Four Week "Wait-No-More" Organizing Challenge! Week 3 - Master Bathroom Organization Plan

Welcome to Week Three of the <a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2015/06/four-week-wait-no-more-organizing.html" target="_blank">"Wait-No-More" Organizing Challenge</a>. To recap, I am focusing on four main areas of our life that need a lot of organizational help. Instead of biting off more than I can chew all at once (and subsequently becoming quite overwhelmed), I am tackling one space each week.<br /><br /><ul><li><a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2015/06/four-week-wait-no-more-organizing_12.html" target="_blank">Time Management</a></li><li><a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2015/06/four-week-wait-no-more-organizing_19.html" target="_blank">Automobiles</a></li><li>Master Bathroom</li><li>Master Bedroom Closet</li></ul><br />And many of you are joining in and working on a few of your own spaces, which I totally love! For this week's organizational challenge, I am focusing on our master bathroom.<br /><br />We haven't done anything cosmetically to our bathroom since installing it about 8-9 years ago.  It is beginning to show signs of wear and love, and we don't have any plans on doing a major bathroom renovation in the near future.  But something needed to be done now.  Being that it is so uninspired and dated, I have completely let it fall to the wayside.  The counters have become magnets to clutter, the cabinet is a dumping ground for unused toiletries and each wall is covered in small storage solutions, yet we don't properly use any of them.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Ys8wqr2w57Px7YnR6TAdwnzXAQIPdG-_64j_vquBeabnG2CrZYALX1cUhgKhfvYaQBUekfbFFW5N6LgxwpqljKNg1VccduMAUDM3SMrkkaNeqVAp9G2yQubRb6C5cJHe-WaFpjHp0aGo/s1600/Bathroom_Organization_Challenge_4.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj-Ys8wqr2w57Px7YnR6TAdwnzXAQIPdG-_64j_vquBeabnG2CrZYALX1cUhgKhfvYaQBUekfbFFW5N6LgxwpqljKNg1VccduMAUDM3SMrkkaNeqVAp9G2yQubRb6C5cJHe-WaFpjHp0aGo/s1600/Bathroom_Organization_Challenge_4.jpg" /></a></div><br />The view above isn't awful, it could be worse considering the traffic this bathroom receives.  But a closer look would show you empty bottles in the shower, random Lego bits on the hamper, miscellaneous items sitting on top of the hand towel holder, tub toys on the floor and a slew of random toiletries.  Then, you turn to the sink and counter area and it gets so much worse.  I suddenly feel very naked and afraid.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUctmVSJWFkhJ5AJctlS9nQH-yrYijob6GV4rlYuFGGSK4NZa-yYX0GvhAgpxZd3VWU7mNayIq9CBILqylsAHaywEaNnwF_S2IXCSkPoiJO-U_EK0VU2ytZi7ET4AfN5ObRiy99MrlOV5V/s1600/Bathroom_Organization_Challenge_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiUctmVSJWFkhJ5AJctlS9nQH-yrYijob6GV4rlYuFGGSK4NZa-yYX0GvhAgpxZd3VWU7mNayIq9CBILqylsAHaywEaNnwF_S2IXCSkPoiJO-U_EK0VU2ytZi7ET4AfN5ObRiy99MrlOV5V/s1600/Bathroom_Organization_Challenge_1.jpg" /></a></div><br />Sorry for the bad photos, this bathroom has always been problematic to photograph due to the lack of natural light.  This side of the bathroom is just a cluster of nonsense.  Toiletries I use daily are piled near the sink, I have no room to store the towel warmer I was gifted for Christmas, and the cabinet holds items that I only use on occasion, if at all.  Sure, my small jars of bath salts are pretty and I love decorative soaps, but are they really necessary to keep if I don't ever use them?  I don't even know what is in two out of the three cabinet drawers.  And the small shelf above the toilet, although cute, doesn't hold anything of importance.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimNmsPNJot47uM3qAvntYWwQ1_fl_msNSFn4mTtByYHxuzCJOny7j6Dq1soGYNLnclDHF-qo2bK7W8ShRl6SK2gEvYE5cKPhMJCrWV4ikUJGqoyx4YDZbCGQp9ONzIVROicTJzLXJ14WYF/s1600/Bathroom_Organization_Challenge_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimNmsPNJot47uM3qAvntYWwQ1_fl_msNSFn4mTtByYHxuzCJOny7j6Dq1soGYNLnclDHF-qo2bK7W8ShRl6SK2gEvYE5cKPhMJCrWV4ikUJGqoyx4YDZbCGQp9ONzIVROicTJzLXJ14WYF/s1600/Bathroom_Organization_Challenge_2.jpg" /></a></div><br />As I mentioned, the bathroom is tired and dated and although this challenge is more about getting high traffic areas of our life back to a happy place, I decided to take on a little extra this week.  Nothing major, just a little refresh to keep me excited to maintain the space and motivate me to bring back some order.   <br /><br />But first, the plan of attack.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir9k5bMX-SZFgvjyzq8deKNSVAYgP9hGD9hYtdurdIBm-enR4wQJyasD39HzfiUQ41i4GOU-FBXQ3X1vMSWIfju1bmKHdewnGFHXP2pTK9CJ4DNa52IBknn9FK12920d_vfB3BcK1c_zxN/s1600/BathroomProjectExample.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEir9k5bMX-SZFgvjyzq8deKNSVAYgP9hGD9hYtdurdIBm-enR4wQJyasD39HzfiUQ41i4GOU-FBXQ3X1vMSWIfju1bmKHdewnGFHXP2pTK9CJ4DNa52IBknn9FK12920d_vfB3BcK1c_zxN/s1600/BathroomProjectExample.png" /></a></div><br /><br />There are some things we have implemented that are working:<br /><ul><li>A place for dirty clothing</li><li>His & Hers toiletry bins</li><li>Cleaning products under the sink</li><li>Hooks on the back of the door</li><li>Keeping toiletries pre-packed for travel</li></ul><br />And a lot that is not:<br /><ul><li>Countertop clutter</li><li>Makeup storage</li><li>Hair accessory storage (do bobby pins reproduce while we sleep?)</li><li>Too many unused toiletries</li><li>Too many unused storage options</li><li>Laziness - we are not always great about putting things back where they belong</li><li>Gross grout</li></ul><br />What is it about toiletries?  I was having a convo with a friend about them the other day.  Instead of trying something new and then not loving it and letting it sit in a cabinet or drawer for a few years because I feel too yucky about tossing it out, why not just stick with the products I love time and time again?  Darn marketing, I must be a sucker for it!  <br /><br />For this organizing challenge, just like all others, I completely emptied the space.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtYgo-ENr5f6jg7wJsPadYcC-QqXRb7FU0HN60W7ON3v8nQQ7riTXkFBY6UP2Usq_gKZIOfCXLDnYsL0cKW4xJYm5gu0Pi-Ny-PfiCiyfhkyP9bUSvHPiii3N8TtDp_ADjXUFsHhLm-dxy/s1600/Bathroom_Organization_Challenge_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjtYgo-ENr5f6jg7wJsPadYcC-QqXRb7FU0HN60W7ON3v8nQQ7riTXkFBY6UP2Usq_gKZIOfCXLDnYsL0cKW4xJYm5gu0Pi-Ny-PfiCiyfhkyP9bUSvHPiii3N8TtDp_ADjXUFsHhLm-dxy/s1600/Bathroom_Organization_Challenge_5.jpg" /></a></div><br />Like 100% emptied it.  I sorted everything into my <i>Keep</i>, <i>Toss</i>, <i>Donate</i> & <i>Sell</i> bins.  Any toiletries that were newer and over half full, I set aside to see if any friends or family would be interested in them.  I ultimately purged over half of the belongings in the bathroom and was left with a single bin of items to keep.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFBjaPBJNB7HSYinxc5-l1k0D632ziNCxH53MscdeWmHq7zmzNBVFWqenqx7jUGFyqlC2TWQ6auZ3yYiRubDuvYMHLO0YCvp2AD3xVw25ctLdTTYVHTd9Uu2eaRUA_5fN5HwfpFMzKZ-5g/s1600/Bathroom_Organization_Challenge_10.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhFBjaPBJNB7HSYinxc5-l1k0D632ziNCxH53MscdeWmHq7zmzNBVFWqenqx7jUGFyqlC2TWQ6auZ3yYiRubDuvYMHLO0YCvp2AD3xVw25ctLdTTYVHTd9Uu2eaRUA_5fN5HwfpFMzKZ-5g/s1600/Bathroom_Organization_Challenge_10.jpg" /></a></div><br />After I wiped everything down, the bathroom was already in much better shape.  But I was ready to freshen things up a bit more, so I reached for a color I had previously tested on the walls for our living room/kitchen, and painted the entire bathroom a coat of Sea Salt by Sherwin Williams.  So pretty!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhmhMu3JS1I-0voJdR_0c1T7rFKbRin6BbgsodD7HWxf-jifrUB_xw8esty_OhtiIe0rRwYXeQ2EHrL-iSjvseEtW-v-8ui09nuXsKjjaSNQR4XqM2XX5EIPhikAb2MUNoEdFvdMMD6wtC/s1600/Bathroom_Organization_Challenge_9.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjhmhMu3JS1I-0voJdR_0c1T7rFKbRin6BbgsodD7HWxf-jifrUB_xw8esty_OhtiIe0rRwYXeQ2EHrL-iSjvseEtW-v-8ui09nuXsKjjaSNQR4XqM2XX5EIPhikAb2MUNoEdFvdMMD6wtC/s1600/Bathroom_Organization_Challenge_9.jpg" /></a></div><br />I actually quite loved the color before, but it was always hard to decorate around and felt a little bit dark for the windowless space.  In fact, it almost felt like a college student's bathroom, not a space for two grown adults.  The new color is essentially a lighter version, and one coat later the room already felt much larger and much more soothing.  Definitely worth the few hours of my time.<br /><br />I am amped up and ready to start putting things back and organizing the heck out of this bathroom, but first I have to address the floors and grout.  <a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2014/03/monthly-clean-home-challenge-scrub-grout.html" target="_blank">The last time I cleaned it</a>, it looked amazing for a good month before it started to show wear again.  I would never recommend white grout for a bathroom floor.  Especially white, unsealed grout. <br /><br />So today I am back to scrubbing trim and grout, caulking in some bad spots near the shower and then using some grout renew and sealer to fix things up a bit.  I have been wanting to do this for well over a year, so no better time to just get it done while the bathroom is emptied out.  I will be sure to share my thoughts on the process as I have read a few mixed reviews.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi6HbiMmCgfBifuT8Myt6e6HEjZgdxLilioHSuV0jypo1MRSeNRzG-0EtC3e_CIlBp7Z0EAqUE3PKNyTnL-kF8VQYS_NlvM3xh50H_ujWPoBP0IUqVkhX3QVHzhTauZJz8owOFtdHLdwfc/s1600/Bathroom_Organization_Challenge_6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhi6HbiMmCgfBifuT8Myt6e6HEjZgdxLilioHSuV0jypo1MRSeNRzG-0EtC3e_CIlBp7Z0EAqUE3PKNyTnL-kF8VQYS_NlvM3xh50H_ujWPoBP0IUqVkhX3QVHzhTauZJz8owOFtdHLdwfc/s1600/Bathroom_Organization_Challenge_6.jpg" /></a></div><br />Once the floor is done, then I have a few small projects up my sleeves and a lot of organizing ahead of me.  Let the fun begin!<br /><br /><i>You can find all of the challenge details in this post <a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2015/06/four-week-wait-no-more-organizing.html" target="_blank">here</a>, and also download some FREE project planning printables to help you get started!</i><br /><br />

Four Week "Wait-No-More" Organizing Challenge! Week 3 - Master Bathroom Organization Plan

Welcome to Week Three of the "Wait-No-More" Organizing Challenge . To recap, I am focusing on four main areas of our life that ne...

