is: after dipping a sponge in paint, you need to blot it on the paper until dry).
That's all, the beautiful false fireplace made of plasterboard is ready! We admire the photos and come up with our own decor.
Fireplace dimensions: height 100 cm, width 90 cm.
Leg width and depth 24 cm;
Shelf: 90*30 cm, tile: 20*6 cm.
A fireplace made of plasterboard can be made of any size, of different shapes, and the decoration of the fireplace can be done in different ways - it all depends on your imagination. You can make an arch in a niche, glue a mirror into it, or make glass shelves on which to place candles. You can also install an electric fireplace or a screen with an image of a flame, however, for this it is worth prudently connecting electricity to the niche. At the same time, if you are attaching the profile to the walls, remember about the electrical cable routes so that you do not inadvertently damage the electrical network with screws.
You can make a corner false fireplace with your own hands, and decorate the walls of the fireplace not with tiles, but, for example, with Venetian plaster.
If you decide to install an electric fireplace, pay attention to the convex ears for ventilation - you will need to cut holes opposite the ears for ventilation.
If possible, you can build a cast iron fireplace into a plasterboard base. You will get a very unusual false fireplace.
Another thing that caught my attention was the option of “hiding” the holes for cleaning soot. The false fireplace is made according to the above principle; see the beauty of the idea in the photo below. Great idea for those who have a stove.
In addition, you don’t have to stop solely at creating a decorative fireplace; they go well with a false fireplace. various designs: shelves, cabinets, etc. By the way, they are also easy to make, all from the same profiles and drywall.
By the way, it is worth noting that a decorative fireplace made of plasterboard does not have to be screwed to the wall; you can make a completely “independent” piece of furniture that can be easily rearranged.
In this case, the main detail: smooth floors and walls.
DIY wooden fireplace
If you don’t like working with profiles and drywall, you can use timber and plywood. Again, you need to calculate in advance the dimensions of the future false fireplace based on the number and size of tiles (do not forget to take into account the space for grouting). We make a frame from a beam (a beam with a cross section of 40 by 40 mm is taken in the photo). Which is then covered with sheets of plywood. The mouth of the future fireplace is cut out with an electric jigsaw. The most important stage of work is gluing artificial stone on plywood. Modern adhesives and mastics allow this to be done flawlessly.
Please note that under no circumstances should the adhesive solution come into contact with the front surface of the stone... It will be almost impossible to clean it...
Wooden canvas for window sills was used as a tabletop. Thickness 4 cm.
Painted with English water-based varnish in mahogany color.
To finish the vent, a smaller stone was taken and painted with water-based paint.
A beautiful fireplace is made from timber.
A fireplace attached to a windowsill looks good.
But in the end, these fireplaces made of timber and plywood are practically no different from a fireplace made of plasterboard and profiles. Another false fireplace made of wood (carved wood fireplace) deserves attention. You can make a fireplace out of wood from blanks for staircases (as an option, beech wood).
In order to make a wood fireplace presented below, it was necessary: 3 steps 140 cm, 3 steps 90 cm, 2 risers 140 and 1 riser 90 cm, 2 stair posts and a Chinese electric insert for the fireplace (photo No. 1, 2).
The amount of materials needed depends on what kind of fireplace you decide to make (first draw the future fireplace, calculate required amount materials and only then go to the store).
On the existing parts, cut off all excess (No. 3), mill, sand. Next, apply stain to all parts (2 layers with an interval of 6 hours) the next day varnish (also 2 layers with intermediate sanding with 220 and 400 sandpaper, photo No. 8, 9). Afterwards you need to let them dry for two days.
And you can start assembling. Beautiful fireplace made of wood ready.
Of course, in order to create such a decorative fireplace, certain skills and special tools are required: a drawing board, a manual circular saw, belt sander, milling cutter, jigsaw, drill and delta sander.
You can make a decorative fireplace out of wood in another way - as shown in the photo below. It turns out to be a very nice imitation of a fireplace, and most importantly, such a false fireplace is easy to make with your own hands.
By the way, you can make from wood not just a false fireplace, but an original shoe stand.
Or you can buy a beautiful textured board only for the top, and make the entire base from sheets of plywood, but in the end this version of a false fireplace is not like any of the previous ones. First you need to cut strips 7-8 cm wide from sheets of plywood, sand the edges and paint them in different colors. While they dry, we nail the base boards to the wall. Next, using wood glue, glue the strips of plywood to the base on the wall and glue them together. And so that the structure does not fall apart during drying, you can use a press - you can press the entire structure using railings, boards and sticks from the shower curtain (or a mop). As a result, you will get this unusual decorative fireplace.
