CONTEMPORARY MANTEL BUILD | It's Easier Than You Think...

In this video we go through the entire build process on how to build and install this contemporary style mantel.
Freud LU80R010: 10" Ultimate Plywood & Melamine Blade - amzn.to/4afXNZA (Amazon, Earns Commissions)
Wixey Digital Angle Gauge - amzn.to/46LY6Zb (Amazon, Earns Commissions)
JessEm 04301 Clear-Cut TS Stock Guides - amzn.to/3GziXUX (Amazon, Earns Commissions)
Fast Cap Glu-Bot - amzn.to/3RcMNn6 (Amazon, Earns Commissions)
Milwaukee 23 Ga Pin Nailer - homedepot.sjv.io/LPgdRo (Amazon, Earns Commissions)
Duck HD Clear Packing Tape - 6 Rolls - amzn.to/3NkLMIG (Amazon, Earns Commissions)
Heavy Duty Tape Dispenser - amzn.to/3sZOJHH (Amazon, Earns Commissions)
00:00 - Intro
00:21 - Overall Build Strategy
00:34 - Milling the Plywood Precisely
05:50 - Ripping Bevels Accurately
24:39 - Tips for Miter Folding With Tape
34:02 - Cutting the Miters with Sliding Miter Saw
37:15 - Joining the Miters
43:06 - Installation
44:13 - Outro
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[@InsiderCarpentry]

THANKS FOR YOUR SUPPORT!!! Freud LU80R010: 10" Ultimate Plywood & Melamine Blade - amzn.to/4afXNZA (Amazon, Earns Commissions) Wixey Digital Angle Gauge - amzn.to/46LY6Zb (Amazon, Earns Commissions) JessEm 04301 Clear-Cut TS Stock Guides - amzn.to/3GziXUX (Amazon, Earns Commissions) Fast Cap Glu-Bot - amzn.to/3RcMNn6 (Amazon, Earns Commissions) Milwaukee 23 Ga Pin Nailer - homedepot.sjv.io/LPgdRo (Amazon, Earns Commissions) Duck HD Clear Packing Tape - 6 Rolls - amzn.to/3NkLMIG (Amazon, Earns Commissions) Heavy Duty Tape Dispenser - amzn.to/3sZOJHH (Amazon, Earns Commissions)

[@popopp2297]

Hopefully you had a new shop warming party! Your instructions are far superior to any other KZbin wood workers, I appreciate your attention to detail.

[@cargogh]

I appreciate how you've obviously learned early that we don't lose anything by giving away our knowledge and expertise. And you keep it real, humble and watchable by having an empty nailer or lacking a couple of inches to other carpenters with their 12"ers. That was a bunch of style from a 4x8!

[@MrGCondon]

Spencer, you’re truly a Master Trim Carpenter. And you’re a great Educator. It would benefit all school districts if they promoted your videos in their Wood Shop Classes. Your videos share Organization, Planning, Math, Safety and Building Science. Young and Old benefit from your messages. Keep going strong into 2024 and beyond!

[@InsiderCarpentry]

Thanks 👍

[@NextLevelCraftworks]

I love how you put that mini clip of "yes i know i wouldnt have this problem with the Dewalt saw" Literally was thinking that when the message popped up :D

[@steverau1366]

I'll echo at least one other comment. You are a huge inspiration. You're talent is nothing short of incredible. I have learned so many things watching your videos. For me, you're attention to detail and how you show it in your videos is truly amazing. I enjoyed every minute of this one. Please continue producing these great learning videos.

[@paulsexteriordesigns]

Hi Spencer, I have been watching your videos for years. I have learned so many things from your channel and as a contractor I am able to do way more work and have way more confidence working by myself after learning tips from you!

[@Ta53508]

You are the only person I watch on the tube I would hate to see go. And I have bought a few things in your store. Keep the hard work up. Tks

[@nigemamobili8]

Hi Spencer 13:40 To have the best precision in the angles or even when you adjust any type of measurements mechanically, the tolerance between the parts that make up the mechanism must be considered. It is called backlash, so if you come from a 45 degree angle that you achieved starting from a less angle, zero in this case and you make a cut and then want to go to 12 degrees, you must always reduce the angle to a smaller measurement than 12. As you reach from zero ASCENDINGLY to 45.2, you should do the same with 12.2, of course not necessarily reaching zero again but at least 7 degrees and then reach the 12.2. If you exceed the measurement, you must return again a few degrees lower and try again to always achieve 12.2 upwards without going over. If you go down and reach 12.2 degrees directly, when putting effort on the disc, that angle will move depending on the backlash of your saw, which will depend on the quality of the brand and the age of use.