Read more »

DIY Magnetic Memo Board

Welcome to my latest therapy session.  I say that, because it seems like so many of my posts recently have been all about "keepin' it real" and sharing our stumbles.  Today is no different pals.  Today's project could be summarized as follows:<br /><br /><span style="color: #999999;"><b>BUDGET:</b></span> Too much, probably could have purchased something new for less<br /><span style="color: #999999;"><b>TIME:</b></span> Felt like 82 Hours<br /><span style="color: #999999;"><b>NUMBER OF TRIES:</b></span> 3<br /><br />But hey!  Third time is a charm right?  And everything that didn't go right over the course of the past five days, all worked out in the end.  In fact, I think all of the frustrations and errors ended up creating an outcome better than I had hoped! <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYUoU2DigtS6kyKXP3M3RayVkXCicRUorcq27hhZ-Hg3xbDAxgto2BYI7ySaxLVz4t0vLVgn8XB_2RHpNZwCq1OP0ynVU79W_G8LJrk1eEktaUL3oQFwvB4hn1pSqxpSAL9bS5HhE9tVcT/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_Header.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgYUoU2DigtS6kyKXP3M3RayVkXCicRUorcq27hhZ-Hg3xbDAxgto2BYI7ySaxLVz4t0vLVgn8XB_2RHpNZwCq1OP0ynVU79W_G8LJrk1eEktaUL3oQFwvB4hn1pSqxpSAL9bS5HhE9tVcT/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_Header.png" /></a></div><br />That's right.  This post was initially slated to go live on Friday.  But by Friday, I was still gazing not-so-lovingly at this pile.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSZEM49GWSq8OGU5-mvGKH0a6p99IEuBgZMam-UCZIFwADQ59qAaBE0fbCxNOlhI2vS_XCKLq5qUbJUWjcBsQIRRyHZ5iXMsl6opHJvz_DOb9iRAdT2JLeHFxiJpAv2i60Gv4LWHsFISSS/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjSZEM49GWSq8OGU5-mvGKH0a6p99IEuBgZMam-UCZIFwADQ59qAaBE0fbCxNOlhI2vS_XCKLq5qUbJUWjcBsQIRRyHZ5iXMsl6opHJvz_DOb9iRAdT2JLeHFxiJpAv2i60Gv4LWHsFISSS/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_1.jpg" /></a></div><br />One thing we have been missing since removing our kitchen wall is some sort of a command station.  Previously, it was hidden on the side of our fridge and was a spot to place cleaning checklists and calendars.  Sometimes in decorative frames, sometimes just with magnets; it didn't really matter how cluttered it got because it was not visible to anyone but us.  <br /><br />The newer kitchen layout doesn't offer the same clutter catching corner, so this time around I wanted to create something much more intentional and attractive.  For quite awhile, I have had it in my mind we would create something similar to <a href="http://www.marthastewart.com/1064603/entryway-organizer-how" target="_blank">this</a>.  I liked the idea of having a place to put up notes, calendars, memos, etc... as well as a temporary mail holder and hooks for keys.  So much function in such a small amount of space!<br /><br />Above, you can see my original plan was to utilize an inexpensive cork board purchased from Target, a decorative towel bar, cup hooks and Command Strips.  I covered a similar style cork board to create <a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2014/11/master-bedroom-refresh-how-we-saved.html" target="_blank">a jewelry zone in our closet</a>, and I really liked the outcome of that project.  I figured I would do the same for the side of our fridge, but I never found a fabric I liked well enough and the proportions of the cork board were all wrong (too wide and not tall enough).<br /><br />So after thinking of ways to make it work, I decided to scratch that idea all together.<br /><br />Then, I recalled we already had made <a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2011/03/project-teal-chalk-it-to-me-again.html" target="_blank">a pretty menu board</a> in our old kitchen about four years ago.  I dusted it off, and was excited that the size was much closer to what I had in mind!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT9A6nK_meC5dxMog9fVwuAsvDhZZv_ylJBW0ddqjvSIlYytwSgs6W14-eXAxsuMJLjt0dWqJjzGnQl3pkVLLvVJll4BsCxRu62KU7t3ciF-g7Q5dRz7iWCtBhG1_Jr8Zj4W3RHOgvs2c_/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiT9A6nK_meC5dxMog9fVwuAsvDhZZv_ylJBW0ddqjvSIlYytwSgs6W14-eXAxsuMJLjt0dWqJjzGnQl3pkVLLvVJll4BsCxRu62KU7t3ciF-g7Q5dRz7iWCtBhG1_Jr8Zj4W3RHOgvs2c_/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_2.jpg" /></a></div><br />The only problem was that the chalkboard portion was not functional other than for writing (could not be used with pushpins or magnets) and I didn't love the painted finish.  I really wanted something with a wood tone and knew I would be able to add some metal sheeting to make the board magnetic.  <br /><br />I began researching stripping techniques (whooooah fellas, I am not talking pole dancing type moves here) and went out to purchase the necessary supplies to remove the painted finish.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieL_58BZvFnNtmltX1OvoLYGzLsLQHoQSZdRkw9g8xJNczKFSKZt8lSs4gkhgTf3y2v1UhxNotve36cQwqVzuGj32sONSsrDy0JUmtK_UN1gnK5CpbFjh_P37Ns9h_NpHfjV4DeBCvaJCA/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_4-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieL_58BZvFnNtmltX1OvoLYGzLsLQHoQSZdRkw9g8xJNczKFSKZt8lSs4gkhgTf3y2v1UhxNotve36cQwqVzuGj32sONSsrDy0JUmtK_UN1gnK5CpbFjh_P37Ns9h_NpHfjV4DeBCvaJCA/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_4-2.jpg" /></a></div><br />I quickly remembered I had painted this board two different colors at two different times.  And I don't know what I was doing wrong, but it took me hour after hour to remove the memo board paint.  I followed the directions on the can and from YouTube tutorials to a T, yet the wood had absorbed some of the blue and it wasn't coming out.  I scrubbed.  I tried to curse the paint away.  I put all of my muscles into it and got it as bare wood as I could.  Over four hours of wood stripping later and I decided it was ready to take a new stain color.<br /><br />Let's just say that after sanding, staining and giving it a coat of poly, it was so far from the look I was after, I was ready to scrap this entire project all together.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTaGrAJ66DRlHQx82bDZsFpHSX4F06I65w6N9hV-R8fXyFINv8usuXxGIFfS61K7njfiwP8qGhcD7uZV-7Ya8bstzSJyQxy3zD0Q-3hg4TWAEHuK5SmDxeFYl3XmIOcKHDKgT0d-h3CfkO/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgTaGrAJ66DRlHQx82bDZsFpHSX4F06I65w6N9hV-R8fXyFINv8usuXxGIFfS61K7njfiwP8qGhcD7uZV-7Ya8bstzSJyQxy3zD0Q-3hg4TWAEHuK5SmDxeFYl3XmIOcKHDKgT0d-h3CfkO/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_5.jpg" /></a></div><br />But I am not a quitter.  Knowing that <a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2015/06/four-week-wait-no-more-organizing.html" target="_blank">we need to get our acts together</a> and work on time management and household responsibilities again, this project just HAD to get done.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqfbvEVNqC-miLqCz7-UReyOijoJd02lJ67D_sFQ4_Bb_YRq1RbcAn3CsjHWKUQexePum77YZzB5Jc1yajWg4B6Cy9DPvMAUqci5k4TTOwgpMSf6HmP0H02XlWySFzU6Nk0v5TTAy0Grro/s1600/Photo+Jun+08%252C+5+53+47+PM.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgqfbvEVNqC-miLqCz7-UReyOijoJd02lJ67D_sFQ4_Bb_YRq1RbcAn3CsjHWKUQexePum77YZzB5Jc1yajWg4B6Cy9DPvMAUqci5k4TTOwgpMSf6HmP0H02XlWySFzU6Nk0v5TTAy0Grro/s1600/Photo+Jun+08%252C+5+53+47+PM.png" /></a></div><br />So back to Home Depot I went, and I picked up 1/2" inch poplar boards in both 3" and 4" widths (actually, as you can see above, I picked up a few different options but below is what we ended up using).  A total of 18" wide and 40" tall, we set out to DIY a frame for the magnetic sheet metal.   <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpSmh5w6RiMQU69b_q2IVM8LK-jYuRTiq0cBkSIyTqPk5bSO9HxjSyi52_LGPC80XV-Qh3KCEEIs6xlaxDgyTCCvR7lZ-axXZXCXdcMBZBylqVwvTN0s7cnWfpBktUVgbqcPYgiNLrckEU/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpSmh5w6RiMQU69b_q2IVM8LK-jYuRTiq0cBkSIyTqPk5bSO9HxjSyi52_LGPC80XV-Qh3KCEEIs6xlaxDgyTCCvR7lZ-axXZXCXdcMBZBylqVwvTN0s7cnWfpBktUVgbqcPYgiNLrckEU/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_6.jpg" /></a></div><br />The idea was to add a small ledge to hold incoming mail and catalogs.  Plus, it is a cute little added detail.  We measured out the notch, used a square to draw straight lines and a jig-saw to cut it to fit.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX7bZUrgdgyBH5GRD3B-iql38uZqY9j-HABCsNhagufZYXu_p8CQRDgfb7v3MdJo-B3g9vhCjHa9m8u0a3CG7QNaga-hZ9Ly6W-uKM_x4eZ1WFEMATLow3PSINFP_R2MK7-OSVMgi2pa0g/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_10-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgX7bZUrgdgyBH5GRD3B-iql38uZqY9j-HABCsNhagufZYXu_p8CQRDgfb7v3MdJo-B3g9vhCjHa9m8u0a3CG7QNaga-hZ9Ly6W-uKM_x4eZ1WFEMATLow3PSINFP_R2MK7-OSVMgi2pa0g/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_10-2.jpg" /></a></div><br />When it came to stain options, I tried out the Special Walnut I had planned to use, and I was happy with the outcome just by dipping the rag, blotting it on a scrap piece of wood and rubbing it over the poplar boards.