Building a Modern Mantel: Design
See how woodworker Seb Eggert incorporates historical influences, modern design principles, and smart fabrication details to create a one-of-a-kind cherry surround for a custom fireplace.
In this five-part video series, you’ll learn great shop and site tips plus a grab bag of the solid techniques that woodworker Sebastian Eggert has learned during his long experience, including how to cut clean, accurate miters, clamping strategies, an easy finishing method, scribing tools and techniques, and how to make a mantel look as though it grew around the fireplace.
Episode 2: Design
In the late 19th century, the Craftsman and Arts and Crafts styles ushered in a simpler architectural style, one that was characterized by the use of simple profiles, clear finishes over figured wood, and details such as the cloud lift and pegged joint. Seb took his inspiration from this style but combined it with the geometry of a more modern, rectilinear style. In this episode, you’ll learn the elements of Seb’s design, and how he chose the wood that would bring forth his details.
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