DIY plasterboard fireplace: step-by-step manufacturing instructions

Andrey
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Andrey October 27, 2016Specialization: facade finishing, interior finishing, construction of dachas, garages. Experience of an amateur gardener and gardener. We also have experience in repairing cars and motorcycles. Hobbies: playing the guitar and many other things that I don’t have time for :)

Currently, there is a new wave of popularity for such a piece of furniture as a fireplace, which has always been considered a symbol of family hearth and comfort. Of course, apartment residents do not have access to a functioning fireplace for a number of reasons, however, this does not mean that the idea of ​​decorating their home with a portal will have to be abandoned. In this article I will tell you how to make a fireplace from plasterboard with your own hands - step-by-step instructions are presented below.

Decorative fireplace made of plasterboard

Various shapes and designs

False fireplaces can be of different geometries and different designs, from simple (made of plasterboard) to individual (made of brickwork).
Today, you can easily purchase ready-made fireplace portals, since their production has long been mass-produced, but you can easily make a false fireplace yourself. In addition, the manufacturing and installation features of such “apartment” fireplaces allow them to be installed in an already built and/or renovated room, and the structure itself is very mobile; if necessary, you can change its location. In this case, no special repair team will be required, and the financial costs will not hit the family budget too much.

Finishing and decoration methods

The creative process begins, finishing the fireplace from plasterboard, in which all ideas and fantasies come true. Consider several finishing options:

• The most budget-friendly option is to cover drywall with wallpaper with a pattern of burnt and sooty brick or natural stone;
• An artificial fireplace made of plasterboard with this decoration looks modern and original;
• Decorative plaster. There are many plaster options on the market with different compositions and different colors. It will require a shaped roller, with which the plaster solution is applied;

Options for finishing a plasterboard fireplace

• If the fireplace has a heating function, then it is better to cover it with fireproof tiles. It can withstand temperatures of 100 degrees and does not burst. The fireplace is covered with plasterboard tiles using special crosses and a thermomix (the glue can withstand temperature changes without destroying its structure);
• Decorative stone is suitable for a large fireplace in a large room. Anyone can make part of the room a castle decor with a fireplace. Designer works with stone are shown in the photo.

Tiles on drywall and stone are glued to a special fire-resistant glue (somewhat reminiscent of cement mortar). During work, care should be taken to ensure that the glue does not get on the material. If this happens, it should be removed immediately, because it cannot be done afterwards.

After the solution has dried, the stone is coated with a protective varnish. If the interior of the room is light, then a white fireplace with molding elements will serve as a classic option. The top of a plasterboard fireplace always stands out for its design work. Sometimes it is made of marble, sometimes of rare wood. A corner false fireplace made of plasterboard is mounted in a similar way, maintaining the evenness of the surfaces and accuracy in the design of the metal frame. The design of plasterboard fireplaces can be seen in detail in the photo.

Currently, there is a new wave of popularity for such a piece of furniture as a fireplace, which has always been considered a symbol of family hearth and comfort. Of course, apartment residents do not have access to a functioning fireplace for a number of reasons, however, this does not mean that the idea of ​​decorating their home with a portal will have to be abandoned. In this article I will tell you how to make a fireplace from plasterboard with your own hands - step-by-step instructions are presented below.

Decorative fireplace made of plasterboard

Options for placing a homemade fireplace decoration

Decorating a room with a fireplace can be done in very different ways. The pseudo-fireplace is not “tied” to the chimney or hood, so its installation is permissible anywhere - near the wall, in a corner, in the middle of the room, as well as in any niche.

Near the wall

A structure placed near a wall usually becomes a zoning element or a “starting point” from which the rest of the interior is built. It is advisable to install the object near a completely empty wall, in its center.

Before installing a wall decorative sample, you must make sure that the wall is level.

In the corner

The corner product has a triangular, pentagonal shape. It does not interfere with movement around the room and allows you to use space that is usually left unattended for storing things, books, and souvenirs.

A corner decorative hearth is ideal for rooms with a small area, as it takes up little space.

Ostrovny

This option is performed extremely rarely - its installation will require a lot of space, approximately in the middle of the room. This is a suitable idea for spacious studio apartments and combined spaces. The false fireplace serves here to zone the area.

Its peculiarity is that you can approach the heat source from any direction, but you will not notice any discomfort or tightness.

In a niche

Placing it in a niche allows you to decorate such an unfortunate architectural element. To “construct” such a hearth, a minimal amount of material will be required, since the borders are already there - all that remains is to glue on the decorative details.

In this case, the fireplace will highlight the harmonious design of the room.

Decorative fireplace manufacturing technology

The process of making a fireplace from plasterboard includes several stages.

Next, we will get acquainted with all the nuances of working on each of them.

Project preparation

In the process of designing a fireplace, it is necessary to decide on the following points:

As for the choice of location, the fireplace is usually installed in the living room. If the room is large, it can be placed in the center of one of the walls. If the room is small, a corner false fireplace would be an excellent solution.

Corner decorative fireplace

It must be said that designers, as a rule, try to combine the fireplace area and the TV area. Those. both of these interior items are located side by side, for example, the panel can be installed above the fireplace.

A fireplace in an apartment can be not only a decorative element, but also a functional one. For example, it can be equipped with shelves or drawers for storing all kinds of small items, or used as a TV stand.

Decorative fireplace with shelves

Of course, it is not at all necessary to strictly adhere to this rule. If desired, you can place the TV and the portal even on different walls.