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm7H9MiLox8wr9uegKEke4MpbTfyQtnw-R_1o2H1OXKUWZg1qP9hkoyU0Pp5qQICG5YJuJywldUjvfboKJCyWbvQ7ySH20-6J1zwYnukDKy-2GpqXrJM2glMPVYBpyXpdRLvyKybR7Gh6N/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm7H9MiLox8wr9uegKEke4MpbTfyQtnw-R_1o2H1OXKUWZg1qP9hkoyU0Pp5qQICG5YJuJywldUjvfboKJCyWbvQ7ySH20-6J1zwYnukDKy-2GpqXrJM2glMPVYBpyXpdRLvyKybR7Gh6N/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_8.jpg" /></a></div><br />To tone it down a smidge and add a little extra dimension, I brushed on a little Weathered Oak.  I really liked the outcome of the two combined.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_NjRgRZve4A4agdhN3bKufZSTn6iI8NfSL4cbtQ54nPp1qQ8LUuC2pcmeg6rTon4gREUCSLRy6LnnM5jnpSqnjcz4Gi8Lm06qeKAik-jfBdanJH9cqJGrJVcSZpke5uGg4kXGQ0DDHhMt/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_7.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_NjRgRZve4A4agdhN3bKufZSTn6iI8NfSL4cbtQ54nPp1qQ8LUuC2pcmeg6rTon4gREUCSLRy6LnnM5jnpSqnjcz4Gi8Lm06qeKAik-jfBdanJH9cqJGrJVcSZpke5uGg4kXGQ0DDHhMt/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_7.jpg" /></a></div><br />After I stained the frame boards, I followed up with a coat of poly.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQTMEK2-egYfaiS0cgHfLlma1rfLZLOIUgL76vrYx6CR6AwDt7uAaqGrR6Us_VGY3u8AL75lpKaCUqCrpbYkEmtvzZWmlaM7lvFoGLH-PfvUnmPxazRHIJ-sH3Nb0k73pALIw1M51CaUD6/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_13.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgQTMEK2-egYfaiS0cgHfLlma1rfLZLOIUgL76vrYx6CR6AwDt7uAaqGrR6Us_VGY3u8AL75lpKaCUqCrpbYkEmtvzZWmlaM7lvFoGLH-PfvUnmPxazRHIJ-sH3Nb0k73pALIw1M51CaUD6/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_13.jpg" /></a></div><br />While the stain and poly were drying, we began cutting the sheet metal.  This was a very long and tedious process, given the size of the piece we were working with.  We purchased a 2'x4' piece of steel sheet metal from Fleet Farm; it is important to make sure the type you are purchasing is actually magnetic.  To get it to our desired size, we measured and then used a tin snips to slowly cut along our lines (bending and rolling the excess side away as we cut).<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiaSL8eksXwaeGF6a0QWFalQHZa1LGo3To00VOCS5q8nkK_pu1taa5LctYN2GKQZzFgs7HZoifhtbJWNwdbu13coDZv2mQ-HDMSWqwX92RT49y541CrxvN4CTQuIi2mcbQUBxmIg5NpSr7/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_12-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiaSL8eksXwaeGF6a0QWFalQHZa1LGo3To00VOCS5q8nkK_pu1taa5LctYN2GKQZzFgs7HZoifhtbJWNwdbu13coDZv2mQ-HDMSWqwX92RT49y541CrxvN4CTQuIi2mcbQUBxmIg5NpSr7/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_12-2.jpg" /></a></div><br />Once the piece was cut to size, I rolled on two coats of deep charcoal paint as well as two coats of clear chalkboard paint.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4YBPYO5f9W9fz9foXcwIbX6UEnWXZNy7kEj7N8y21TV7rv0QHhksh9y-5sv5GBzylX3B8lrVYBMcxtSnG2CcRNJ6t7SWCiGR9pXihHt30VMKcySs6xU1alzExdYaHXJs-bIFVz6SJgHvw/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_13-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg4YBPYO5f9W9fz9foXcwIbX6UEnWXZNy7kEj7N8y21TV7rv0QHhksh9y-5sv5GBzylX3B8lrVYBMcxtSnG2CcRNJ6t7SWCiGR9pXihHt30VMKcySs6xU1alzExdYaHXJs-bIFVz6SJgHvw/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_13-2.jpg" /></a></div><br />After everything was dry, we began assembling the frame.  To give us a little stability while we worked, we used our staple gun to connect all of the frame pieces at the corners.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0Wcw5raPPvg5JKKP1SeHha3apZ7Y65PH4RWqvyPWS3gbRefBTC3qH-lRsbIJSLkGFpCiwyUYFbCopQcRAFfJiz6xUqbRfOg4LoTKg-PNO2R5JtcAaNjEMqdGHZrExyRbzFgVLapcmNEBN/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_15-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi0Wcw5raPPvg5JKKP1SeHha3apZ7Y65PH4RWqvyPWS3gbRefBTC3qH-lRsbIJSLkGFpCiwyUYFbCopQcRAFfJiz6xUqbRfOg4LoTKg-PNO2R5JtcAaNjEMqdGHZrExyRbzFgVLapcmNEBN/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_15-2.jpg" /></a></div><br />Using some heavy duty construction adhesive, we ran the glue around the entire backside of the frame.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizREMAv8Xt3TwqgSiRaO1LC54q7VlImWLDxLtvSX_wsbIdwauq4IVz1KGZL97tP-7f3BbtDrF4z2ejCV3hxgw8qWd7pM7O6bJ0JzHmaiO49qUDj3ixu5L3YdccMfMvgKrloSbssKKJUxFs/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_16.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEizREMAv8Xt3TwqgSiRaO1LC54q7VlImWLDxLtvSX_wsbIdwauq4IVz1KGZL97tP-7f3BbtDrF4z2ejCV3hxgw8qWd7pM7O6bJ0JzHmaiO49qUDj3ixu5L3YdccMfMvgKrloSbssKKJUxFs/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_16.jpg" /></a></div><br />We then placed down the painted sheet metal, pre-drilled and screwed the sheet metal into the wood frame around the entire perimeter with 1/2" wood screws.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrTiK7QHr6mcqg7lOhY_7CpJfqNbA80ZYpUnx0JIDWhuOspYyGf9hIypSeFELlmALwR8CuZzYi9keQ83mEmpF9APQfjo4DbUzanlUB4SjNmdvus-HmS_9OgVUr7bEsz4VeKj-eSGZvGk_4/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrTiK7QHr6mcqg7lOhY_7CpJfqNbA80ZYpUnx0JIDWhuOspYyGf9hIypSeFELlmALwR8CuZzYi9keQ83mEmpF9APQfjo4DbUzanlUB4SjNmdvus-HmS_9OgVUr7bEsz4VeKj-eSGZvGk_4/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_17.jpg" /></a></div><br />After we flipped over the assembled memo board, I noticed that the construction adhesive was oozing onto the painted sheet metal.  In an effort to remove the glue, all of the paint began scratching off with it.  Sigh...<br /><br />So, I fake smiled as I hand scraped the entire magnetic sheet clean to create a blank slate (a now completely assembled and framed out slate).  Another blessing in disguise, I was out of the deep charcoal color, so I went to my paint cabinet to begin experimenting with alternative options.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio_8uYuLgJ_4XzZV1NyPsnY4zZxLXLdziVbQy9Oy4qzAeoKYJgO6SZ7_rCMfPeOqF7hsyFfwKvLeFhfqYNNzXh_Kx92vSWheIKXZCUvOkDZB_CBxom6uSqVkaxt1gyhRqcda0cHLvRtykY/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_26.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEio_8uYuLgJ_4XzZV1NyPsnY4zZxLXLdziVbQy9Oy4qzAeoKYJgO6SZ7_rCMfPeOqF7hsyFfwKvLeFhfqYNNzXh_Kx92vSWheIKXZCUvOkDZB_CBxom6uSqVkaxt1gyhRqcda0cHLvRtykY/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_26.jpg" /></a></div><br />I mixed our current wall color with white to lighten it and also tried mixing it with <a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2015/03/a-coat-closet-makeover-again.html" target="_blank">our coat closet color</a> to darken it.  I liked the darker option best.<br /><br />This time, I taped things off and painted two coats of white primer onto the steel sheet metal with a microfiber mini-roller.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4sO67w1T65opyH7cSHIs10SRaAuCkcQ5QUSkJZ6Njww9SZtEAOWiC6m01n-SK0exx9QkcdoCk2TrxZY63JOi6KS0CgsZtvhYWZtwdd9ZKfoB8JYPjRzQxPEaGUuzTIFOq5mqh6RxKso3c/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_24-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj4sO67w1T65opyH7cSHIs10SRaAuCkcQ5QUSkJZ6Njww9SZtEAOWiC6m01n-SK0exx9QkcdoCk2TrxZY63JOi6KS0CgsZtvhYWZtwdd9ZKfoB8JYPjRzQxPEaGUuzTIFOq5mqh6RxKso3c/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_24-2.jpg" /></a></div><br />Once dry, I followed up with two more coats of the custom mixed paint color.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMRjr9NRrZOzaq_yGseuNehMnI-XHx0SgHUj-xtvzv8QOWPY1rY_R58_8KVRuPzrzgwn3rxHpqBEjNxTGfpl4xFNrpOv4F3DEuRvqLLsgwVTDY7FBKZ-zrtuUQ8tqOcT4Ic7MD8Q6w6bBE/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_27.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMRjr9NRrZOzaq_yGseuNehMnI-XHx0SgHUj-xtvzv8QOWPY1rY_R58_8KVRuPzrzgwn3rxHpqBEjNxTGfpl4xFNrpOv4F3DEuRvqLLsgwVTDY7FBKZ-zrtuUQ8tqOcT4Ic7MD8Q6w6bBE/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_27.jpg" /></a></div><br />I love the lighter and brighter effect vs. the deep charcoal I originally had selected.<br /><br />While all of this was happening, we also had to address the long towel bar rod.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjILYvPm9Wf__wRywgexWgxi9Y21AeAAde96Hix8KJTzuYLF2zyyNYv6CoRoh-2q4IXI08Vdhn3Swfto_TYLRS5gDOKrMayNCZbTxO0xh4o7KjbDmswNvS1VjPfV_xfdaDNsSucirsgjGG2/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjILYvPm9Wf__wRywgexWgxi9Y21AeAAde96Hix8KJTzuYLF2zyyNYv6CoRoh-2q4IXI08Vdhn3Swfto_TYLRS5gDOKrMayNCZbTxO0xh4o7KjbDmswNvS1VjPfV_xfdaDNsSucirsgjGG2/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_19.jpg" /></a></div><br />The way <a href="http://www.ikea.com/us/en/catalog/products/40213839/" target="_blank">the rod from IKEA</a> works, is that it fits between the two holders on either end, and is then capped off for a finished look.  