For those who cannot afford the above methods for making a false fireplace, or simply do not have enough free time, we can recommend false beams made of polyurethane. In this case, you won’t need a lot of effort, the main thing is to buy a beam (one, if you buy it long enough, or 2 shorter ones), cut it into 3 parts of the required size, and simply glue them together. Such a false fireplace can be complemented with stucco, paints can create an aged effect, attach a glass shelf and admire the result. In addition, on the wall near which the fireplace will be located, you can make an imitation of brickwork. It turns out to be a spectacular decorative fireplace, and most importantly, making such a fireplace with your own hands is very simple.
Do-it-yourself desktop biofireplace
And for those who definitely want a fireplace with a real fire, whose hands grow where they need them and at the same time have enough free time, we can advise you to make a tabletop bio-fireplace with your own hands.
In order to make a tabletop biofireplace you will need:
- transparent sealant
- 4 glasses
- metal box (ceramic, terracotta)
- metal grid
- pebbles
- metal can with fuel for biofireplaces
Prepare all materials; the glass must match the size of the box. The edges of the glass must be degreased with alcohol (the better the surface is degreased, the more reliable the connection will be). Apply sealant to the edge of the glass and place another glass on top. Press lightly and hold for several minutes. We give the U-shaped structure time to dry and glue the last glass.
Don't worry if the sealant goes beyond the edges; it can be easily cut off with a razor after it has completely dried.
Now the screen needs to be attached to metal box Photo No. 6. Apply sealant to the glass and install it on the base (the metal surface must first be degreased).
We place a can of fuel in the box and cover it with a metal mesh.
If the mesh is small, then you can use several parts: the surface will still be covered with stones.
We lay out the pebbles over the entire area of the grid, leaving a free part above the can of fuel.
That's all, the bio-fireplace is ready to set on fire and admire the fire.
To ignite the fuel, use a long torch. You can make do with spaghetti.
In general, as you can see, there are many ways to make a false fireplace with your own hands. Good luck with your experiments!
It’s easy to make a fireplace from polystyrene foam with your own hands, such decor is inexpensive, will decorate any room, and will give it coziness. Safe analogues of real live fire systems are easy to use and very beautiful. Complex materials are not needed for the work; anyone can master the technology if desired.
Pros and cons of a foam fireplace
A portal for a fireplace made of polystyrene foam is a practical, inexpensive, easy-to-arrange decor. It has the following advantages:
The solution looks attractive, and aesthetic, functional characteristics does not lose even over a long period of use. One person can make and install a fireplace design - all you need is compliance with the rules and skill.
Important! The foam cannot come into contact with fire, so there will be no flame. Alternative options for the fireplace are diode strips, light bulbs, closed candles.
A foam fireplace has its own strengths and weak sides
When heated, polystyrene foam releases toxic substances; sometimes prolonged contact with a conventional incandescent light bulb is sufficient. This disadvantage is relative, since it is leveled out through proper processing. You cannot spill liquids onto foam plastic; they will be absorbed and ruin its structure and appearance. Care products should be used specially, without aggressive chemical inclusions. The design has low resistance to mechanical stress.
Foam Fireplace Styles
Photos of a false fireplace made of foam will help you choose the optimal option stylistically. Style is one of the main factors that should be taken into account when performing work. It is desirable that the fireplace is in harmony with other components of the interior.
Important! A false fireplace made of foam plastic can become the main decorative accent in a room, provided it is used correctly.
Main options:
You immediately need to choose a place for installation, this will allow you to decide on the decor. At the same time, you can move the foam plastic structure around your apartment or house - it is light and mobile.
Important! A built-in burner is an excellent decor for a bio-fireplace made of polystyrene foam, the main thing is to comply with the requirements fire safety.
The style of the fireplace is selected for a specific interior
How to make a decorative fireplace from polystyrene foam with your own hands
Foam fireplace bricks can be purchased at a hardware store. What else is needed for arrangement decorative element, correct placement of accents - will be discussed further.
Fireplace made of foam plastic on a cardboard base
To create a portal on a cardboard base, use any box of suitable sizes, foam boards, decorative skirting boards or other decor. The tools you will need are scissors, a knife, glue, a brush, construction tape, a can of paint, and putty.
Procedure:
- Prepare a drawing, immediately indicate the dimensions (width, height, length), transfer it to a cardboard base.
The drawing should convey the future project as accurately as possible - In the areas where the hearth is located, make slits, bend the edges inward at the cut points, and secure with tape.
You can use any box from large household appliances as cardboard. - Make a tabletop from plywood or polystyrene foam, fix decorative skirting boards.