Once the space for the fireplace has been determined, you should decide on its dimensions and make a design drawing. I would like to note right away that it is not at all necessary to make a decorative fireplace identical in size and design to the real one. The main thing is that the portal turns out beautiful and harmonizes with the surrounding interior.

The basis of the design is a frame made of metal profile. Using it as a constructor, you can create a frame of any size and shape.

An example of the simplest fireplace design

If you can’t create a project yourself or you can’t decide on its appearance, you can use a ready-made project from our website or other resources on the Internet.

If desired, you can make your own adjustments to the finished project, for example, if you need to change its size or appearance. For example, if you are making a portal for an electric fireplace, you will probably have to adjust the dimensions of the niche to the parameters of the device.

Preparatory activities

Drywall is considered one of the most versatile building materials. It is unpretentious, easy to use and can take on almost any finishing touch. In addition, the cost of this finishing material is acceptable for many people. In most cases, it is used for finishing apartments.

Drywall is used to create the frame of a false fireplace; it is attached to a metal profile, and then the exterior finishing of the resulting structure is carried out. This type of construction is very convenient, because if you decide that an imitation fireplace made of plasterboard should look different, then there will be no particular difficulties in changing the finish, and you can easily change its appearance.

The main decorative element in the room

Step-by-step instructions for building a fireplace from plasterboard with your own hands are as follows:

• Preparatory work, purchase of tools and materials.
• Assembling a structure from a metal profile and plasterboard.
• Carrying out finishing work and creating a finished look.

It is worth noting that the preparatory work will be largely decisive and greatly influence the result. They should start by choosing the appropriate type of false fireplace and drawing up its sketch. You can always view drawings of fireplaces made of plasterboard or other materials on the Internet; simple designs and more complex systems are posted on various portals.

Having decided on the appearance of the false fireplace, making sure that it will look harmonious in the interior, it is necessary to carry out measuring work on the ground and adjust the drawing of the false fireplace in size

This is done not only in order to build the structure correctly, it is important to know how much materials to purchase. Once you have a detailed drawing of a plasterboard fireplace with dimensions, you can easily calculate the budget for future construction

The simplest fireplace drawing

Now that you have the initial data, you can begin to select and purchase materials. First of all, you will need drywall, which comes in different types. The finishing will help you decide which type to choose; it determines which drywall to buy. For example, if the cladding will be made with ceramic tiles, then it is worth taking a moisture-resistant option (GKLV), but if painting will be done, ordinary hypocardboard (GKL) will do.

Classic types of drywall

Another important material will be the metal profile. To assemble the frame we will need guides and racks. The frame elements are fastened with metal screws, often called “bugs”, and the drywall is sewn to the profile with wood screws. The metal profile is attached to the wall with dowel nails or the same wood screws.

Types of metal profiles

Depending on the chosen style of fireplace structure, finishing materials should be purchased. To bring the product to perfection, putty will be useful; with its help you can level the joints of sheets and cover up the recesses from self-tapping screws. The primer will help to more firmly fix the finishing material, which can be wallpaper, paint, tiles, plastic panels, and other options. Each finishing material will need its own glue:

• for plastic panels - mounting;
• for wallpaper - wallpaper;
• for ceramic tiles - dry mixture, as well as grout for joints.

The amount of materials is calculated based on the dimensions and design of the plasterboard fireplace. A correctly drawn up drawing will help you calculate how much it will take to build a fireplace with your own hands from plasterboard.

In addition, you should make sure that you have the right tool for the job. What you will need:

• To draw up a drawing and apply markings - a pencil, a marker, a tape measure, a corner, a level, a plumb line.
• To work with drywall and profiles - metal scissors, construction knife, jigsaw, screwdriver, hammer drill, screwdriver.
• For finishing work - spatulas, brushes, sealant gun, containers, glue.

Think about what work you have to do to make a homemade fireplace, and in accordance with this plan, select the right tool.

How to make a portal for a fireplace with your own hands from plasterboard: the subtleties of the process

So, if you have already made a box for your portal, you can safely proceed directly to the fireplace itself. To do this, you need to strictly follow the recommendations and instructions.

It is important to immediately prepare the necessary materials and parts, such as:

• Pencil;
• Construction knife;
• Self-tapping screw for metal;
• Putty knife.

In order to simplify your task as much as possible, you must first choose a place for your fireplace. After this, you should install a metal profile, the thickness of which depends on your desires. This profile must be secured using a special screw. Cut the drywall into pieces of the sizes you need, then connect them to the metal corner frame.

Before you start decorating, you need to make sure that all corners and seams are clearly puttied.

You can use a specialized mesh for the seams, and for the corners you need to prepare a metal corner in advance. After the putty has dried, the surface of the portal should be coated with a primer. Then you need to go over the portal with sandpaper so that there are no uneven protrusions on the surface.

Now your handmade fireplace portal is ready! Now you can safely start decorating. And the main thing to remember is that everything should be in harmony with the interior of the apartment.

DIY plasterboard fireplace: choosing a design

Installing a full-fledged fireplace in an apartment not only requires large financial costs, but is also accompanied by other difficulties. But an indoor stove of this type creates a unique atmosphere in the house, so many owners decide to install a decorative plasterboard fireplace with their own hands. Photos of apartments with fireplaces indicate that this element often becomes part of the interior and makes it unique. The photographs will also help those wishing to acquire a false fireplace decide on the design and choose the most suitable option.