To shorten the rod, we easily cut it with a plumbing pipe cutter.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimxZOMbIE3D4vpcd4rYHFHQuxoopWKP4kEjMmOEXu-tIbhg6jWnQ3329K7qdluWhq3mip31VmZMYk801gLyM89szvJra-qRHv0fDvcU_mP4J_Z0g2gKyoA_mm_YnEYWDQOx7nVh3EOQO1O/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEimxZOMbIE3D4vpcd4rYHFHQuxoopWKP4kEjMmOEXu-tIbhg6jWnQ3329K7qdluWhq3mip31VmZMYk801gLyM89szvJra-qRHv0fDvcU_mP4J_Z0g2gKyoA_mm_YnEYWDQOx7nVh3EOQO1O/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_20.jpg" /></a></div><br />I knew I wanted the rod to be gold to balance out all of the polished nickel and stainless steel that we have been adding lately, so I got out my primer and aged brass spray paint (same method I used for <a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2015/03/iheart-kitchen-reno-getting-handle-on.html" target="_blank">the hanging pendants</a>).<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_vRPJCyXR-rgOQheDgvxuKorQbts1r748YPmbpKLf5rdF45m5CPkNOfwJIFR7ZKq9GidQtpBNI1M15P_zt1Wq5BJ1NkZx-EIYHkdu_hHXs2qISG8_o-eyeX6kCnUUBmzl8ANe6mhVjMGP/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_21.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj_vRPJCyXR-rgOQheDgvxuKorQbts1r748YPmbpKLf5rdF45m5CPkNOfwJIFR7ZKq9GidQtpBNI1M15P_zt1Wq5BJ1NkZx-EIYHkdu_hHXs2qISG8_o-eyeX6kCnUUBmzl8ANe6mhVjMGP/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_21.jpg" /></a></div><br />After the rod was sprayed, it was still a little lack-luster against the stained wood frame, so I followed it up with a coat of gold Rub-n-Buff.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiwkGjZlkBjeeu98u1zFeJCESJJKsR7Vg_Jx6UDnPrC7mmPxcqwQYSxsuAfIoDRaQHXwM6K7LmnabzxegY5hbRvl5x_cvhf6QZsRt7aaDqVk_2frxEW6nkc1858Xla3W1hLY_BuCfBGxKE/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_22.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgiwkGjZlkBjeeu98u1zFeJCESJJKsR7Vg_Jx6UDnPrC7mmPxcqwQYSxsuAfIoDRaQHXwM6K7LmnabzxegY5hbRvl5x_cvhf6QZsRt7aaDqVk_2frxEW6nkc1858Xla3W1hLY_BuCfBGxKE/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_22.jpg" /></a></div><br />Once the new paint color was dry, we continued to finish up the frame by affixing the top piece of moulding and the lower shelf with our brad nailer (I may still add the clear chalkboard paint down the road again once the new paint is fully cured).<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7TebpyTYBkWmB3CfjrwbQDYAGAfu_zoZ1Er4o0wB-J95gvhkiYBGBWr9IwTzfkEaON39BtnRX0RL9JHdM-_l5YMN7OgM2v5ef8s64UMRVC00DnDwqaWTnyfiom9ZB9TIVidWqwuNYbfNz/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_29-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj7TebpyTYBkWmB3CfjrwbQDYAGAfu_zoZ1Er4o0wB-J95gvhkiYBGBWr9IwTzfkEaON39BtnRX0RL9JHdM-_l5YMN7OgM2v5ef8s64UMRVC00DnDwqaWTnyfiom9ZB9TIVidWqwuNYbfNz/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_29-2.jpg" /></a></div><br />And the final step in the assembly process was to add a few gold cup hooks to the bottom portion of the frame to hold our keys (pre-drill and then screw-in the hooks tightly).  It is important to select hooks that will not poke through the back side of the frame and scratch your wall surface when hung.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi20YhLw2xDrojn3c9jTUSI8UnqE8boDhg89e1ZJ-Dh-uU_jSNsbZl-XKealycFtCY7b4GLT-gHx_osL5SXpoLie_MzrJBBCtlwGk5WxRR_eLk2J7JZusbEBc3YjKjzTHc50oiuKYK3CuPy/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_31-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi20YhLw2xDrojn3c9jTUSI8UnqE8boDhg89e1ZJ-Dh-uU_jSNsbZl-XKealycFtCY7b4GLT-gHx_osL5SXpoLie_MzrJBBCtlwGk5WxRR_eLk2J7JZusbEBc3YjKjzTHc50oiuKYK3CuPy/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_31-2.jpg" /></a></div><br />The entire thing is a bit heavy, so I picked up two packages of 16 pound rated Command Strips.  Following the directions on the package, we wiped everything down with Isopropyl Alcohol prior to affixing the strips.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu9Itq2p4A6f-PMV7YhygPwtRaaT8tipGtBkde2S2IYKCpCw0iZyWacqpRoEjSPwLna1MMJZA0mP9ccsR6yv_Bw7Ng82tVhpY_36fnbFks8N6QdGo_JKWa9MXv7dMjmhgPXzGems7XsnCr/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_32.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgu9Itq2p4A6f-PMV7YhygPwtRaaT8tipGtBkde2S2IYKCpCw0iZyWacqpRoEjSPwLna1MMJZA0mP9ccsR6yv_Bw7Ng82tVhpY_36fnbFks8N6QdGo_JKWa9MXv7dMjmhgPXzGems7XsnCr/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_32.jpg" /></a></div><br />Level, stick, press, hold, press, run, pray.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3xsTcTg8_EswiBy96sruiu7BFw_ZIvpEHJhLWBTpmXbErU-eF26BCppzQTH5fUVH9wW1Q4x7R0tX-0wzvSQzJwpjEhgOUIWZYSlZVz8jIWs5O3sW6sC6fjmYsR7kgzbgnStec5IUfqnXK/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_33.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj3xsTcTg8_EswiBy96sruiu7BFw_ZIvpEHJhLWBTpmXbErU-eF26BCppzQTH5fUVH9wW1Q4x7R0tX-0wzvSQzJwpjEhgOUIWZYSlZVz8jIWs5O3sW6sC6fjmYsR7kgzbgnStec5IUfqnXK/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_33.jpg" /></a></div><br />Ready to see how lovely she finally turned out, multiple days later?<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8ERuK4bPOTwmOARq3ubCJAjPOZCxJG0KUYXTXmDQ0sa6jaWSlwAHgdyigSYOqKN8088aXROuNB8clVTWtsbNVrmQDLVwztVAaCcJpJbXQLKM47e6cQuE99548vv58XQwpzi0FaZdcMCH-/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_35-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi8ERuK4bPOTwmOARq3ubCJAjPOZCxJG0KUYXTXmDQ0sa6jaWSlwAHgdyigSYOqKN8088aXROuNB8clVTWtsbNVrmQDLVwztVAaCcJpJbXQLKM47e6cQuE99548vv58XQwpzi0FaZdcMCH-/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_35-2.jpg" /></a></div><br />Like I said, so many blessings in disguise and it turned out so much better than I initially imagined.  So very excited about the magnetic feature, I went to my fabric scraps and button making kit and whipped up a few colorful magnets for the new board!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGoP_BejuYRbKfAklzl6SEr68KspqhYV3K7Y_8EIdwPh_kuCBWphwQJChJ8jS6v3JQz7k9B5idnY003WjYZ2u9XkT40EmTMXkR051dq1-XkA22C1qQYcDtPHMZERoT1Gv6X36fB9kbXjfm/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_38-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhGoP_BejuYRbKfAklzl6SEr68KspqhYV3K7Y_8EIdwPh_kuCBWphwQJChJ8jS6v3JQz7k9B5idnY003WjYZ2u9XkT40EmTMXkR051dq1-XkA22C1qQYcDtPHMZERoT1Gv6X36fB9kbXjfm/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_38-2.jpg" /></a></div><br />And although the board will ultimately hold daily mail and our calendars/schedules (working on those this week), I couldn't wait to give it a test spin.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS3yEyvEFg49R0tEFbaWfRe7Jwq8r9q2NwSYk_Ns4hk8W6sFnyymaTX_S_hElYygslbxZd7BPOGNMAQSOxQUYAZn2QAGZKKItuNNfinFQuur_qxsv03AxRi-MaKM6uYxm7xY_ICZ7ZXXKK/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_44-2.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgS3yEyvEFg49R0tEFbaWfRe7Jwq8r9q2NwSYk_Ns4hk8W6sFnyymaTX_S_hElYygslbxZd7BPOGNMAQSOxQUYAZn2QAGZKKItuNNfinFQuur_qxsv03AxRi-MaKM6uYxm7xY_ICZ7ZXXKK/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_44-2.jpg" /></a></div><br />The wood tone turned out so lovely, and I really like how the new color plays with everything else we already have going on.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMjgvnxagmtR93BXhDOP76MwC3015B4EDltm6KWqxvQzkZuHSPMOymSI-zRT5mPyFRi4CWFt0B5z-5IMYTzrg-eRR0NOdNjMF-Y2hCbPy0UG0tMCqUqbsx4PC8UJ_mdgshi4kOzOfpfKd4/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_47.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjMjgvnxagmtR93BXhDOP76MwC3015B4EDltm6KWqxvQzkZuHSPMOymSI-zRT5mPyFRi4CWFt0B5z-5IMYTzrg-eRR0NOdNjMF-Y2hCbPy0UG0tMCqUqbsx4PC8UJ_mdgshi4kOzOfpfKd4/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_47.jpg" /></a></div><br />And the hooks at the bottom add such a sweet and special little detail to the entire project.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhluNnEf4SLPyBLKNnwWU_1uChhcI0uWaq1KtBVj5E0oeyijXUbVTCnO5JcTo8jNf37YOGGzAMc3kAOXlPcrgZLdxCjVRX5o5q0i0E59MjgSl1JelOv3Gsop56lCNkFMkNCnCF1-yseB98N/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_40.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhluNnEf4SLPyBLKNnwWU_1uChhcI0uWaq1KtBVj5E0oeyijXUbVTCnO5JcTo8jNf37YOGGzAMc3kAOXlPcrgZLdxCjVRX5o5q0i0E59MjgSl1JelOv3Gsop56lCNkFMkNCnCF1-yseB98N/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_40.jpg" /></a></div><br />While the rail does its job at holding mail and magazines in place.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTUpR_L-Asi1wo53SFnh4kAGdBKyUatjQBqA72zFYBAw-tKfD_bZYXiiPwCYg5N3lDFP7wO3ZBTnDNUEemfMZm8leT3AheJOje9C9HSIkUOK3p2hwtjs6jd6wHz1eTfV6QqWtESVaXzK1W/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_42.