Hand Carved Fireplace

Fireplace Mantels? Where to Start?

Getting Started With Fireplace Mantels

There is so much involved in putting a fireplace in your home it can be a huge undertaking. As I mentioned there are so many different styles and designs and even materials that you have to consider when putting a fireplace in your home.  If you are working with an interior designer they will be able to guide you in the right direction as far as which style goes best with the rest of the decor in the home.  Fireplace mantels are not cheap and they easily become the centerpeice to your room, so you're going to want to get it right.

There are many, many, many different fireplace suppliers out there today. It has become a huge market. They will tell you its authentic when its not. They will try to tell you it's marble when it's actually a marble resin, which is essentially marble dust mixed in adhesives.  I will try to break it down in a way where you can make a very educated choice when dealing with your interior designer and fireplace suppliers.

Design and Authenticity

You first have to browse and discuss the different style of fireplace mantels. There are many, many different styles depending ont he time period it was designed and the geographic location. For the most art during the 1400's and 1500's the French Louis the XIV style will be the most popular. But there were some very charming French and English countryside fireplace mantels that can also be very handsome designs. Many suppliers of fireplace mantels do not have an understanding of the classic architecture or styles of fireplace mantels. The proportions of the mantel to the legs can be all wrong because they just aren't educated in the historical architecture that comes with a very fine fireplace.

Cast Stone Mantels

Cast mantels are usually cost less than a natural stone fireplace mantel. Basically they are pouring the marble dust/resin mixture into a mold that will harden and presto out comes the pieces of the fireplace mantel.  If you find a good company their designs will stay true to the authentic and classic design that fireplace mantels originated from.  Because they are cast the fireplace has to be modeled and sculpted by that company. There may be comapanies out there that have taken molds from original authentic fireplace mantels and used those molds to then cast a fake resin mantel just like the authentic natural stone mantel.  These mantels are good for a cheaper budget and like I said if you find a good company that knows more about the authentic architecture of a mantel.  The problems with cast fireplaces are they are synthetic and made of adhesives. If you are someone concerned about air quality and VOC's these cast mantels may not be the best option.

Natural Stone Mantels

Natural stone mantels are of course going to be more money because they have to be carved or finished by hand. Although there are some amazing CNC machines out there today that can produce these mantels they will still have to be finished off by hand. Also the cost of the natural stone is also included in the price. But natural stone is usually the most beautiful and rich material you could probably use for a fireplace mantel. Many people these days are getting natural stone countertops and floors because of the beautiful quality of stone. Same goes for fireplace mantels, they are of much more quality and style simply because they are natural. To find suppliers of natural stone fireplace mantels you will have to do a little more investigation probably. There are stone fabricators that will make them but they may not design them. The fabricators usually use architectural plans and drawings to fabricate the stone mantels. Some stone fabricators may have a designer on hand but you will have to ask each company individually. There are craftsman that still design and carve fireplace mantels, they usually work hand in hand with the fabricators. DMS Studios is a very knowledgeable craftsman studio that specializes in fireplace mantel design and fabrication.

Imported Marble Fireplace Mantels

There are a lot of Chinese marble fountains and fireplace mantel companies out there now. If you do a search online for fireplace mantels I am sure you will find them. They will give you a very good deal on a natural stone fireplace mantel because it doesn't cost them anything to fabricate them. There are machines that excavate the stone from the ground so the material itself is fairly cheap.  There is a huge supply of Chinese marble because the industry is fairly new and has only been developed the last 10 years. The hand carving is also done in China and can be done at very low cost so they are able to sell natural stone, hand carved mantels at a very low rate.  The only problem with the Chinese mantel fabrication is, again their designers are not as educated in the classic architecture that very fine fireplace mantels originated from.

About the Author

William Dinsio
Professional Stone Sculptor, Artist, and Designer. In the industry for 6+ years. Passionate about classical architecture, modern design projects, sculpture, and all design trades. Works at DMS Studios Ltd.

21011-420-072 Linell Fireplace $3360 The Ambella Home Linell Fireplace Surround 21011-420-072 This solid wood hand crafted and hand finished fireplace surround features exquisite hand carved embellishments This surround features a stone top and luscious curved sides

Uniflame C6162 19 INCH OVERSIZED HAND CARVED BELLOW $59.8 Blond hand carved wood constructed against black leather completes this handsome bellow. Dependable and beautiful this piece will be a welcome addition to your fireplace tools.

UniFlame 19 Inch Oversized Hand Carved Bellow $48.95 This UniFlame Bellow is hand carved. Fireplace bellows are both decorative and useful. Bellows draw in air through an opening in the bottom and expel it through the nozzle, eliminating the need to blow directly on the fire. UniFlame fireplace accessories are designed to keep your hearth safe and clean, while adding a fresh and attractive design aesthetic to your fireplace. Constructed of high-quality materials, UniFlame hearth products are available in a variety of styles and finishes to compliment any home decor. UniFlame fireplace accessories are designed to keep your hearth safe and clean, while adding a fresh and attractive design aesthetic to your fireplace. Constructed of high-quality materials, UniFlame hearth products are available in a variety of styles and finishes to compliment any home decor.