The dimensions and design of the imitation furnace are determined according to the following rules:

if you intend to install a fireplace that will have medium dimensions, you can place a small plasma TV inside it. This solution will allow you to simulate flames without installing gas burners and ventilation pipes;

A decorative fireplace in the living room and surrounding accessories attract attention and make this composition the highlight of the interior.

• To simulate flames in a small device, you can use a regular LED photo frame. It will perform the same function as a plasma TV (picture transmission);
• To get as close to a natural device as possible, it is recommended to install an electric heating system in the decorative stove. In this case, you can get not only a decorative interior element that imitates a flame, but also a full-fledged heater.

False fireplaces can also be used as a stand for a plasma TV. Using a structure in this way is a fairly common practice.

The shelf above the false fireplace can be used as a TV stand

Functions of a false fireplace

A plasterboard fireplace can carry different functional loads:

• In its simplest form, a fireplace is simply a protruding architectural decoration in a room. It can be equipped with a flame imitation in the form of a picture or a special screen.
• A plasterboard fireplace can be used for heating if combined with an electric heating device. The modern market offers a wide selection of electric fireplaces that combine comfort with fire safety. In this case, a plasterboard construction will help achieve maximum resemblance to a natural fireplace.

• Inside the portal you can place various shelves or drawers for storing things. They can be hidden with disguised hinged doors. Thus, at the same time as decorating the room, we will receive an original plasterboard cabinet.

The fireplace can have an impressive tabletop that can be used at your discretion. As mentioned earlier, you can place a TV there, install a mirror, or simply use it as a shelf.

Decorating the fireplace

External finishing of such structures is the final stage of construction. Today, several types of facing materials are increasingly used to carry out such processes:

1. Moldings and decorative stucco molding made of polyurethane. These products can only be used for fireplaces that do not get very hot and are not directly affected by these factors. Perfect for creating columns, arches and other unique elements. To add originality, stucco molding can be painted to match the interior design.
2. Decorative tiles. The segment of these materials is very huge and universal. There are products here that tolerate heat well, which allows them to be used both in imitation and standard fireplaces. The design of tiles is very diverse, but today elements that imitate natural stone, brick, marble and many others are very popular.

A corner fireplace is a unique design that brings warmth, comfort and original beauty to the house. When creating them, don't be afraid to experiment and use different materials, as this is a testament to individuality.

16photos

Conclusion

As we found out, anyone can decorate their home with a portal, and its production will take very little time and money. Even a small apartment area will not be an obstacle to this, since you can make a compact corner fireplace from plasterboard with your own hands. The only thing is that you should approach its decoration wisely so that this piece of furniture fits well into the design of the room.

I recommend watching the video in this article about making a decorative fireplace. If you have any questions, leave them in the comments, and I will be happy to answer you as soon as possible.

Choosing tools and materials

After all the calculations have been made, you can begin making the fireplace itself. To do this, we will need basic tools for working with drywall and a standard set of materials.

Tools and materials for creating a fireplace box from plasterboard:

• Screwdriver;
• Grinder or painting knife;
• Metal scissors;
• Hammer drill;
• Metal wall profiles and guides;
• Sheet plasterboard (gypsum plasterboard or, preferably, fireproof gypsum plasterboard);
• Screws 6 x 60 and dowel-nails.

If it is not possible to buy entire profile strips, you can use leftovers, or even assemble a frame from slats or wooden blocks. For finishing work, you will definitely need reinforcing sickle tape, painting mesh, putty and spatulas for working with it, a sandpaper grater, and reinforcing corners.

Dimensions of a false fireplace and drawing up a sketch

Before drawing up the diagram, be sure to take measurements. One of the most common mistakes is that the dimensions are disproportionate to the area of ​​the room, as well as the width and height of the wall against which it will be located.

Approximate dimensions of the portal:

The combustion chamber is located at a distance of at least 30 cm from each edge of the portal. An imitation chimney is often installed. If there will be an electric fireplace or lighting fixtures in the firebox, be sure to plan a place for sockets. Their location must comply with the requirements specified in the user manual supplied with the electrical equipment. If you choose the option with a footstool or step, their height is selected taking into account the distance from floor to ceiling, the height of family members, the presence of pets in the house, and other factors.

Experienced craftsmen recommend building a model from foam plastic according to the sketch, preferably life-size. This will help you see errors and shortcomings and prevent damage to expensive finishes.

Materials

1. Profile. You will need a galvanized metal (PN) and rack-mount (PS) guide. If you are not planning to place heavy objects, then the narrowest ones will do - 50x50 and 50x40 cm. It is permissible to make a frame only from a guide profile. If according to the sketch there is an arch above the combustion chamber, then the profile is cut every few centimeters and bent to the desired radius.

2. Fasteners. To install it to the wall, you will need dowels, and to connect its elements to each other, you will need metal screws such as bugs. The sheet is attached to the profile with special screws.

3. Hangers made of galvanized steel strip. If the wall does not deviate from the vertical, then it is not necessary to use them.

4. Drywall. For cladding the frame, it is better to choose a fire-resistant type (GKLO) of pink color with red markings. This brand can withstand 25 to 60 minutes of direct contact with an open flame. If the fireplace is located in the kitchen, then moisture-resistant GKLVO is suitable - green with red markings. For a rectilinear structure, a sheathing thickness of up to 12 mm is sufficient. Bent walls or other elements are easier to make from a flexible arched sheet 6.5 mm thick. If necessary, attach in two layers.