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhTUpR_L-Asi1wo53SFnh4kAGdBKyUatjQBqA72zFYBAw-tKfD_bZYXiiPwCYg5N3lDFP7wO3ZBTnDNUEemfMZm8leT3AheJOje9C9HSIkUOK3p2hwtjs6jd6wHz1eTfV6QqWtESVaXzK1W/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_42.jpg" /></a></div><br />I purchased some strong magnets from the hardware store and affixed them to the bottom side of the buttons with superglue.  They can hold through multiple layers of paper so those also get a thumbs up from me!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhygZ0NiPrw7nXznPceuuwS4jr9lJ8-55lrwS-wQb1MLHDhOA787dB3cRHrDg5tj4ejlezUmsYFV8lnSxlGOvRTzkw-yd3yF-TdSAbtxYRIZ2Gimj37HI6IxbCHA9J5KWpMO0H2v6gAHfYv/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_45.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhygZ0NiPrw7nXznPceuuwS4jr9lJ8-55lrwS-wQb1MLHDhOA787dB3cRHrDg5tj4ejlezUmsYFV8lnSxlGOvRTzkw-yd3yF-TdSAbtxYRIZ2Gimj37HI6IxbCHA9J5KWpMO0H2v6gAHfYv/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_45.jpg" /></a></div><br />Plus, they really just make the board happier!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBGcSxFSFa8EOcFMP8YUo-7z1aW1hcNclG6Nru3yUijduFDQVpepvNWWv-I0NDdUcJEt3yLKfFfz6xrHNKTxBfKW4as0HRN3zXuygv-2pULLhYQ65M6fosCBU-iNSQaZN9GtAue_RpmjEi/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_46.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBGcSxFSFa8EOcFMP8YUo-7z1aW1hcNclG6Nru3yUijduFDQVpepvNWWv-I0NDdUcJEt3yLKfFfz6xrHNKTxBfKW4as0HRN3zXuygv-2pULLhYQ65M6fosCBU-iNSQaZN9GtAue_RpmjEi/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_46.jpg" /></a></div><br />So there you have it!  Now that you have learned from all of <i>our</i> mistakes, it shouldn't be too hard to actually DIY one of these beauties.  And total cost was approximately:<br /><br /><ul><li>Wood: $12.00</li><li>Sheet Metal: $30.00</li><li>Stain/Paint: Had on hand, approx $4.50 for small stain and $3-4 for paint tester.</li><li>Rail: $9.00 </li><li>Hooks: $3.00</li><li><a href="http://www.homedepot.com/p/Command-Large-Bath-Picture-Hanging-Water-Resistant-Refill-Strips-4-Pack-17206B-ES/205520080" target="_blank">Command Strips</a> (optional): $10.00</li><li>My Happiness: Priceless</li></ul><br />This was definitely a turning lemons into lemonade type of story.  And also an "If at first you don't succeed; try and try again" process.  So happy we stuck it out!  And I am also smitten that it turned out to be something that I enjoy looking at.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKiWEvGVv4dyiJNcNnO2WW3IRqmFTLn-G9leI6oWPxqrhrrVi7WMkbUbVsoZlF1C8-0uHJ91cN9k5t9Rg_LnVqLzU_D9BZ3n0BOYfnMjzUt-J8_v3G8fMqJNtlD-0gAEm5J2LoiesmKYDy/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_39.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgKiWEvGVv4dyiJNcNnO2WW3IRqmFTLn-G9leI6oWPxqrhrrVi7WMkbUbVsoZlF1C8-0uHJ91cN9k5t9Rg_LnVqLzU_D9BZ3n0BOYfnMjzUt-J8_v3G8fMqJNtlD-0gAEm5J2LoiesmKYDy/s1600/DIY_Magnetic_Memo_Board_39.jpg" /></a></div><br />Now to get back to the rest of our weekly <a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2015/06/four-week-wait-no-more-organizing.html" target="_blank">"Wait-No-More" challenge</a>, I still have so much to do before Friday.  I am so excited to see what you all have been working on as well!<br /><br />

DIY Magnetic Memo Board

Welcome to my latest therapy session.  I say that, because it seems like so many of my posts recently have been all about "keepin' ...

Read more »

DIY Fireplace Built-In Tutorial

Today I am giving a warm welcome to Monday.  We took the weekend to focus on family fun activities and hosting some friends and family.  It felt really good to take a break from projects and the renovation, Bryan and I both needed a bit of a breather.<br /><br />It is still a giant post day!  I have finally compiled all of our photos and notes to share our fireplace built-in project, which we revealed <a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2015/05/one-room-challenge-week-6-iheart-living.html" target="_blank">here</a>.  We started purchasing the supplies on a Friday evening and about a week and a half later, we were tossing items onto the bookshelves for final photos.  A total of ten days in the making, this wasn't an overnight project, but it is one we are so incredibly happy with.  Given the number of photos and steps, I probably should have broken this into a couple of posts, but it always creates confusion down the road so I am piling all of it in a single place today.  Who's ready?!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm2wOgni_p_jGArk-7ozdQmXj4pvLGM9ZbRe0dQuQlnZ_1dgR1fklGbHxNlf1u8F0-F6zKSpEDH85u7mPjwnL4CLFhoZm6qZT4dZSEuPkOTuC05-l2yTOeuWDsUfCrP5e7w0FW-2NTvjnJ/s1600/ORC_Living_Room_Reveal_1.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjm2wOgni_p_jGArk-7ozdQmXj4pvLGM9ZbRe0dQuQlnZ_1dgR1fklGbHxNlf1u8F0-F6zKSpEDH85u7mPjwnL4CLFhoZm6qZT4dZSEuPkOTuC05-l2yTOeuWDsUfCrP5e7w0FW-2NTvjnJ/s1600/ORC_Living_Room_Reveal_1.jpg" /></a></div><br />Things have already changed a bit in the living room since the reveal, however, I will share more about that in an upcoming post.  Nothing major, just little tweaks as we live with things.  But now that you have seen the finished fireplace project, let's start back at the beginning.<br /><br />A fireplace has been on our wishlist for many years, and as an effort to keep this our "forever" home, we decided it was now or never.  Of course, we love how they look, but more importantly, it will be a nice source of heat for over half of the year in our cold weathered climate.  And is there anything better than curling up near a fireplace with a good book or magazine?  I have already done this multiple times and I have to say, it is fabulous!  Truly a home dream come true for us.<br /><br />As we began visiting local fireplace companies to get the scoop and research our options, we also started gathering ideas and coming up with a design for the built-ins.  The following items were on the built-in wish list:<br /><br /><ul><li>Wall mounted television to allow us to view it while cooking at the island in the kitchen, while sitting at the dining table and of course, while relaxing in the living area.  </li><li>A combination of open and concealed storage.</li><li>Hidden component cords.</li><li>A design that would mimic the style of the cabinets in the kitchen to marry the two spaces.</li><li>Narrow enough to reduce the amount of lost floor space.</li><li>Salvage the <a href="http://iheartorganizing.blogspot.com/2014/05/built-in-bookcase-beautiful-update.html" target="_blank">DIY'd glass doors we created last year. </a></li></ul><br />Based on those bullets, I whipped up a design that fit all of our wishes and presented it to Bryan.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsy5-eam_dWGj3R-vKACOy_jH8ILxZVmYzMZUtvOK-u1R2mJCnarRCsgCyDMBJguIOeW2FNTZgnu2_XFXV9GuRsrcf9s5KsEA4AaPAOxIbVz0dTkU854YnMPcEFm4aCNi4ARwyApCyE5Wl/s1600/FirePlaceDiagram.png" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhsy5-eam_dWGj3R-vKACOy_jH8ILxZVmYzMZUtvOK-u1R2mJCnarRCsgCyDMBJguIOeW2FNTZgnu2_XFXV9GuRsrcf9s5KsEA4AaPAOxIbVz0dTkU854YnMPcEFm4aCNi4ARwyApCyE5Wl/s1600/FirePlaceDiagram.png" /></a></div><br />Given the overall size of the built-in, we knew it would have to start in the corner of the room, vs. being centered and leaving negative space in the corner.  After we measured out the existing mirrored cabinets as well as the fireplace insert, we came up with the remaining measurements for the surround and shelving.  In total, the built-in ended up at 134" wide x 92"/96" tall x 16 1/2" deep.<br /><br />Supplies used for this project:<br /><ul><li>2x4's</li><li>2'x6's</li><li>1x4x8 poplar boards </li><li>3/4" 4x8 birch plywood</li><li>1/4" 4x8 birch plywood</li><li><a href="http://www.homedepot.com/p/American-Wood-Moulding-WM268-1-4-in-x-1-1-4-in-Pine-Lattice-Moulding-268-LF/100096303" target="_blank">Lattice Moulding</a></li><li><a href="http://www.homedepot.com/p/Finished-Elegance-WM49-7-16-in-x-3-5-8-in-MDF-Crown-Moulding-10001682/202998574?N=5yc1vZara1Z1z135qv" target="_blank">Crown moulding</a></li><li>Wood screws</li><li>Brad nails/nailer</li><li><a href="http://www.homedepot.com/p/Unbranded-13-16-in-x-25-ft-Birch-Edge-Tape-657608/202843396" target="_blank">Iron-on edging </a></li><li><a href="http://www.americanhearth.com/ah/index.php?view=madison-direct-vent-fireplaces" target="_blank">Fireplace insert - American Hearth DVD32 Series</a></li><li><a href="http://www.homedepot.com/p/James-Hardie-HardieBacker-3-ft-x-5-ft-x-1-2-in-Cement-Backerboard-220023/100170507" target="_blank">1/2" Backer board</a></li><li><a href="http://www.homedepot.com/p/Backer-On-10-x-1-5-8-in-Zinc-Plated-Steel-Flat-Head-Square-Cement-Board-Screws-150-Pack-23410/100174717" target="_blank">Backer board screws</a></li><li><a href="http://www.homedepot.com/p/Custom-Building-Products-AcrylPro-3-1-2-gal-Ceramic-Tile-Adhesive-ARL40003/100112798" target="_blank">Tile adhesive</a></li><li>Tile cutter - borrowed </li><li><a href="http://www.homedepot.com/p/HDX-3-16-in-x-5-32-in-V-Notch-Economy-Trowel-10115X/203713857" target="_blank">Trowel</a></li><li><a href="http://www.homedepot.com/p/MS-International-Mystic-Cloud-Arched-Herringbone-12-in-x-12-in-x-10-mm-Honed-Marble-Mesh-Mounted-Mosaic-Wall-Tile-ARCH-MC-HBH/205337446" target="_blank">Tile</a></li><li>PVC pipe</li><li><a href="http://www.homedepot.com/p/CE-TECH-Full-Motion-Wall-Mount-for-26-in-90-in-Flat-Panel-TVs-31903/205597130" target="_blank">Television mount </a></li><li>Painter's caulk</li><li>Primer</li><li>Paint</li><li>Rollers, brushes, trays</li><li><a href="http://www.homedepot.com/p/Prime-Line-25-lb-5-mm-Nickel-Plated-Steel-Shelf-Support-Pegs-8-Pack-U-10166/100586373" target="_blank">Shelving pegs</a></li></ul><br />Because we wanted the fireplace mantle to be embellished with decorative moulding, the moulding needed a solid surface to return to on either side.  