15 Fake Fireplace Ideas That Are Easy to DIY
Creating a fake fireplace can instantly elevate the aesthetic of your home. Whether you’re in an apartment with no traditional fireplace or just looking for a decorative touch, these DIY fireplace ideas are budget-friendly and simple to create. Below, you’ll discover 15 creative and easy-to-execute fake fireplace ideas that are perfect for any space.
1. Cardboard Box Fireplace
One of the simplest and most cost-effective fake fireplace ideas is to use cardboard boxes. You can construct a charming little fireplace by stacking and shaping cardboard into a fireplace design. Paint it with non-toxic paint for a realistic look. This option is perfect for kids’ rooms or holiday decor.
2. Faux Brick Fireplace
For those seeking a more traditional look, consider a faux brick fireplace. Use a combination of painted cardboard or foam bricks to create the illusion of a classic fireplace. This can be a great weekend project, allowing you to customize the colors to match your decor.
3. Shiplap Faux Fireplace
A shiplap faux fireplace adds a rustic charm to your living room. Simply use shiplap boards to create a mantel and surround. Paint it in a crisp white or a bold color to make it a focal point. This design works beautifully in both modern and farmhouse-style homes.
4. Paper Fireplace
For an incredibly easy option, consider a paper fireplace. Using heavy cardstock or craft paper, cut out shapes of a fireplace. You can even add logs and flames made from colored paper. This is a fantastic craft for children, especially around the holidays.
5. Shelves with a Fireplace Design
Incorporating shelves into your fake fireplace design adds both functionality and style. Build shelves above a faux hearth to display books, candles, or seasonal decor. This clever idea transforms a simple fireplace frame into an attractive focal point.
6. Brick Patterned Wall
Instead of building a full structure, consider a brick-patterned wall. Use peel-and-stick wallpaper with a brick design to create a feature wall behind your fake fireplace. This adds texture without the commitment of real brick.
7. Building a Wooden Frame
Using basic wood materials, construct a simple frame that resembles a fireplace. This is one of the more DIY building oriented fake fireplace ideas. Sand it down and paint or stain it to match your home’s decor.
8. Apartment-Friendly Fake Fireplace
If you’re in an apartment, you might prefer a more apartment-friendly option. A lightweight structure that leans against the wall can create an appealing faux fireplace without taking up too much space. You can even hang holiday lights for added charm.
9. Outdoor Fake Fireplace
An outdoor fake fireplace can be a cozy addition to your patio or backyard. Use stones or bricks to create a structure that holds candles or string lights. This enhances your outdoor ambiance and is perfect for gatherings.
10. Christmas Fake Fireplace
Get festive with a Christmas fake fireplace! Decorate a cardboard fireplace with holiday-themed decorations. You can use faux garlands, stockings, and lights to create a warm holiday atmosphere in your home.
11. Easy Cardboard Christmas Decor
For a fun family project, craft a DIY fake fireplace cardboard setup for Christmas. Cut and assemble cardboard into a fireplace shape, then let the kids decorate it with festive colors, glitter, and decorations.
12. Corner Fireplace Idea
If space is limited, a fake corner fireplace can utilize otherwise unused areas. Build a small triangular structure that fits snugly in a corner. This can also serve as a display space for plants or decorative items.
13. Entertainment Center Fireplace
Transform your entertainment center into a cozy focal point with a fake fireplace. Use a wooden frame to create a faux hearth beneath your TV. This idea adds warmth to your media area while providing additional storage options.
14. Living Room Fake Fireplace
Incorporate a fake fireplace into your living room setup. Build a simple wooden mantel that matches your furniture. This creates an inviting atmosphere, especially when adorned with candles or seasonal decorations.
15. Wooden Plank Fireplace
A wooden plank fireplace offers a natural look. Use reclaimed wood to build a simple rectangular frame. This rustic option complements farmhouse or rustic-style interiors beautifully.
| Fake Fireplace Idea | Materials Needed | Complexity | Cost Estimate |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cardboard Box Fireplace | Cardboard, paint | Easy | Low |
| Faux Brick Fireplace | Cardboard, foam bricks, paint | Moderate | Low to Moderate |
| Shiplap Faux Fireplace | Shiplap boards, nails, paint | Moderate | Moderate |
| Paper Fireplace | Cardstock, scissors, glue | Easy | Low |
| Shelves with Fireplace Design | Wood for shelves, paint | Moderate | Moderate |
| Brick Patterned Wall | Peel-and-stick wallpaper | Easy | Low |
| Building a Wooden Frame | Wood, nails, sandpaper | Moderate | Moderate |
| Apartment-Friendly Fake Fireplace | Lightweight materials | Easy | Low |
| Outdoor Fake Fireplace | Stones, candles, lights | Moderate | Moderate |
| Christmas Fake Fireplace | Cardboard, holiday decorations | Easy | Low |
| Easy Cardboard Christmas Decor | Cardboard, decorations | Easy | Low |
| Corner Fireplace Idea | Wood, nails, paint | Moderate | Moderate |
| Entertainment Center Fireplace | Wood, paint, decorations | Moderate | Moderate |
| Living Room Fake Fireplace | Wood, paint, decorations | Moderate | Moderate |
| Wooden Plank Fireplace | Reclaimed wood, nails, paint | Moderate | Low to Moderate |
Conclusion
Whether you choose to create a cardboard fireplace for the holidays or a wooden mantel for your living room, these fake fireplace ideas offer something for everyone. They can bring warmth, charm, and character to any space, all while being easy and budget-friendly. Get creative and start your DIY project today!