5. Putty - for sealing seams.

6. Reinforcing tape (serpyanka) - for finishing corners and sheathing joints.

7. Primer - to ensure better adhesion to the facing material.

Frame manufacturing technology

Before installing the fireplace, markings are applied to the wall and floor in the selected location. Step-by-step instruction:

• Use metal scissors or a grinder with a cutting disc to cut the profile.
• According to the markings, use a hammer drill or drill to drill holes for dowels in the wall and floor.
• Make holes in the profile for fasteners. See the step between them in the drawing.
• Install according to the markings and secure the sections for the base with dowels. Connect them together with self-tapping screws. To do this you will need a screwdriver or screwdriver.
• Place lintels between the sheathing base profiles.

What can you make a fake fireplace from with your own hands?

It is possible to make a pseudo-fireplace from almost anything - the choice of material depends on the imagination of the master, the availability of space for placement, the possibility of subsequent dismantling, etc.

Drywall

A plasterboard object requires the preliminary creation of a metal or wooden frame, which must be sheathed with gypsum plasterboard sheets.

Drywall is the most popular material for creating a decorative fireplace.

Brick, stone

The construction of a fireplace made of stones and bricks requires an additional foundation (for the first floors) and strengthening of the floors (when placed on the second floor and above). The product is often lined with decorative brick.

To make a false fireplace from brick or stone, you need to ensure the high quality of the materials used.

Made from polyurethane

A polyurethane pseudo-fireplace usually consists of moldings used for ceiling decoration. Less commonly, ready-made three-dimensional portals are purchased, which are glued to the wall or decorate a niche.

Polyurethane allows you to make a very durable and fire-resistant decorative hearth.

From chipboard or fibreboard

It is also easy to imitate a fireplace using chipboard and fiberboard lumber. The material is cut using a hacksaw, jigsaw, and fastened with perforated corners and self-tapping screws.

The technology is very similar to making a decorative fireplace from plasterboard.

From cardboard boxes

From a box from a washing machine, computer, refrigerator, it is also easy to create some kind of fireplace. The required part is cut off from the box and a hole is cut. The portal is decorated with plastic stucco, photo wallpaper, colored paper, and self-adhesive films.

A decorative fireplace cut out of a cardboard box is so easy to make that even children can help you.

Made of wood or plywood

The wooden fireplace is decorated with voluminous carvings and overhead perforated elements. Additionally, iron grilles and textile curtains with tiebacks are installed inside the portal. The product is varnished or painted so that the carved parts appear even more voluminous. A false fireplace made of plywood is also covered with wooden parts; the upper shelf is decorated with a wooden plinth with a beautiful profile.

When creating a fake fireplace, plywood, chipboard, timber and other materials can be used as wood materials.

From old furniture

An old bedside table, the remnants of grandma's bookcase, will find new life, becoming a modern fireplace. Excess shelves are removed from the object, the top is decorated with a board, the walls inside and outside are sanded, puttied, painted or lined with stone or foam stucco.

Decoration methods vary depending on the type of fireplace, its size, purpose and style of the room.

Unusual hearth made from books

You can also make a dummy fireplace using books. Thick, hardcovers are usually used. Side racks are made from them - books are simply placed on top of each other, with a narrow board becoming the top shelf. The interior is decorated with a drawing of a fire and a large photograph of it. Printed publications are also stored in the portal itself.

You can use lit candles for decoration.

From stucco (gypsum)

For a stucco structure, a base made of plywood, chipboard, and plasterboard is pre-installed. It is covered with a layer of gypsum, after which elements pre-cast in molds are installed on the tile adhesive. The finished structure is painted manually - with a brush or using a spray gun.

An artificial fireplace, unlike a real one, can be installed not only in the living room, but also in any other room.

Styrofoam

It is permissible to sheathe a wooden or plasterboard frame with polystyrene foam. Less often, the item is made entirely from it. To do this, the material, which is sufficiently thick, is cut to the shape of the bricks from which the masonry is made. The parts are held together with glue and painted by hand with water-based paints.

Such an imitation of a hearth will delight not only the owners, but also the guests of the apartment.

Drywall fireplaces: types and finishing options

This portal for a plasterboard fireplace can have many functions, starting from a special niche and ending with just a designer piece of decoration. Types of fireplaces:

1. A definitely made niche for an electric fireplace.
2. It’s easy to make a false fireplace from plasterboard, because it’s a design trick, an imitation of a natural heating stove. In some cases, a bio-fireplace can be installed there.
3. Imitation of a fireplace made of plasterboard. This “fireplace” does not have any functions. It's just a room decoration.

Design options for an artificial fireplace made of plasterboard

The shape of the fireplaces is as follows:

1. Natural size. An electric fireplace is installed in this portal.
2. A corner fireplace can be either natural size or much smaller, and serve, for example, as a TV stand, a plasterboard shelf for a vase or a candy dish.
3. Polyurethane fireplace. The material is attached to the wall and the result is decoration. A picture of fire or other decorative elements is also glued into the niche.

Return to contents

Making a wall-mounted false fireplace

As with any construction work, the first step is to select a location, take measurements and draw up a project. To make a false fireplace with your own hands from plasterboard, you can choose only 2 places. This is a corner in the room or one of the straight (front) walls.

After choosing a location, measurements are taken, which must be transferred to the drawing.

It is important to take into account the dimensions of the electric fireplace, of course if it is installed, the width, height and depth of the future structure. This knowledge will make it possible to correctly calculate the amount of material needed

Approximate drawing of a fireplace

It is important to consider that if your false fireplace will perform not only a decorative function, but also a heating function, then it is advisable to use fire-resistant material for its manufacture; if this is not provided, then any drywall will do. The project will also help you make an even, decorative-looking fireplace from plasterboard with your own hands.