The more carefully the work is done with the base, the smoother the fireplace will be. - Apply putty, level it and wipe it clean, cover with water-based paint.
Painting a foam fireplace is best done outside the home, for example, in a garage or outdoors, if weather conditions permit. - Install a screen that simulates combustion in the fireplace hearth, or attach a garland, LEDs, or battery-powered candles.
The future “flame” in a foam fireplace must meet fire safety requirements - Paste decorative bricks along the contour of the hearth placement, apply a putty layer on top (it will create an imitation of unevenness).
You can use ready-made elements as decoration
To obtain a complete image, it is advisable to cover the foam base with paint in the shade of brick. The combustion space is designed in the same way.
Retro-style foam fireplace
Do-it-yourself expanded polystyrene fireplace in retro style will look harmonious in an interior furnished antique furniture. Scuffs and artificially aged surfaces are exactly what gives the solution original design antique
Stages of work:
It is most convenient to install the chest on a mantelpiece made using pallets. To simulate a hearth, logs are used. You can use a couple of old boards, but not rotten ones, and build a shelf out of them to preserve current abrasions, scratches, and errors. Above the fireplace cover, install false windows with vintage shutters, hang old photos placed in retro frames.
Important! A false fireplace covered with “artificially aged” paint looks especially attractive. It is optimal to choose pale gray shade, but be sure to let it dry.
Foam fireplace for the New Year
A false fireplace made of polystyrene foam with a themed decor will be an excellent decoration for an apartment or house. New Year. You can do it yourself, it won’t take much time, but you will have to be patient.
Procedure:
- Cut a couple of rectangles 60*40 cm and a couple 40*20 cm from foam sheets (they are needed to create the sides).
Since polystyrene foam does not adhere well to PVA, you additionally need to secure the parts with toothpicks - up to 4 pieces per cut. - Pin the side pieces to one of the rectangles with toothpicks.
The joints should be pre-coated with glue. - Prime the seams, make markings on the inside for the firebox, and make cuts with a sharp knife.
The thinner the blade, the more accurate the finished cut will be. - Secure the back surface of the fireplace with glue and toothpicks. Apply masking tape along the lower and upper perimeter. Prime the resulting frame and let it dry for at least 10-12 hours.
If necessary, you can repeat the priming work, dry everything thoroughly, sand it using fine abrasive sandpaper - Soak the braid in PVA adhesive solution, press it onto the firebox cuts and prime the surfaces, dry for a couple of hours. Attach small decorations to the corners and cover everything with a gold layer.
After priming the surface, let it dry - Secure the lid to the top of the finished box, prime the narrow sides again, and cover them with gold. Finish the firebox cuts in the same way.
Gold paint coating is the basis of New Year's design - Leave the foam fireplace base open or place it on a rigid cardboard sheet.
For decorative purposes, golden mother-of-pearl should be applied to the embossed surface of the braid, the cut of the firebox, and the ribs of the fireplace.
Let everything dry, wipe off in a piece soft fabric so that the paint gets into the recesses and highlights the relief pattern, and on the edges it looks like natural wear. You can make decoupage on the pediments of the fireplace made of polystyrene foam. To do this, snowflakes cut from napkins are glued using PVA glue, then varnished onto acrylic base. When all surfaces are dry, it will be possible to assemble the fireplace into a single structure.
Important! On the fireplace cover, provided there is no decorative tape, paint is applied directly to the sides.
New Year's fireplace decor made of polystyrene foam includes chains, toys, and decorative traditional boots that are hung near the firebox. Decorations are usually attached to multi-colored stationery nails. Cones, if any, can be used in pure form or after painting them gold, this will make them even more elegant. You can also place soap cones in baskets, and put candles in a decorative improvised firebox different sizes and forms. Christmas tree decorations, sweets and boxes are usually placed on the mantelpiece. Sizes are adjusted to suit personal preferences. If you make a small false fireplace, it will even stand on Coffee table.
Conclusion
You can easily make a fireplace from polystyrene foam with your own hands in a couple of hours. This is a purely decorative piece of furniture; it does not involve the use of open fire. If you wish, you can complement the model with retro or New Year's decor using appropriate accessories. It will be more convenient to use a cardboard frame and stick foam boards on it. You can buy materials at any hardware store.
Every person strives for coziness and comfort. The hearth and warmth of home is what warms the soul. What could it be better than the evening spent with family by the fireplace in the living room? Owners country cottages and houses are able to afford this luxury. What should city residents do?
The solution would be to install false fireplace- this is a unique design, the design of which is repeated in in full or partially the appearance of a real fireplace. Don’t think that this is a difficult task, an experienced master, and a common person, easilywith herwill handle it.