That surface would be the sides of each bookcase, and we ultimately landed on a 3 1/2" wide frame for the bookcase walls (using the poplar 1x4's on the bookcase faces).<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVuTkIJ7nttXDEazvBL11CdauUWkwLh3lwCdTWl7tM85JldJ56A63sYBqhzvBBlgoszAXI0DOJ6xSKMEYbUpwGRS1siU2F8qUi9n55EOHrbyROyutzh8jctg5XhTTzklphOOKKmtSqWlPL/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_51.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVuTkIJ7nttXDEazvBL11CdauUWkwLh3lwCdTWl7tM85JldJ56A63sYBqhzvBBlgoszAXI0DOJ6xSKMEYbUpwGRS1siU2F8qUi9n55EOHrbyROyutzh8jctg5XhTTzklphOOKKmtSqWlPL/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_51.jpg" /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><br />We began by using 2x4's and the 3/4" birch plywood to create a box to surround our previous mirrored glass bookcases.  We pre-measured our components with their cords attached, and determined we needed shelves that were at least 16" deep to hold the electronics.  Once the exterior of the box was built, we added a 1/4" birch plywood backing.  Wood screws were used for building the 2x4 frame while the brad nailer was used to affix the plywood sides and backing.   <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzn5mg0iqpCfTZL-7PQ3iFj_6yyxXQ6tDeIGU5fn1wd0xRKqVjtqV1FcinG5V18uBfw3azSc1PpSNyy-Cma2i7xvuUzpY0dvIQEjj3cWDsEjdayUk5tJmvNk3x8la9bpIWFs5cVKXsfNP7/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_3.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzn5mg0iqpCfTZL-7PQ3iFj_6yyxXQ6tDeIGU5fn1wd0xRKqVjtqV1FcinG5V18uBfw3azSc1PpSNyy-Cma2i7xvuUzpY0dvIQEjj3cWDsEjdayUk5tJmvNk3x8la9bpIWFs5cVKXsfNP7/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_3.jpg" /></a></div><br />We had a few shelving options, but I preferred something that offered flexibility vs. affixed permanent shelves.  We simply used pegboard to create a template to drill shelving peg holes.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwJHsPD05hCIm5qkIVhd33_xvnb8rRqZhPn6bXQIC4u1mUHFPY7vI1or4UuFCkhHl_NoYv6uhuZ1PSfxY4GjoMGvGUkuS2H2a88hHDxzIiEP11x5ZPsmFnoUtcOQtwYrlXI9P_LR517EfQ/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_52.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhwJHsPD05hCIm5qkIVhd33_xvnb8rRqZhPn6bXQIC4u1mUHFPY7vI1or4UuFCkhHl_NoYv6uhuZ1PSfxY4GjoMGvGUkuS2H2a88hHDxzIiEP11x5ZPsmFnoUtcOQtwYrlXI9P_LR517EfQ/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_52.jpg" /></a></div><br />We were able to time the building of this unit with our electrician, and he was on-site running the wires for the outlets, fireplace and television as we constructed the unit.  He was able to have our outlets moved to provide electrical for lighting and electronics in our bookcases.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggZdMJKwFL6g-LbjaKtayk5mq2s009ROu_ngSIjInvi9mzb69u0KRB3YOtC6aWQD5FVe0TAU2SPe1_HgSbOPsT0w587D9k-M5Gfp5klJW7qp1WiIr182pn8SqGjmnsIK6Agl9oM5fqNOWq/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_5.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEggZdMJKwFL6g-LbjaKtayk5mq2s009ROu_ngSIjInvi9mzb69u0KRB3YOtC6aWQD5FVe0TAU2SPe1_HgSbOPsT0w587D9k-M5Gfp5klJW7qp1WiIr182pn8SqGjmnsIK6Agl9oM5fqNOWq/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_5.jpg" /></a></div><br />The beautiful bookcase frame was finished and we held our breath as we inserted the previous glass-doored unit.  Wahoo, it fit like a glove!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguyn0Csz_j66SQJRPypRiF7p4wjWIU9VUEmUlQ1lYRZ9OhLj5iRnRIuQtE3wrY2PsocrXWvSHQGnh5t0yf6TA8vEBS4-kELmoWvh9b7A0Y8tzqLJVUuuyp6S3K2xz_x3m4s5fkz3v1Haak/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_6.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEguyn0Csz_j66SQJRPypRiF7p4wjWIU9VUEmUlQ1lYRZ9OhLj5iRnRIuQtE3wrY2PsocrXWvSHQGnh5t0yf6TA8vEBS4-kELmoWvh9b7A0Y8tzqLJVUuuyp6S3K2xz_x3m4s5fkz3v1Haak/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_6.jpg" /></a></div><br />Once the first bookcase was built, we used the measurements provided to us by the fireplace company to construct the fireplace surround from more 2x4's.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBjHCqLws0dTvTDLuMSuhUk1wNaah5pIhHv23BTTkRRusHWI3wIMPodzCswsf-aYd1I3fPs5SdPuLU9MePiqaZTMKPPllvXMlSX8Hu-MhOWO21HxpxtS9AWEJoeHFPi3u4Vht5NrmyYhUy/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_8.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhBjHCqLws0dTvTDLuMSuhUk1wNaah5pIhHv23BTTkRRusHWI3wIMPodzCswsf-aYd1I3fPs5SdPuLU9MePiqaZTMKPPllvXMlSX8Hu-MhOWO21HxpxtS9AWEJoeHFPi3u4Vht5NrmyYhUy/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_8.jpg" /></a></div><br />Speaking of fireplace, prior to ordering, we asked 1,265 questions.  Here are some questions we asked that we found extremely helpful come build day:<br /><ul><li>Can the fireplace be set on flooring and if so, what types are OK? <i>(The answer for our model was yes, it could be placed directly on our laminate floors)</i></li><li>What are the model's surround requirements? <i>(Tile recommended)</i></li><li>What are the model's overall installation dimensions? <i>(We were provided the installation specs by the fireplace company)</i></li><li>How/where does the fireplace vent? <i>(The fireplace was vented directly out to our garage and then piped up and out through the roof, which prevented the need to have the piping run directly up the wall behind the television inside of our home)</i></li><li>What type of clearance is recommended for a television above? <i>(Recommended to<span id="bc_0_37b+seedVtfsD" kind="d"> add a minimum of a 2" lip/mantle past the face of the fireplace to displace the heat.)</span></i></li></ul><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiijiDXfwHWj_rerOpW3JnXwQO7LG1FbhcjOAzWjzhuZfBz33J1AQsPj-r5AfuqZU7YRu1jfN6LZ5ojrp35poLPFfNJUzd06XeJ1b_2-W7v1yOR0R9N9iW5N86UxtSUdwRtJTdpneAj9O3Q/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_53.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiijiDXfwHWj_rerOpW3JnXwQO7LG1FbhcjOAzWjzhuZfBz33J1AQsPj-r5AfuqZU7YRu1jfN6LZ5ojrp35poLPFfNJUzd06XeJ1b_2-W7v1yOR0R9N9iW5N86UxtSUdwRtJTdpneAj9O3Q/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_53.jpg" /></a></div><br />As I mentioned, I really didn't want to see component cords.  I find them to be visually distracting and was ultimately trying to achieve a nice and clean look.  Not wanting to do anything permanent that we wouldn't be able to access once everything was built-in, Bryan came up with the solution to add a PVC tunnel to run all of the cords between the television and components.  That way, should we swap out a DVD player or need to replace our Dish receiver, we can do so without any difficulties.  Electrical, Internet and cable was run by our electrician to a location behind the television and eventually boxed into the built-in, while the PVC pipe was installed to run between the TV and side bookcase cabinet.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6TECPn4tTY36VFB_SNCr3JWnrcVePWfqaetVXDJeV4dynNbpapBIcybpWQfJ8m8tbh4wUG5wEalm2orfrKxnpNNzGGyxvZwo48LQWzam0S-UeSr3xlsPRktgmHoWHfNuijpDCF_cSkPQL/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_12.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg6TECPn4tTY36VFB_SNCr3JWnrcVePWfqaetVXDJeV4dynNbpapBIcybpWQfJ8m8tbh4wUG5wEalm2orfrKxnpNNzGGyxvZwo48LQWzam0S-UeSr3xlsPRktgmHoWHfNuijpDCF_cSkPQL/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_12.jpg" /></a></div><br />And this is where we were at the end of our first weekend of building.  We needed to have our building inspector check on the electrical and gas updates Monday morning, prior to the fireplace insert installation (which was also scheduled on Monday).<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrQLppOkeFP2LC0SXBby6kcHQoaOo7lkT9J8sCAiPKvlzgzrYg0hGFgSsXvr2J9eSlsfrCiJmcsv4ssz-PQblMuX1g1zmbbs6qUeEgzwEEhyAeyTBgHqkYRmI_zFMrT4Q4uEF1nscJQFfa/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_17.