[@e.t.preppin7084]

A little bit of reality on this video. I appreciate that. I’m sure several of us have opinions on what else you could have done but I’d have probably done exactly what you did. I still want to know how you mounted those built ins. 👍👍👍

[@RikoRey92]

I always buy things through your links, it's literally the least I can do to pay back all the knowledge I gained through your videos. Salud 🍻

[@InsiderCarpentry]

I appreciate that!

[@benhorton1708]

I’m a 4th generation carpenter but no longer work with my tools. I enjoy your videos tremendously. In the commercial world there is zero precision. I am in no way a painter, you couldn’t pay me enough, but I bet those guys love you. It would be even better if you carried at least the trim painting in your number. You probably save them so much labor with your precision I bet they make good money following you.

[@anneoreilly4900]

I’m just a beginning woodworker but I learn something every video. I appreciate the no nonsense about links and comments. And I’m looking forward to my Christmas gifts via your best gadgets video.

[@clintprice2123]

The thumbs up ALWAYS gets clicked on before I watch the current video. Nice job as always!

[@lesbentley4082]

My number 1 channel to watch. Another great build/tutorial Spencer!

[@DGALVIN45]

💯

[@taipeiblvd123]

One good way to get rid of hiccup is to take a big breath in, hold it in, and then take sip of water. Great great class as always

[@judsonpitt3859]

The quest for tighter miters continues. Thanks for your tips and tricks!

[@gregorymacneil2836]

On the assembly - Did you consider Dominos on the mitred corners? - Great Video! My safety rule of thumb (no pun intended) for feeding stock through any machine centres around one simple question - Would I let an employee or loved one do this? If the answer is no then I don't do it myself. My auto body repair guy says - "We make a living because people don't follow the instructions".

[@InsiderCarpentry]

That's a great guideline to go by!

[@gregorymacneil2836]

That simple guideline applies to a lot of things - but you do have to be able to recognize the danger@@InsiderCarpentry

[@e.t.preppin7084]

Beautiful modern looking mantel. I love building mantels!

[@ojscustoms9251]

I don't even do wood working, but for some reason I watch your videos as entertainment due to your cool/calm demeanor.

[@aaronoconnor606]

I rip the factory edge off with a track saw befor i even use the table saw. because factory edge is not perfect on every sheet. I do this for cabinetry i also use parallel guides and rip other side as well if you are building cabinetry you can stack up 3 sheets and do this for all your rips just clamp it all down and rip 3 or 4 deep in one pass. It prevents tarout and improves production.

[@2979paul]

What a great learning video. I love the longer teaching approach.

[@ryanmikita]

So good, Spencer! Thanks for the tips and tricks!

[@mathewnitkiewicz5975]

You sir are my favorite carpentry teacher on youtube. The way you explain the steps you take for each project really sets you apart. Youre a master at what you do, thanks for the lessons

[@stephenfreeman8617]

Love the science behind this mitred joint 🙌

[@natebrown5588]

Looks great Spencer!

[@MrBobisadog]

Great video! Happy Holidays!

[@masontejera506]

Really appreciate the deep dives on the mantel and bookshelves. Thanks for leveling up the whole craft!

[@jamieearl6611]

I wanna GO Home .....love it !!!!! GOOD work !~

[@mikegrimaldi5844]

Best channel ever I like that you recommend certain products especially the tape idea to make perfect mitres. Perfect timing as I’m planning (in the works for about 10 yrs now) to add bookshelves and a mantle over an older brick fireplace.

[@Markw8480]

Awesome work as usual!!

[@peggykhiev2884]

Thank you for such detailed instructions!

[@ForgedinWalnut]

Great video! Love the detailed instruction.

[@kenklingler5533]

Hey Spencer, I just want to commend you on not only your incredible finish carpentry skills, but your comprehensive how-to videos. I’ve learned so much from watching you perform your magic. Thanks dude!

[@mosesramirez8038]

Great job. Love your videos, very informative

[@biglav6048]

The Great Educator! Optimistic for those bookcase builds and install video...

[@bkappmeyerify]

Awesome mantel!!

[@josephvan66]

Another fantastic job. I really enjoy the videos.

[@langtrybuilt3899]

Nice work as always! Enjoy the new shop!

[@jdpendery]

Best cure for hiccups I know is to go for a run. Not always possible or convenient but has always worked for me. From one carpenter to another great work and content!

[@davidmatias6239]

Love all the little details you share

[@brianlochrie3958]

Absolutely superb. Spencer.