UniFlame 21 Inch Hand Carved Bellow $52.95 This UniFlame Bellow is hand carved. Fireplace bellows are both decorative and useful. Bellows draw in air through an opening in the bottom and expel it through the nozzle, eliminating the need to blow directly on the fire. UniFlame fireplace accessories are designed to keep your hearth safe and clean, while adding a fresh and attractive design aesthetic to your fireplace. Constructed of high-quality materials, UniFlame hearth products are available in a variety of styles and finishes to compliment any home decor. UniFlame fireplace accessories are designed to keep your hearth safe and clean, while adding a fresh and attractive design aesthetic to your fireplace. Constructed of high-quality materials, UniFlame hearth products are available in a variety of styles and finishes to compliment any home decor.

21-Inch Hand Carved Bellow $67 21-Inch Hand Carved Bellow

Uniflame C6717 HAND CARVED BELLOW DARK STAINED 17 1/2 INCH L $47.45 Gorgeous hand carved detail adds character to this functional fireplace piece. Use well and display it proudly for generations to come.

Vishesh CEFP813 Valence Fireplace Surround $1815.75 One of the most Popular fireplace of SHUBH the Valence is inspired by the Louis XV Firesurrounds. Softly curved interior surrounded by elegant curls. The fireplace is hand carved by master craftsmen in Sandstone. Available in Beige and White Colors.

Woodeze 5UC6146 20apos;apos; Hand Carved Bellows with Cast Nozzle $60.32 A fireplace bellows is perfect for adding decorative accent to your hearth area as well as being a must have practical hearth accessory. This fireplace bellows will provide a burst of air to help get your fire started in no time at all It s hand carved from pine with a cast brass nozzle and synthetic vinyl bellow. No woodburning fireplace or woodstove is complete with out this handy fireplace accessory. Size: 20 Long. Construction materials: Pine with Brass Nozzle. Synthetic Vinyl Bellow.

Uniflame C6145 HAND CARVED BELLOW CAST NOZZLE 16 INCH LONG $55.9 Golden honey finished wood communicates the quality of this hand carved bellow. Its solid construction will prove reliable when rejuvenating a dying fire. Combining texture and design this is a wonderful gift for any home with a fireplace and without a bellow. This fireplace bellow features solid wood a cast solid brass nozzle and brass pins. Features: Hand Carved Bellow Cast Nozzle 16amp;quot; Long x 16amp;quot; High x 6.5amp;quot; Wide

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Uniflame C6146 HAND CARVED BELLOW CAST NOZZLE 20 INCHLONG $70.07 UniFlame Corporation manufactures a wide variety of high quality fireplace furnishings. UniFlame features products such as fireplace screens fireplace tool sets log racks woodbaskets firepots match holders and bellows. Uniflame products are built to last made with antique copper polished iron Black wrought iron brushed nickel and other durable materials. You will be able to enjoy your Uniflame accessories for years to come. All of UniFlame s products are practical stylish and affordable. UniFlame C6146 Hand Carved Bellow Cast Nozzle 20 Long. Uniflame fireplace accessories. Emphasizes superior craftsmanship. Its sturdy construction. Ensures that it will last through the years. Dimensions: 20 .

20 Hand Carved Wooden Bellows w/ Cast Nozzle $63.99 A Bellows is an essential tool for anyone with a fireplace or fire pit, and this quality Bellows from UniFlame is one of the best weve found. Designed with an extra-large 20" length, this hand-carved wooden Bellows creates a strong current of air to increase the temperature and intensity of your wood fire. Easy to use, it features quality construction, cast nozzle and loop handle for storage with your fireplace tool set. Measures 20" long x 20" high, weighs 2.5 lbs.

UniFlame 16 Inch Hand Carved Bellow With Cast Nozzle $44.95 This UniFlame Bellow is hand carved with a cast nozzle. Fireplace bellows are both decorative and useful. Bellows draw in air through an opening in the bottom and expel it through the nozzle, eliminating the need to blow directly on the fire. UniFlame fireplace accessories are designed to keep your hearth safe and clean, while adding a fresh and attractive design aesthetic to your fireplace. Constructed of high-quality materials, UniFlame hearth products are available in a variety of styles and finishes to compliment any home decor. UniFlame fireplace accessories are designed to keep your hearth safe and clean, while adding a fresh and attractive design aesthetic to your fireplace. Constructed of high-quality materials, UniFlame hearth products are available in a variety of styles and finishes to compliment any home decor.