So this stage should not be overlooked.

The project will also help you make an even, decorative-looking fireplace from plasterboard with your own hands. So this stage should not be overlooked.

Construction of a base from metal profiles

(Erection of frame)

The construction of the “skeleton” begins with marks that will show the location of the future structure. The frame can be assembled separately and then installed in the chosen location. Experts recommend carrying out assembly at the installation site.

DIY installation of a decorative-looking fireplace frame from plasterboard with a stand:

Fastening the guide profile

1. Placement of guides on the working surface. We mark the mounting points, then drill holes in the wall for the dowels. We fix the guide profile. Now we use a plumb line to mark the level at which the lower guide profile will be located, we also drill holes in the wall and fix the profile.
2. Attaching vertical guides. We attach the plumb line to the horizontal guide, and mark the location of the vertical guides on the floor. You can mark points more accurately using a laser level. Having noted the location of the vertical guides, we attach them to the lower and upper profile.
3. So we got the frame, now we need to make a compartment in it for installing an electric fireplace, if it is, of course, included in the design.

This is how a frame for a fireplace is constructed, made with your own hands from plasterboard and attached to the floor. But the frame can be made without fastening to the floor.

The process of making a frame that is not attached to the floor:

1. We fix the jumper at the level where you plan to place the heater. Next, we fix the guides on the plane. We get a rectangle, which is the bottom of the frame and has a niche for the heater.
2. To make the structure more durable and reliable, use additional jumpers. We attach a few more guides to the wall.

Let's start cladding the structure.

Sheathing the frame

This work begins with cutting out the material. We cut the drywall according to the dimensions in the drawing. Frame covering:

1. Covering a niche for a heater. The first step is to sheathe a niche on the manufactured frame. Using appropriately sized pieces of material, we line the niche and install a heater there. If mistakes are made when constructing the frame, the fireplace may not fall into place. In this case, you will have to go through the frame and re-attach everything.
2. External cladding. Only after the inside of the fireplace has been sheathed and the heater has been installed, do we proceed to sheathing the base. Sheet material is fastened using special self-tapping screws. The distance between the fastening elements should be within 15-20 cm. In this case, it is worth recessing the screws a little into the drywall.

This is how you make a false fireplace frame from plasterboard with your own hands, for a structure that is installed on the wall. Now we’ll tell you how to make a corner fireplace with your own hands from plasterboard, and finally we’ll tell you about finishing the sheathed device.

Project work

Before you make a fireplace from plasterboard, you need to draw up a drawing of it.

Structural design requires consideration of the following issues:

• Where will the fireplace be located?
• What size will the portal be?
• What will be the shape and appearance?

Most often, fireplaces are located in the living room: if there is enough space, then this can be the central area of ​​one of the walls of the room. In small rooms, it is better to choose an option with a corner imitation fireplace made of plasterboard. Due to the external similarity, a decorative fireplace is often combined with a TV area: for example, the screen can be hung above the portal. In order for the false fireplace to play not only an aesthetic, but also a practical role, it can include shelves and drawers for storing small items. Another option is to use the structure as a TV stand.

Such recommendations are not the rule - sometimes the portal and the TV are mounted on different walls. Having decided on the location of the decorative fireplace, you need to calculate its dimensions and make a drawing of the product. In this case, it is not necessary to achieve structural identity with the real device. The main thing is that it is beautiful in appearance and fits harmoniously into the overall interior design. The basis of the structure is a metal profile frame. The profile is very convenient in this regard, since with its help you can build any suitable structure.

Sometimes, when creating a drawing of a decorative fireplace from plasterboard with your own hands, problems may arise. In this case, you can view ready-made projects on specialized sites: ready-made drawings can be adjusted, adjusting them to the specific architectural situation in your home. For example, if you plan to install an electric fireplace inside a decorative portal, then when constructing the structure you will have to take into account the dimensions of a household heater. It is most convenient when sketches with several options for the final design of a plasterboard fireplace with your own hands are attached to the finished project: in this case, the fireplace fits as organically as possible into the interior of the room. A detailed list of the dimensions of each part is also important.

Decorative fireplace made of plywood: photo report

An electric fireplace with imitation flame was purchased. It was decided to make the frame for it from plywood. Furniture plywood 8 mm thick was used. The homemade portal was made in a few hours, its finishing took almost two days.

Electric fireplace

A frame was cut out of plywood to fit the dimensions of the fireplace front panel. The frame is 10 cm wider at the bottom and 7 cm wider on the other three sides.

Frame cut out

The side parts are cut according to the outer dimensions of the frame. The electric fireplace screen should be slightly “recessed” into the structure, and these parts should be the front part of the portal.

Cut out the side parts of the portal

We collect all three parts into a single whole. To do this, you will need a 10*20 mm block and strips of plywood, 7 cm wide. From all this we assemble the front wall of the false fireplace.

Assembling the front wall

We make the rest of the frame under the existing front panel. To add rigidity, we place jumpers at the top, along the upper edge of the front panel. We also install a block below. The platform for the fireplace body rests on it. We cover the side walls with pieces of plywood cut to size.

Frame rear view

Front view

Actually, the decorative fireplace with your own hands is almost ready. Finishing work remains. Two types of ceramic tiles were chosen for finishing: gray “stone-like” and white “brick-like”. We begin to glue it onto liquid nails. The work progresses slowly - you have to cut it into small pieces.