[@MichaelCZUSA]

Another great class, Spencer. Your attention to details is as refreshing as is your humor! Oh, and yes, those rollers are in my Amazon cart! Thanks!

[@ronallen6578]

Hi Spencer, I'm near Dayton and have enjoyed your channel for years now. For such a young guy ( I'm 67,so you are very young in my eyes) your knowledge and experience is quite remarkable. It shows everyone just how much you enjoy your trade. Well done😊😊. 2 items. First, I could have sworn that I've seen in your video that you said you didn't run tape along the length of your joints?? Am I mistaken?? Had to think a minute😂😂. I always kept a wet towel nearby when doing glue ups. I had a tendency to do as you, but hated smearing glue all over my jeans. I'm just a priss I guess. Sorry you don't have a place to lean your plywood after cutting. Nice problem to have though, isn't it?? 😂😂 Do you have any tools you'd like to have that you don't?? Would a nice 36" wide belt interest you. Just curious. Have a good weekend. Ron

[@InsiderCarpentry]

A wide belt is definitely on my list! There is nuance to miter folding. I explained in a recent video that I prefer not to run tape the length when doing long beams. For my precise work like this I run the tape at length and perpendicular.

[@ronallen6578]

@@InsiderCarpentry Thanks.

[@charlesbartholomew1566]

Thank you for your excellent teaching style!

[@nathanbowers6047]

Get yourself the TSO parallel guides, game changer in breaking down plywood.

[@hansangb]

Even just the square rail is a game changer.

[@davidmagner8397]

Great job, Spencer. I learn so much watching your videos and love that fact that you focus on good enough for the real world. Keep the content coming.

[@nialstewart8263]

Another fantastic video/ project. 👍

[@jefferyholland]

I recently used your miter fold technique on some floating shelves I built out of oak veneered plywood. Worked like a charm. Thanks for sharing.

[@cleasonhorst5746]

Thanks Spencer! I've switched to TB1 at your recommendation and am loving it! So easy to cleanup and no stiff spots on my jeans. :)

[@andrewphillips1865]

Great build. I love the teaching

[@chrisclapper9828]

Once again, great job, full of tips. Keep up the good work.

[@andrewfischer3409]

Always a great time watching your videos! I like all the pop up comments that you ad. It reminds me of a mtv “pop up video “ . keep it up!

[@newyorkcitycolour]

This is exactly what I wanted to do over Christmas for my home but I had no clue how deep to make the mitred piece to make it look nice. Your drawing is SO helpful. Thank you so much!

[@TheMixmastamike1000]

You are a huge inspiration and I really appreciate the detail you include in your videos as well as sharing the tools and products you use. It helps me be a better craftsman and affords me the ability to offer more value to my customers. Thank you.

[@shaneroche7777]

Excellent work and tutorial. Thank you.

[@AnointedHomeWoodworking]

All the great things I’ve seen you do, that final note on screen where you spoke on behalf of all professionals about making a profit and going on with life was the best lol God bless you brother.

[@miserablesod1]

Great stuff Spencer

[@doug779]

I am not a professional by any stretch, but I learn so much from your videos. As a DIYer my projects turn out so much better. Thanks so very much.

[@jasonmyers3358]

I was talking to a co-worker that I help flip houses with about your mitre folding and his brother heard me say your name! He perked because I think he owns everything tool you do, lol! It’s amazing how many people I work around know your name and videos! It’s so cool to nerd out with other carpenters about your content! Awesome video, as usual!

[@anthonyflores9336]

Dude, that was amazing! From the start I knew this build was going to have a lot of detail with those flush sides and noses. You are a master carpenter! Very cool build. Great shop too!

[@ryanelfman3520]

Great stuff!

[@howardlaunius7484]

Another well appreciated lesson from the professor

[@t.e.1189]

Just bought the JessEm guides. Have yet had a chance to user them. But this is exactly one of the reasons I wanted them. Great tip on using a scrap piece to feed the stock through.

[@Michael_robertson]

Learned quite a bit. Thank you for the content.

[@pdcro1247]

Beautiful!!! Thank you!!

[@kingrigidthedeplorable2720]

On a recent video I criticized your choice of the kapex over the much more affordable and, in my opinion superior, DeWalt slider, some of your followers took me to task saying I "must not invest in my future" because i object to the cost of a festool saw. Well, watching you finish those cuts with a DW jigsaw was quite satisfying to say the least. Having said that, this was a good video and I believe your extra effort on the table saw was worth it's weight in gold.