UniFlame 17 1/2 Inch Dark Stained Hand Carved Bellow $36.95 This UniFlame Bellow is hand carved. Fireplace bellows are both decorative and useful. Bellows draw in air through an opening in the bottom and expel it through the nozzle, eliminating the need to blow directly on the fire. UniFlame fireplace accessories are designed to keep your hearth safe and clean, while adding a fresh and attractive design aesthetic to your fireplace. Constructed of high-quality materials, UniFlame hearth products are available in a variety of styles and finishes to compliment any home decor. UniFlame fireplace accessories are designed to keep your hearth safe and clean, while adding a fresh and attractive design aesthetic to your fireplace. Constructed of high-quality materials, UniFlame hearth products are available in a variety of styles and finishes to compliment any home decor.

UniFlame 15 Inch Dark Stained Hand Carved Bellow With Medallion $32.95 This UniFlame Bellow is hand carved. Fireplace bellows are both decorative and useful. Bellows draw in air through an opening in the bottom and expel it through the nozzle, eliminating the need to blow directly on the fire. UniFlame fireplace accessories are designed to keep your hearth safe and clean, while adding a fresh and attractive design aesthetic to your fireplace. Constructed of high-quality materials, UniFlame hearth products are available in a variety of styles and finishes to compliment any home decor. UniFlame fireplace accessories are designed to keep your hearth safe and clean, while adding a fresh and attractive design aesthetic to your fireplace. Constructed of high-quality materials, UniFlame hearth products are available in a variety of styles and finishes to compliment any home decor.

UniFlame 25 Inch Dark Stained Hand Carved Bellow With Long Handles $59.95 This UniFlame Bellow is hand carved and features long handles. Fireplace bellows are both decorative and useful. Bellows draw in air through an opening in the bottom and expel it through the nozzle, eliminating the need to blow directly on the fire. UniFlame fireplace accessories are designed to keep your hearth safe and clean, while adding a fresh and attractive design aesthetic to your fireplace. Constructed of high-quality materials, UniFlame hearth products are available in a variety of styles and finishes to compliment any home decor. UniFlame fireplace accessories are designed to keep your hearth safe and clean, while adding a fresh and attractive design aesthetic to your fireplace. Constructed of high-quality materials, UniFlame hearth products are available in a variety of styles and finishes to compliment any home decor.

Square Hand Carved Sunflower Wall Decor $295 -Hand Carved Resinated Wood

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Woodeze 5UC6733 15apos;apos; Pine Fireplace Bellows $37.99 Don t be left short winded after blowing on embers to get a fire going. This fireplace bellows is an easy way to provide a burst of air to help get a roaring fire started in no time at all It s hand carved from pine with a cast brass nozzle and synthetic vinyl bellow. No woodburning fireplace or woodstove is complete with out this handy fireplace accessory. Measures: 6 W x 15 L. Construction materials: Pine mixed with hardwoods and a Brass Nozzle. Synthetic Vinyl Bellow

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Calvert Carved Ivory Electric Fireplace (DS) $749.99 Southern Enterprises, Inc. Carved Electric Fireplace. Crisp is the perfect description for this traditional ivory fireplace. Fluted columns frame the firebox on each side and an elegant floral design across the top of this classic fireplace draws attention. This beautiful mantel is finished off with understated molding that complements the design fabulously. Requiring no electrician or contractor for installation allows instant remodeling without the usual mess or expense. In addition to your living room or bedroom, try moving this fireplace to your dining room for a romantic dinner or compliment you media room with a ventless fireplace below your flat screen television. 44.5" W x 14.5" D x 40.25" Tall; Mantle supports up to 85 lbs. and up to a 47" flat screen TV Firebox front - 23" Wide x 20" Tall Remote Control Plugs into standard wall outlet Tested to heat 1500 cubic feet in only 24 minutes Uses about the same energy as a coffee maker Eco-Friendly No combustion, glass remains cool to the touch Click on Alternate Views to see additional detail. This is a Special Order item shipped directly from the manufacturer and may take up to 10 business days for delivery. This product is available online only. This item requires oversize delivery. Please refer to shipping step at check out for delivery amount.

Woodeze 5UC6173 25apos;apos; Pine Fireplace Bellows $73.15 No woodburning fireplace or woodstove is complete with out this handy fireplace accessory This fireplace bellows is an easy way to provide a burst of air to help get a cozy fire started in no time at all so you don't end up short winded when trying to get your fireplace burning Hand carved from pine with a cast brass nozzle and synthetic vinyl bellows it's a practical accessory that looks great just hanging on your hearth for decorative purposes alone. Size: 25 Long. Construction materials: Pine with Brass Nozzle. Synthetic Vinyl Bellow.

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28WM671-W501 San Marco 28 Electric Fireplace Mantel In Antique Walnut $1199.99 The classic design and hand-carved detailing is sure to add a fine sophisticated touch to any room With no installation necessary and simple remote control operation this electric mantel takes the danger and maintenance out of having a fireplace Make...

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