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgrQLppOkeFP2LC0SXBby6kcHQoaOo7lkT9J8sCAiPKvlzgzrYg0hGFgSsXvr2J9eSlsfrCiJmcsv4ssz-PQblMuX1g1zmbbs6qUeEgzwEEhyAeyTBgHqkYRmI_zFMrT4Q4uEF1nscJQFfa/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_17.jpg" /></a></div><br />We didn't install the fireplace, we hired that part out (we went with <a href="http://www.comfortbydesign.net/" target="_blank">Comfort By Design</a> for this).  Once again, we sighed with relief when everything fit like a glove.  Above, you can also see how the television boxes were placed and everything was concealed by another piece of the 3/4" birch plywood.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihZ4bxVvap_z1Ra9qbu1JTewDA9VDZrKwBtNOrr2Uj2HjYHmDtjjef42lyB9nkLs-6g_roKA746zkPXpHqKjczPnnm2U0r3sLCwM6tN0GspT7wblZlrwGjUZCvcE6lgTVyCL4jOGqS4HyF/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_14.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEihZ4bxVvap_z1Ra9qbu1JTewDA9VDZrKwBtNOrr2Uj2HjYHmDtjjef42lyB9nkLs-6g_roKA746zkPXpHqKjczPnnm2U0r3sLCwM6tN0GspT7wblZlrwGjUZCvcE6lgTVyCL4jOGqS4HyF/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_14.jpg" /></a></div><br />For the crown moulding, we used IKEA moulding on the outer cabinets and primed moulding from Home Depot for the center unit.  The outer bookcases were built to the exact height as the cabinets in the kitchen, which will also be moulded with the IKEA trim.  This was one of the ways we began creating cohesion between the kitchen and living spaces.<br /><br />We also added small stripes of trim to the faces of the 3/4" plywood shelves.  Wood glue and brad nailer for the win.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKXyEXMlqmctqLRJYxlmj1Nbx0_Cym42ti3U3f-w53a1hAEjQVzV75K7FEJ3wkRYinb7yHTbRWqrmVv7ZcJCjzmqoPRCS-Oof417MCEHw-DOcTRzP4RCmTLduRd6_2K2HH7MFcl9FhCYKF/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_54.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhKXyEXMlqmctqLRJYxlmj1Nbx0_Cym42ti3U3f-w53a1hAEjQVzV75K7FEJ3wkRYinb7yHTbRWqrmVv7ZcJCjzmqoPRCS-Oof417MCEHw-DOcTRzP4RCmTLduRd6_2K2HH7MFcl9FhCYKF/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_54.jpg" /></a></div><br />Now that the fireplace was installed and the moulding, shelves and built-in were complete, we were able to start tiling the fireplace surround.<br /><br />To prep the fireplace for tile, we purchased cement backer board.  The board cut like drywall, scored with a utility knife.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsmFurT00JSmfAHwUrSisZ2Z0I-D-B5bhKuHt-aihMzYYUu6t68XSIuO76Ic0Wqb3LpRZbf2d88LMz-B-WHfVXEPjCnLshCBh-XO-ninOZ2OcBXd5GobyTeHHlvGyRFY3co2VVBmEwSR_X/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_19.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjsmFurT00JSmfAHwUrSisZ2Z0I-D-B5bhKuHt-aihMzYYUu6t68XSIuO76Ic0Wqb3LpRZbf2d88LMz-B-WHfVXEPjCnLshCBh-XO-ninOZ2OcBXd5GobyTeHHlvGyRFY3co2VVBmEwSR_X/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_19.jpg" /></a></div><br />To affix the boards to the 2x4 framing, we used special backer board screws.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcOuZxls6sGcgWBgjn6Tz8ny7wGPAh6bV9liKjOsTwUERF51Kq8l67CSpZMsM2hf0V4bH7JU7PMfHB6EOYhLdlkzAPj6m7S3GVtx0PjUFyKuFPS6rdRdo3jFdHrB9S9Efa7Ec5QUEkkg5M/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_55.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcOuZxls6sGcgWBgjn6Tz8ny7wGPAh6bV9liKjOsTwUERF51Kq8l67CSpZMsM2hf0V4bH7JU7PMfHB6EOYhLdlkzAPj6m7S3GVtx0PjUFyKuFPS6rdRdo3jFdHrB9S9Efa7Ec5QUEkkg5M/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_55.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGn94be6PgnSzA2u-BBo0QeJYR6NKZjD_95rgVnBLz1OdN2w2IyGj4lvoHnRNH8haU90dDn8jvoFDEUicVRGgG-gvmwYyYUGz-izZskN8CNuXdRqZ6Q3DZwOmSaLIO3hZLAHzKy8JGiIlU/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_23.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjGn94be6PgnSzA2u-BBo0QeJYR6NKZjD_95rgVnBLz1OdN2w2IyGj4lvoHnRNH8haU90dDn8jvoFDEUicVRGgG-gvmwYyYUGz-izZskN8CNuXdRqZ6Q3DZwOmSaLIO3hZLAHzKy8JGiIlU/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_23.jpg" /></a></div><br />I originally had selected a herringbone marble from The Tile Shop, but when we were walking the aisles at Home Depot, I spotted a herringbone tile like nothing I had seen before.  It offered a basketweave-like texture, which I loved because it almost looked more like a stone than a polished marble.  We were able to borrow a friend's tile saw, and it cut like butta!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLqE1WknZ1covDVIaJW5e-ywUasxXkJTJVLh-z9qb5nummQIYBlLpjk7_um8W4OvTv4hT0HMJOiD0ghEJrjdDm0EfpQevlmuQdGwGW92xV34U7LYRZ3pcPD8R13qvHuzopKWpCxhQXmmsR/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_20.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiLqE1WknZ1covDVIaJW5e-ywUasxXkJTJVLh-z9qb5nummQIYBlLpjk7_um8W4OvTv4hT0HMJOiD0ghEJrjdDm0EfpQevlmuQdGwGW92xV34U7LYRZ3pcPD8R13qvHuzopKWpCxhQXmmsR/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_20.jpg" /></a></div><br />We drew out a template of the fireplace on a board to utilize while measuring and cutting each sheet of the tile.  This allowed us to be sure that everything was going to line up and install without issues once we began spreading the adhesive.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5TOV6mhKECtqe_7gAU7bEYzoi-llOinAvggNwNmXRTAUpM2OfVghI3f-H-_CgvVsQaf64k6xx4yXTQCR6Cqk4lJ3NfZs1s3Iq9Zn-Q-Jfy61aLzhGCCbo-_aWjjLO_oCg3o9kam68rlax/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_24.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi5TOV6mhKECtqe_7gAU7bEYzoi-llOinAvggNwNmXRTAUpM2OfVghI3f-H-_CgvVsQaf64k6xx4yXTQCR6Cqk4lJ3NfZs1s3Iq9Zn-Q-Jfy61aLzhGCCbo-_aWjjLO_oCg3o9kam68rlax/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_24.jpg" /></a></div><br />To affix the tile, we went with a tile adhesive which we spread on the backer board with a fine tooth trowel.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0MsYo5S5cHdhKUjkouqP-XV81_cPzGJkx6yoInlnQvdeksKehDjUiRle_N2gLh4W_7hqsqCiiJHwRPWrhK8Haf4YNUpXF4CoDcoDZBEKWp76NvIrfXwat9dhr5aZgTjZVKgXAGOpa7ar6/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_56.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh0MsYo5S5cHdhKUjkouqP-XV81_cPzGJkx6yoInlnQvdeksKehDjUiRle_N2gLh4W_7hqsqCiiJHwRPWrhK8Haf4YNUpXF4CoDcoDZBEKWp76NvIrfXwat9dhr5aZgTjZVKgXAGOpa7ar6/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_56.jpg" /></a></div><br />We followed the directions on the container and worked our way around the fireplace accordingly.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEl_aKcGIgHinMkAgGHOroM4vFD6qPotHruAH5DAxj82oINcCgJK3PshH0lBvLrcnpNYIjqQ51FA3oQU9-RWWpbkCdBdzfzsU9COFHt3ES2wHi5dBFOna5ikZyV7xU28wwa3ggCugTMubZ/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_28.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEl_aKcGIgHinMkAgGHOroM4vFD6qPotHruAH5DAxj82oINcCgJK3PshH0lBvLrcnpNYIjqQ51FA3oQU9-RWWpbkCdBdzfzsU9COFHt3ES2wHi5dBFOna5ikZyV7xU28wwa3ggCugTMubZ/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_28.jpg" /></a></div><br />After all of the tile is set, we recommend holding it in place with painter's tape or masking tape to prevent any shifting while it dries.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEkVEkggKrnb1uUQx1oP9CIF6Q9EttDXNFq_lWcpOlz5CqlcnlKIHAuOfr2dlTTP3rSVv1HspHhfyFhvqwf1KXHjknobjeTI35KN5hXLGs38DlmifmUvWE7r64j3FBqlXLq1EQX8igejw1/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_29.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjEkVEkggKrnb1uUQx1oP9CIF6Q9EttDXNFq_lWcpOlz5CqlcnlKIHAuOfr2dlTTP3rSVv1HspHhfyFhvqwf1KXHjknobjeTI35KN5hXLGs38DlmifmUvWE7r64j3FBqlXLq1EQX8igejw1/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_29.jpg" /></a></div><br />For now, we have not grouted this tile because it is so tightly woven and the texture would make it nearly impossible.  In fact, Home Depot told us not to use grout, however, we are still looking into that because we have never not grouted a tile project before (and we can add grout at any point in time).  Once we decide, we will also add a sealer to the tile as well.<br /><br />After the tile was set and cured, we began constructing the mantle.  The mantle was another piece of the 3/4" plywood paired with the decorative crown moulding.  We also finished adding 3/4" boards to the perimeter of the tile.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJrS1roUK77-pgirusRmx9JvZay1WB0k4bOcMOkVv58gFNwLAewqK8Rm5tMISpH_1-B4E3BsPVWbjp68QL61lH3z3aQLisMJFWviLy5pa8INZrt5dAfSMxHH8K86XjM2jvvSOqFCLGfnV5/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_31.