What is it for?
The lack of special ceilings and chimneys in the apartment does not allow building a real fireplace. But there is a way out, because you can make a false fireplace with your own hands, and without having any skills in repair and construction activities. The master class will help you with this.
A false fireplace in the interior is multifunctional decoration, demonstrating a privileged class. Fire inside it is not necessary at all. In addition, creating such a design is an entertaining job that leaves room for flights of imagination. As a result, a false fireplace for the living room will become an exclusive thing, which you can be proud of, in addition, it will give the interior the highest class.
Advantages of artificial fireplaces
False fireplaces have a number of advantages:
- The decorating process involves budget-friendly, but beautiful and unusual materials.
- A fake fireplace can be made from many types of building materials that are available to everyone.
- A false fireplace is an inexpensive way decorate the living room space in the apartment. You only need money to purchase the necessary building materials, and installation can be done carry out independently.
- There is a unique opportunity to periodically change the decor of a false fireplace, be it painting or adding a new part.
Read also: Making a fireplace for the New Year with your own hands from cardboard
Types of decorative fireplaces
Depending on the structure and shape, false fireplaces can be divided into three types:
- Symbolic. Constructed from simple available materials. But their specific feature is that they are strikingly different from conventional fireplaces. This includes pictures on the wall, beautiful stickers with various ornaments. The purpose of this variation is to abstractly imitate, but without performing the main function.
- This type of fireplace must have projections relative to the living room wall. They are decorated in their own way desire and taste. Place firewood in the fire hole or fill it with candles. To achieve realism, in front of the firebox an original forged grate is placed. It will create fictitious protection from flying sparks.
- The false fireplace has genuine dimensions and completely imitates a real fireplace. Its design principles are the same. Install in the middle of the combustion space. It will create a stunning fire effect in the hearth. The false fireplace is characterized lack of a chimney. All other parameters clearly reproduce the proportions of a real fireplace.
What is it made from?
To build a false fireplace, they resort to watching a master class. You will also need ordinary building materials, sold in any specialized store. A master who is interested in construction and repair will find homes necessary materials such as:
- medium thickness plywood;
- a certain class of chipboard;
- plain cardboard;
- Styrofoam;
- brick;
- drywall.
If desired, you can use individual parts of used furniture. It would be a shame to throw it away, but it would be just right for making a false fireplace.
Polyurethane model
How to quickly and easily build a false fireplace from polyurethane? You will need to purchase a polyurethane base and study master class. The main difficulty of the process is drawing up a work plan. In addition, you need to prepare drawings for a false fireplace, think over its style, dimensions that correspond to the parameters of the living room. All the rest of the work will take away minimum time and effort.
Read also: Electric 3D fireplaces with steam
Before proceeding with installation, prepare following materials:
- high-quality putty;
- polyurethane;
- contact glue;
- elements intended for finishing the internal firebox.
Installation procedure
A step-by-step guide will help you assemble a false fireplace with your own hands. instructions master class:
- A false fireplace is best installed in the living room. Will do side wall. The corner option would also be ideal, because it will not interfere with the passage and will not reduce the space of the living room. If you wish, you can watch on the Internet how a master builds a false fireplace.
- If accommodation is provided electric fireplace, or lighting, you need to think about an additional outlet and wiring.
- For the frame of the combustion hole, several wooden blocks are taken. The walls are constructed using plasterboard or a sheet of plywood.
- Next you can install a portal made of polyurethane. It is carefully attached contact glue. All gaps between the portal and the internal firebox are removed with putty.
- The final stage of finishing. The white color of the material can be decorated in various ways.
The portal is also made of wood. It looks exceptionally harmonious in an ethnic interior. Of course, it is more expensive than polyurethane, but it allows you to create a real masterpiece and show the highest class of craftsmanship.
Modification using foam plastic
How to make a false fireplace in the living room from foam plastic so that it has an aesthetic and original look, but at the same time it was easy to implement and safe? The answer will not surprise you - you need to carefully think through the progress of the work, everything the smallest details procedures, calculate the dimensions of the structure.
Don't forget about the installation location. After all, to build a false fireplace with your own hands, you do not need the specific knowledge that an experienced craftsman possesses. All it takes is desire. Corner option placement is most preferred. Modern design solutions in most works represent precisely corner mounting method. To get a complete picture, you can sketch it on paper.
For step-by-step installation you will need a special Equipment and materials:
- measuring instruments;
- pencil, paint brush, water-based paint;
- putty;
- polypropylene mesh, counters, special glue, knife for construction needs;
- ordinary cardboard;
- directly the foam itself.
