Decorative Mantle Trim

[Gabby12]

I am building a Red Oak Mantle for above the wood stove.
This is going into corner of room with stone under the mantle.

The piece of oak I am using is 2 1/2" thick and 10" deep.
I have seen some mantles that have had a carving carved itno them.

While I would love to have the skills and time to do a carving - in reality - I don't have the talent or the time.

I was thinking about maybe putting up some decorative trim that I saw at Home Depot but nothing really interested me - look for a wildlife scene - not some fancy rope type or other design.

Does anyone have any links or suggestions?

 

[mfglickman]

Van Dykes Restorers?

 

[tigeroak]

I restore furniture and I don't think you will find what you are looking for from Van Dykes, Kennedys or The one in Missouri. Can't think of their name. They are more for people like me that refinishes. What you need to look at is a hobbie store to maybe find what you are looking for. When you are ready for a finish don't use a poly, get one that will last and will not get soft and trap moisture under finish. I use a sanding sealer and a per cat laquer.

 

[xman23]

Keep us posted with what you come up with. I have been thinking of adding a oak cap to the small limestone mantel I have. I have a mill near me that will cut any size. Carving a wild life scene with some mountains would look great.

 

[Gabby12]

Tigeroak,
I have been testing some samples and like a danish oil with a red oak stain in it.
I put one coat on hearth base that I built.
Where do I go after doing this.

Also looking at putting a tongue and groove ceiling in (24'X24' room).
Pricing buying it unfinished versus finished and with me building this addition and having had as much fun as I need fo now - pre-finished is looking pretty good plus it's cheaper.
I have some samples from a company called Dura-Groove that will deliver.
http://www.duragroove.com/
Looking at either a ponderosa pine of cedar.

Talking about finsihing on your own expect for the addition I am building I don't have a space big enough to lay everything out. Plus considering the time and again it's chearper.