Start of finishing

Partial cutting can be done with a tile cutter, but often you have to use a grinder, which is dusty and requires concentration - you can’t saw off more, and the edge must be even. The edges of the cut tiles that remain open are sanded. And it's time again. Therefore, cladding takes a lot of time and the work is tedious.

Portal cladding for a decorative fireplace

Almost halfway through the work, an insight came: in order for the tiled corner to look neat, the edges of the tiles must be ground down at 45°. It is very inconvenient to cut at 45° with a grinder; it is much easier with a circular saw (I found it from a neighbor). Then the joint turns out, if not perfect (due to chips), then much more attractive.

All the seams between the tiles were sealed with grout of a suitable color, the joints began to look great. A tabletop is installed as the top panel. It turned out to be a false fireplace and at the same time a TV stand. I was pleased with the result.

DIY decorative fireplace finished

Decorative fireplace manufacturing technology

To make a portal for a fireplace with your own hands from plasterboard, you should go through step-by-step instructions: drawing work, designing a frame, covering the fireplace and decorating.

Project preparation and marking

To make a decorative fireplace you need to answer several questions:

1. In what part of the apartment will the fireplace be located?
2. What size will this structure be?
3. What decorative elements will be components of this design?

Stages of installing a plasterboard fireplace

When choosing a location, it is, to a greater extent, the living room. In the largest room of the home, the fireplace can be along a “blank” wall or in a corner. It all depends on the dimensions of the room and its interior. In a small room, a fireplace and a TV place are connected. Where the base for the TV is the upper part of this structure.

And also, if the fireplace is small, the TV is hung on a bracket above the fireplace. This not only saves space, but also has a noticeable design approach.

After choosing a location, you should take measurements for the future drawing. They will be based on the size of the fireplace in height and width. A niche for a fireplace can be made in small sizes, which will also look original. But, if the room allows, you can produce a portal of natural sizes. It will not only be beautiful, but also functional. The drawing of a fireplace covered with plasterboard is made progressively, recording each measurement and placing each point.

Drawing with dimensions of a plasterboard fireplace

The basis of the fireplace is a metal frame, creating it with your own hands, you can give the fireplace a shape different from the standards.

Tools and material

To make a fireplace from plasterboard, you should purchase a number of materials:

• profiles for metal structures for plasterboard;
• GKL;
• screws or self-tapping screws;
• dowels for concrete or others (depending on the base coating);
• primer for drywall;
• painting mesh;
• serpyanka ribbon;
• sandpaper for grouting;
• putty “Start” and “Finish”;
• decorative materials – artificial stone, ceramic tiles, paint, modeling.

If you want to “make a real fireplace”, first there must be a foundation (chimney, etc.). The purchased materials must be heat-resistant and fire-resistant. You need to buy heat-resistant drywall for the fireplace. The required material is calculated from the dimensions and drawing. This depends, first of all, on the size of the structure.

Design options for a plasterboard fireplace

• Screwdriver Set;
• drywall knife and blade;
• screwdriver;
• roulette;
• spatulas;
• scissors for cutting metal;
• drill with drills.

You may need nails, a hammer, a hacksaw.

Frame assembly

Before installing the frame made of metal profiles, markings must be applied to the base. Points and lines are drawn from the finished drawing, in compliance with all pre-made dimensions. Do not neglect millimeters, they can ultimately play an important role. Precise measurement transfers exactly to a corner or wall, as well as to the floor. All transferred lines must be clearly straight.

To do this, it is best to use a level and a corner. The intersection of straight lines passes at an angle of 90 degrees.

Otherwise, the structure will become curvature, which can lead to fragility and fragility. Basically, marking the fireplace frame takes a lot of time and patience, but it is worth it because this stage of the work is basic.

An example of assembling a frame from a profile for a plasterboard fireplace

After marking on a basic basis, you should start attaching the main profiles. Dowel nails are used for this. The profiles are attached to the wall according to the markings, using a level for evenness. Two NP (guide profile) attached vertically and 2 horizontally. In this case, the lower horizontal profile determines the height of the parapet.

Making a frame from a false fireplace

The frame is an integral part in the construction of a fireplace structure. Here we need to create a false fireplace with our own hands, i.e. a strong foundation (more on this in a separate article). For those who plan to use an electric fire instead of a live fire in the future, electrical wiring should be done to hide all the wires to which the electrical appliance will be connected. If you suddenly plan to use an imitation fire (candles, bio-fireplace), then you will not need a power supply.

Installation of a fireplace can be divided into the stages of constructing a frame, covering it with plasterboard and decorating the finished portal. Step-by-step instructions for installing a gypsum plasterboard structure are as follows:

1. Along the lines marked on the wall, you need to fasten the profiles to form the back wall of the artificial firebox. The fastening is done using dowels, ensuring the strength and stability of the entire structure. When installing profiles, you need to carefully check the horizontality and verticality of each element.
2. Separately assemble a frame of the same size for the front wall of the portal. Based on the dimensions in the drawing, install 2 sections of the profile on the sides of the firebox mouth. Screw to them the parts that limit the opening at the top and bottom. If you want to make an arched vault of the hearth, then the upper profile should be attached at the highest point of the arc. If desired, you can notch the sides of this segment and bend it along the desired radius.
3. Attach the resulting frame with the firebox opening to the back of the structure. To do this, cut off parts of the profile with a length equal to the designed amount of the portal protrusion above the wall plane. With a small size and rectangular shape of the fireplace, 4 parts will be enough for mounting in the outer corners of the portal.
4. 2 more of the same parts need to be fixed at the level of the firebox. To give the hearth strength, you need to screw 1-2 segments to them, the length of which is equal to the width of the portal. Fastening is done using self-tapping screws. This is especially true if you plan to install an electric fireplace or lay down logs to simulate a flame.
5. The frame for the chimney is made in the same sequence, but its front wall does not have holes, so the frame can be a simple rectangular shape, trapezoidal, inclined towards the wall, etc. If the chimney must be high, then it is necessary to install crossbars in increments of about 50 cm .
6. Install the podium along the lines marked on the floor, if required by the selected design.

