Creating a mantel from cardboard can be a simple and rewarding project, especially when you want a cozy holiday touch without a full renovation.

I recently made one for my living room for hanging stockings and adding a bit of seasonal magic.

Here’s my step-by-step guide to building your own cardboard mantel. Let’s get started!

Step 1: Plan and Measure the Mantel

First things first, I went with a width of 48 inches for the top shelf, a depth of 10 inches, and a height of 40 inches for the side columns. You can adjust them based on where you plan to place yours.

Sketch out the shape on a piece of cardboard and mark each section with a pencil. You’ll need:

• Top Shelf – 48 inches wide and 10 inches deep.
• Side Columns – Two pieces, each 40 inches tall and 8 inches wide.
• Front Panel with Arch – A piece 40 inches high and 30 inches wide, with a semi-circle cutout for the “fireplace” opening.

Step 2: Cut Out the Cardboard Pieces

For the arch in the front panel, draw a semi-circle at the bottom center of the cardboard. This will be the opening of your “fireplace.”

I used a box cutter, and aimed for a 20-inch-wide arch that went up about 15 inches to give a classic mantel look.

Step 3: Assemble the Mantel Structure

You can attach the side columns to the front panel by using a hot glue gun for a quick and strong hold.

Once that’s done, you just add the top shelf on top of the side columns, completing the mantel’s main structure.

Step 4: Paint the Brick Pattern

Once the glue has dried, I went with a classic “brick” look, painting the entire front panel white as a base.

After it dried, I used a ruler and a black marker to draw evenly spaced horizontal and vertical lines, creating a simple brick pattern.

Step 5: Add a Festive Fabric Cover

To give the mantel that cozy, holiday vibe, I draped a plaid table runner over the top shelf. You can use any festive fabric you like.

This fabric adds warmth and texture, making the mantel feel more substantial.

Step 6: Decorate Your Mantel

Now, you can add a few small Christmas trees, some pinecones, and ornaments on top. Then you can use adhesive hooks or even just attach the stockings directly to the cardboard.

For a finishing touch, place some LED candles or small decorative jars inside the “fireplace” opening to mimic the look of a warm glow. T

There you have it - a festive mantel made entirely out of cardboard! This project will be a perfect solution if you don’t have a real fireplace.

Plus, it’s lightweight, so you can move it around if you want. If you want to explore more designs, here're some cardboard mantels I’ve experimented with over the years.