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJrS1roUK77-pgirusRmx9JvZay1WB0k4bOcMOkVv58gFNwLAewqK8Rm5tMISpH_1-B4E3BsPVWbjp68QL61lH3z3aQLisMJFWviLy5pa8INZrt5dAfSMxHH8K86XjM2jvvSOqFCLGfnV5/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_31.jpg" /></a></div><br />The lattice strips were cut and affixed to the surround and upper TV portion to add a decorative embellishment (based on my diagram above - I forgot to photograph this simple step).<br /><br />We also added some iron-on edging to the cut edge of the mantle as well as the top moulded cap, and proceeded to fill in every last nail hole and gap with painter's caulk for a seamless look.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV7D6eMKnWsW8Llm4HfeRz8IIo7n0VHy_-z3R469xHgWD3F48pSCkm-OV-mTV2F8u9iEeZKDODaDFf4pcmbtYhOOq0xRBU6OCN8qexH31RNBtuFqqGUAAviyP8k2MR3mDV-nReZvHodtZ7/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_32.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjV7D6eMKnWsW8Llm4HfeRz8IIo7n0VHy_-z3R469xHgWD3F48pSCkm-OV-mTV2F8u9iEeZKDODaDFf4pcmbtYhOOq0xRBU6OCN8qexH31RNBtuFqqGUAAviyP8k2MR3mDV-nReZvHodtZ7/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_32.jpg" /></a></div><br />When it came time to paint, I used <a href="https://www.rustoleum.com/product-catalog/consumer-brands/zinsser/primer-sealers/smart-prime/" target="_blank">Zinsser Smart Prime</a> paired with Benjamin Moore Advanced Paint in Simply White Satin.  I was really happy with the quality and finish of both.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNfZd9gABOovdWQ6YQs-JBbGfnu5sFhftC9i4pz-s067HdlJ5o6YFWsOFJyfub7ry3oAp2HMCG6hVOWiXExDa5lJd3etCGBg2Y2HwKEWKZqpTpWlOzi88OWuyReVfcINHzRgFmTRiIPb8G/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_49.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhNfZd9gABOovdWQ6YQs-JBbGfnu5sFhftC9i4pz-s067HdlJ5o6YFWsOFJyfub7ry3oAp2HMCG6hVOWiXExDa5lJd3etCGBg2Y2HwKEWKZqpTpWlOzi88OWuyReVfcINHzRgFmTRiIPb8G/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_49.jpg" /></a></div><br />I used a microfiber roller on all of the flat surfaces, and <a href="http://www.homedepot.com/p/Wooster-Shortcut-2-in-Nylon-Polyester-Angle-Sash-Brush-0Q32110020/100357411" target="_blank">my favorite brush</a> for all of the cracks and corners.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVd8ZEqkEthKO3rB-nKtlOiR2rRt9viKEfBwwh5AfpugMMw7ZBW2tdD63pYaL63Nc3CX1-bh10021-OEcqUumPXKQBIxm8iBIIT1BDNamAlKscZ28XusgpM5uwhiCNJ_8JC4nypNJi-Md1/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_33.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiVd8ZEqkEthKO3rB-nKtlOiR2rRt9viKEfBwwh5AfpugMMw7ZBW2tdD63pYaL63Nc3CX1-bh10021-OEcqUumPXKQBIxm8iBIIT1BDNamAlKscZ28XusgpM5uwhiCNJ_8JC4nypNJi-Md1/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_33.jpg" /></a></div><br />One coat of primer and two coats later, it was already looking good!  The paint really cleaned up the entire build and made it feel like one meant-to-be unit.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGPc9CV5UEM6FBqiXiUcqEjocwhZhkPBIPwdEnxUrXsw9aKJ7WB2ALENnE88uIS_icROPTl3luQma0QFwI9LKALiEOrgSkhHWEZwucqm9mDCJ3c2cdy8Eut-QG3RTIY4mUNf23AXXiQk3Q/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_34.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiGPc9CV5UEM6FBqiXiUcqEjocwhZhkPBIPwdEnxUrXsw9aKJ7WB2ALENnE88uIS_icROPTl3luQma0QFwI9LKALiEOrgSkhHWEZwucqm9mDCJ3c2cdy8Eut-QG3RTIY4mUNf23AXXiQk3Q/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_34.jpg" /></a></div><br />I ended up doing one more coat before pulling the tape and celebrating!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3Ef0BwdYEwlfMgw4JP0k6be6YHHYUH3JB6pC8p7gqi2OnNWuqtq9s1POgE1sUxwBIw6yWOqHN1Rc7qpzL17CHc2ofDlKHvMXA4_YiE_WyWtVzkMbffw2BSlQ2smxgkYObzepgKDoRinfe/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_45.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg3Ef0BwdYEwlfMgw4JP0k6be6YHHYUH3JB6pC8p7gqi2OnNWuqtq9s1POgE1sUxwBIw6yWOqHN1Rc7qpzL17CHc2ofDlKHvMXA4_YiE_WyWtVzkMbffw2BSlQ2smxgkYObzepgKDoRinfe/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_45.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQUtlSz2esaWp9aoCJZEY1FqpNvlrej4pmLSHLVhjOMv1q_NTPTJDOXEn0Tvn_h6EY8rBaqA4bsMjv3l-bboTY9sF5nls55z0l9gx5tQeG8Gx0rvrhZzissM7tAsJjOLIF_O-S7YBVf8Ry/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_48.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiQUtlSz2esaWp9aoCJZEY1FqpNvlrej4pmLSHLVhjOMv1q_NTPTJDOXEn0Tvn_h6EY8rBaqA4bsMjv3l-bboTY9sF5nls55z0l9gx5tQeG8Gx0rvrhZzissM7tAsJjOLIF_O-S7YBVf8Ry/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_48.jpg" /></a></div><br />The TV mount offers both tilt and swivel features, allowing us to pull it out and face it wherever we would like.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEyX8elkBJSpRYjFV5T_tVvRwJ6D1COh_nYSpSqFeJ9Hl633l9_2SLBxsfncyOxC54BJl10B2q7eyddS4akj1fLz7Nei6KcEkeKdrUTR24O7l47Fpf6QsHBzSDW99jLts51Giz-blRt8sF/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_57.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhEyX8elkBJSpRYjFV5T_tVvRwJ6D1COh_nYSpSqFeJ9Hl633l9_2SLBxsfncyOxC54BJl10B2q7eyddS4akj1fLz7Nei6KcEkeKdrUTR24O7l47Fpf6QsHBzSDW99jLts51Giz-blRt8sF/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_57.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk3YZz3ibr54CUG-aVc4nY8c7o_OnzZdLYyl-z_6xk3yVYTAKx4WFsxVoxOJzhyefh5WC0fi5TOCdNAb6uio7MHwhhhZ9CYLKqn9LmmKc1asJPQU0TBx3NHjtBWeiErM-zsY2EsoveFF6m/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_44.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjk3YZz3ibr54CUG-aVc4nY8c7o_OnzZdLYyl-z_6xk3yVYTAKx4WFsxVoxOJzhyefh5WC0fi5TOCdNAb6uio7MHwhhhZ9CYLKqn9LmmKc1asJPQU0TBx3NHjtBWeiErM-zsY2EsoveFF6m/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_44.jpg" /></a></div><br />We started off with a variety of shelving pegs that we found in our tool box, however, I ended up purchasing some smaller pegs that were less visually distracting.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkbRL3lYamIUgyqE0Nk9LRljLIamr4oHfoP3vRvjxI3TUC-rM2tsoJU5yORjTrMEJNVv1Cva4UtDGD-VpYUgXz_rVg6ltLOu-tLs_cQxI4Mq1O8xLgVVp3Bkk9zxBG0feai-j0EIyCRxah/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_50.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkbRL3lYamIUgyqE0Nk9LRljLIamr4oHfoP3vRvjxI3TUC-rM2tsoJU5yORjTrMEJNVv1Cva4UtDGD-VpYUgXz_rVg6ltLOu-tLs_cQxI4Mq1O8xLgVVp3Bkk9zxBG0feai-j0EIyCRxah/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_50.jpg" /></a></div><br />We eventually plan to create a "faux" panel that I can add to the backs of the bookcases when the painting or wallpapering mood strikes.  That way I can change things up without doing anything permanent I may regret down the road.  We also hope to add decorative lighting to the tops, and the outlets added to each side will come in handy when that day comes as well.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzxYrbnszWagGx8_AyYQ_iXY56Gx4ch31vbFypD2OKb78KdbdwMaEixzzzi45nxznfHkqwXpbvZBPy-PG3AVO9R5f8ba9P2blVXheSeppStwrCcc9HoFq8iVMjq5TR8cTmcPUeUKePCBgc/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_38.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgzxYrbnszWagGx8_AyYQ_iXY56Gx4ch31vbFypD2OKb78KdbdwMaEixzzzi45nxznfHkqwXpbvZBPy-PG3AVO9R5f8ba9P2blVXheSeppStwrCcc9HoFq8iVMjq5TR8cTmcPUeUKePCBgc/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_38.jpg" /></a></div><br />I am so in love with the tile and all of the moulding and trim details.  The final result is definitely a functional moment-maker!<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzAhpyVLaERCgFNLQ2YDqJojkHFyxM4s3taMg0LXCuvfDkXrttluDdnhA2cq3kGoWvYFtHPw4JvjKuXppnD_SEEDuxYMkO0Mb_AGj_RT6X_fDu_PmJZWWyFCFqtrMvDvNvOjkuvSzsnYtn/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_42.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjzAhpyVLaERCgFNLQ2YDqJojkHFyxM4s3taMg0LXCuvfDkXrttluDdnhA2cq3kGoWvYFtHPw4JvjKuXppnD_SEEDuxYMkO0Mb_AGj_RT6X_fDu_PmJZWWyFCFqtrMvDvNvOjkuvSzsnYtn/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_42.jpg" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNab-y5Z3YPFqBnKCEiLZkrkxY68IsFqv4Ms1MrgnR_jRztuMvsqpqMgDoCP3QHhGfxS4Sh64d9qQuh-h-14WX1wTaTDrwzEf4X3ylOa0qxlQ1y8sgBZuERBMJOqlNPi2YUEU6IEUc4LrB/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_41.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgNab-y5Z3YPFqBnKCEiLZkrkxY68IsFqv4Ms1MrgnR_jRztuMvsqpqMgDoCP3QHhGfxS4Sh64d9qQuh-h-14WX1wTaTDrwzEf4X3ylOa0qxlQ1y8sgBZuERBMJOqlNPi2YUEU6IEUc4LrB/s1600/DIY_Fireplace_TV_Mantle_Built-ins_41.jpg" /></a></div><br />Most of this project was far from pretty and I had multiple moments throughout the construction process where I wondered if it would all come together as envisioned.  But it did!  In fact, it exceeded our expectations and we are happy we were able to achieve all of the goals and finally check off a big home wish list item.  Just in time for the hot summer, <i>ha!</i><br /><br />

DIY Fireplace Built-In Tutorial

Today I am giving a warm welcome to Monday.  We took the weekend to focus on family fun activities and hosting some friends and family.  It ...

Read more »