The result will be a metal frame as in the photo above. When installing frame profiles, you must constantly monitor the verticality and horizontality of structural elements. Straight corners can be made using a construction square or a school protractor. For the mantelpiece, it is best to use a thick board or sheet of foam.

Sheathing the gypsum board frame

For this part of the installation, you will need to cut the sheet material into parts corresponding to the sidewalls, top panel, bottom and front part of the portal. If gypsum board trim is used for cladding, then some parts will have to be made from separate pieces. In this case, additional profiles must be installed at the joints of the parts. The edges of the gypsum board patterns should meet in the middle of the auxiliary element. The parts should be fastened using self-tapping screws with a recessed (countersunk) head (photo below).

To successfully complete the curved elements of false fireplaces (arch, podium, chimney), you will need a cutter. Using a toothed roller, you need to make holes in the paper covering on one side of the gypsum board part. Wet the part thoroughly so that the water penetrates the plaster layer, but does not wet the other layer of cardboard. Wait 12-30 minutes and try to bend the workpiece. Soaked plaster usually bends well.

Bend the workpiece along the required radius on a pre-prepared template and secure it to it. Any object with a suitable rounded surface can be used as a template. If necessary, you will have to make the mandrel yourself: from plywood or other material.

How to choose a place for a plasterboard fireplace?

Before you move on to studying the instructions, which tell you how to make fireplaces from plasterboard with your own hands, you need to decide on the choice of place for it. If you plan to install this device in a large living room, then the best solution would be to place the fireplace at a point that corresponds to the middle of the longitudinal wall.

If desired, you can also make a decorative chimney, which will give the structure the most realistic appearance. The main thing is to decide on the size and design to create your own fireplace from plasterboard. Photos of structures equipped with a chimney will help assess the feasibility of such a solution and the possibility of installing a chimney in your room.

Experienced craftsmen do not recommend installing fake fireplaces in hard-to-reach areas of the room. This rule especially applies to structures that are equipped with heating devices. Hard-to-reach places include:

• space in front of the heating radiator;
• points located near the doorway;
• places near cabinets and other bulky structures.

The fireplace should be located in a place where it will be accessible to everyone

Varieties

Being next to him, you want to immerse yourself in the magical charm of the logs on the hearth. People living in their apartment want to have a decorative fireplace made of plasterboard; it can be built with ease and pleasure.

You should know that they are divided into:

• conditional;
• reliable;
• symbolic;

For a conventional fireplace, the portal is made in such a way that a real electrical appliance can be installed in this space.

Reliable fireplaces are a copy of the original, they are made to full size and designed like the original. A bio-fireplace burner is installed in the firebox, which is a natural burning hearth. *

Symbolic fireplaces are a drawing on the wall or a dummy, using elements of various decorations.

Preparatory stage

Before starting work, you need to think about where it is better to install the fireplace so that it does not take up much space, but at the same time illuminates the room well. Experts advise installing the unit in a corner when the room is small, and in the center of the room if the parameters are large.

The shape of the portal and its dimensions depend on the choice of location. It is impractical to install a huge fireplace in a small room. Instead of comfort, this will create a visual effect of cluttering the space. To make the fireplace look as real as possible, experts advise placing it near the wall. Of course, decorative options with open fire and special lighting are also used, which are installed even in the center of the room. But this option is not suitable for a false fireplace.

Don’t forget to choose a rational location for the fireplace. Read more: do-it-yourself false fireplace.

Corner placement saves space well. In the room, in addition to the fireplace, you can make several zones, thus arranging furniture, freeing the center from unnecessary elements. Then the light from the fireplace will create additional coziness and comfort. The corner portal in this case should be triangular, not rectangular.

As for the power supply, this should be thought about in advance. Even if you make a fireplace for an electric fireplace with your own hands, the fan will require current. When the effect of naturalness is important, the socket must be hidden. There is no need to place the fireplace far from the power source. It is better to use the option with an outlet near the fireplace.

You cannot hide the socket in the portal, as this can lead to damage if the heating is actively used. The ideal option would be to install it with a special switch. As for calculating the parameters and designing the fireplace, here all the data is entered into the drawings and the project. Experts advise first making a trial version in electronic form so that you can correct the details and remove unnecessary things. After this, all the necessary calculations are carried out, the model is transferred to the real world for the final project.

Also, don’t forget to think about the power supply.

How to make a portal for a fireplace with your own hands from plasterboard (video)

Indeed, a beautiful fireplace is an important part of any apartment. It is not just a piece of decoration or a component of your wealth or greatness. A fireplace means home comfort, warmth and family evenings. And it’s important not just to put this fireplace in your home, it’s important to be able to make it together with your family, so that all members of your family can join in the making, installation of the fireplace, and choosing the best decoration and design options. Drywall is the easiest to work with, so you don’t need to turn to specialists, but you can do everything yourself and give your nearest and dearest the warmth that is so scarce in city apartments.

Portal with plaster finish

Decorative plaster allows you to turn a wide variety of design ideas into reality. With its help, the surface of the fireplace portal can be finished to resemble wood, brick and other materials.

First step

Assemble the base of the structure. The technology is extremely simple - first a support beam is installed, after which it is sheathed with chipboards.

Chipboard sheets attached to the frame

Second step

Prepare the slabs for finishing and decorate them.

It is best to finish the slabs before installing them, so that all elements can dry properly while lying on a horizontal surface. During drying, the parts must be covered with polyethylene.

Before finishing, carefully sand the slabs, putty them and cover them with parquet varnish in several layers.

For additional decoration, apply neat grooves to the walls to imitate brickwork.

Third step

Complete the decoration of the fireplace portal at your discretion. To do this, use decorative plaster. You can simply cover the surfaces of the portal with it, or you can perform an unusual finish using special decorative elements, modeling, imitation masonry, etc.

Prepare the mixture based on the manufacturer's recommendations, but with minor changes so that the finished mixture is slightly thicker than the manufacturer advises.

The use of decorative plaster in finishing a fireplace

The consistency of the mixture should resemble plastic pottery clay. Using pre-prepared forms, you can make a wide variety of shapes from such plaster and decorate your fireplace with them.

The result will be a very original and elegant design with only one drawback - the plaster decor is quite fragile, so you need to handle such a fireplace portal with extreme caution. This is only a small part of the existing design options for fireplace portals. If you wish, you can make your own changes to the proposed instructions or even create original author’s designs - the flight of fancy in the case of fireplace portals is practically unlimited

If you wish, you can make your own changes to the proposed instructions or even create original author’s designs - the flight of fancy in the case of fireplace portals is practically unlimited

This is only a small part of the existing design options for fireplace portals. If you wish, you can make your own changes to the proposed instructions or even create original author’s designs - the flight of imagination in the case of fireplace portals is practically unlimited.

What is a portal for a plasterboard fireplace?

One of the most practical and not so expensive options for a fireplace portal can be a plasterboard niche. Drywall is a wonderful substitute for other materials and is easy to use. Some may think that this is just a fake of a real fireplace, a distraction to show off their wealth and prosperity. But you shouldn’t think like that, because a fireplace is, first of all, a source of comfort and home warmth.

Moreover, a plasterboard portal has many advantages:

• Variety of shapes, placement and finishing options;
• This fireplace is a safe design;
• The cost of drywall is low;
• The work is done extremely easily;
• You can make it yourself even in a city apartment for subsequent installation of an electric fireplace in the portal.

Now you don’t need to hire workers, because you can make a wonderful fireplace yourself, relying on your own experience and sense of taste.

But if you decide to install a portal made of plasterboard, you will encounter some problems, the main one of which is that this structure is created when planning the entire room and adjustments in the future are not allowed.

Therefore, the project must be carefully calculated and all dimensions must be precisely coordinated. But if you follow all the instructions and use only high-quality tools, then you don’t have to worry about this work and get a high-quality result.

Fireplace assembly

Then we are expected to assemble the box (frame). According to the calculations in the drawing and markings, a metal profile of the required length is cut on the floor and walls. Then, using self-tapping screws and a screwdriver, it is assembled into a single structure, according to the selected geometry of the false fireplace.

If the design plan provides for the design to have an arch above the visual firebox, then to obtain such an arch it is necessary to notch the profile in several places and bend it slightly.

It is worth noting that at this stage it is quite important to firmly connect the parts of the cut profile to each other, since the stability of the entire structure as a whole depends on this. The presence of all kinds of small-length jumpers contributes to the strength

Craftsmen advise first assembling the structure itself from profiles and only then attaching it to the wall and floor, since installing individual parts in the reverse order will be inconvenient; the screwdriver may simply not fit between the wall and any structural element.

But in any case, when assembling the frame, you should use a building level as often as possible to check the correctness of the assembly.

Covering the frame of a false fireplace

To sew up the finished frame of a plasterboard dummy fireplace, it is necessary to cut the plasterboard slabs.

The material is cut in the following order:

1. A long rule or ruler is applied along the cut line.
2. Using a sharp knife, an incision is made to the required distance.
3. The sheet is neatly broken and folded.
4. To finally separate the cut part from the back side, you need to cut the cardboard with a knife.

Cutting complex shapes involves preliminary drawing of the outlines of the elements on a plasterboard sheet. The cutting itself is best done with a jigsaw. The finished cladding fragments are fixed to the frame using self-tapping screws (fixation step - 10-15 cm). If the portal is equipped with an electric fireplace, the device itself must be placed inside it to check the correct operation.

The subsequent progress of work looks like this:

• Drywall joints on the same plane are equipped with a 5 mm wide chamfer.
• All joint areas are covered with strips of sickle mesh for additional reinforcement.
• The product is impregnated with a primer in two layers. It can be applied with a paint brush or roller. The second layer may be applied only after the first has completely dried.
• When the primer has dried, all joints and places where screws are screwed in are sealed with a layer of starting putty.
• After allowing the mixture to set, the entire portal is puttyed with the finishing mixture. As a rule, a high-quality finish is achieved in two layers.
• Grinding of the dried putty is carried out with a grater and sandpaper No. 100-120, to eliminate all irregularities.
• At the end, the entire surface of the decorative fireplace is cleaned of dust and re-primed.