[@InsiderCarpentry]

Haha... That jigsaw work definitely wasn't in the typical "social media facade". For the record, I love the Dewalt slider, it just happened to be that the function and footprint of the kapex fit my needs well in the shop.

[@silverbackag9790]

Have a Dewalt. Festool or Makita is better for a wall based miter station IMHO. I think the Dewalt is as good or maybe better…but that arm! As I am building out a shop, I am debating as to whether I want a miter station at all (mostly due to space constraints in the wood working area of my shop). Might just use my MFT style assembly table and look into the woodpeckers larger mitering sled. I can dig out the Dewalt from a storage shelf I desperately need it.

[@billzima7068]

Gorgeous as always

[@ShrednESP]

Thanks for the detailed explanation of your process. I mainly do small furniture projects and home diy projects in my garage shop. Totally hobby based and a few friend jobs (favors). I did a wrap around beam for my brick mantle. Your beam videos really helped. Thanks.

[@clintprice2123]

Spencer, two questions for you, have you ever seen or considered using g a silicone basting brush to spread the glue? They are great because when the glue dries on the bristles they easily peel off and you’re good to use it again. My other question is why not use trim head screws to join the miters? The heads are smaller and they burrow themselves easily into the surface and use a square drive bit to sink them. Your new shop looks so nice, it must be so satisfying to look at it all and know your hard work put it there. I’m awaiting many more top notch projects to come along. Happy New Year, may 2024 bring you good health, happiness and continued prosperity!

[@LuisSanchez-wf9zw]

Thank you so much for this video tutorial. Just in time for the style I was looking for to surprise my wife for Christmas.

[@brucemccarrier4276]

Great stuff . I learn every video thanks

[@edover50]

Always great to watch. Happy to use your links and love that they automatically go to Amazon Canada now.

[@scottywed]

Thanks for another great tutorial. I made my first floating shelves after watching one of your videos. I might have to try this mantel next.

[@allenguffey9370]

Great job as always and full of information

[@John-cb6wn]

Beautiful work best on the internet

[@galenfowler8453]

I really enjoy your videos. I have learned an unbelievable amount from you.

[@bobkelley2555]

I'm always impressed with the way you think through a build. This mantel is amazing and after seeing it built I believe I can do it as well. Thanks so much for creating content like this! You are at the top of my list for trim and carpentry!!

[@InsiderCarpentry]

Glad you like it!

[@t.e.1189]

As usual nice video. I agree with you on everything you say on how you process your plywood. I do it the same way. As far as not having wall space to stand cut offs up against, make yourself a roll away cart with shelves. You have plenty of room to store it away when not needing it.

[@6453bianchi]

Always the most informative videos from this man right here. Good work as always.

[@prf4510]

awesome video man thanks

[@scottnagle2135]

Great video. Thanks.

[@nathanpierce6175]

Awesome work. I learn so much from your channel. Thanks so much for putting it out.

[@rosskirch6929]

Enjoy watching your videos, lots of good techniques like using the tape for great miter joints.

[@Thatguy-sc5fz]

Your videos are awesome.

[@tannerevans3056]

I have made a few faux beams for clients and originally saw the miter folding trick from you. Was the best!!! Also, i run a Kapex and one of the few times I’ve been annoyed with it is when it didn’t make it through the whole faux beam! Might have to move myself up to a 12” slider. Great stuff, dude!

[@fredspadafora1386]

Thank you so much for such an informative video.

[@montewestlund8195]

you could biscuit join a pair of the backing blocks at each corner. awesome videos, thanks.

[@jedmc8419571]

Festool countersink bit would hugely reduce the effort required putting those mitre screws in 👍 Fantastic work though, and great videos. Best wishes from England 🇬🇧

[@calvarycustomsllc]

Looks great! I'm actually going to suggest this to one of my clients that is looking for that contemporary look. Thanks for this video and for all you do on your channel!

[@user-qz2qu2hp2i]

Merry Christmas to you and your family.

[@user-ed5jh3ff6u]

Excellent as always, you are going to cut pin nails if not placed correctly, hammers blades. You the man

[@trijmd1]

Like always good technique and tricks thanks😉

[@scottwilson4347]

I did one of these while ago & didn’t know how I’d do the miter..it was a little bigger than yours but I knew I couldn’t cut the pieces & hope they line up so I miter folded them long first just like you & cut them on my miter saw..it turned out great..it was some special wood from South America so I had no xtra as it was to be stained..this video makes me know I made the right choice 😊thanks Spencer for all your videos

[@barstad-9591]

The only hiccup remedy that’s ever worked for me is eating a teaspoon of white sugar. It doesn’t taste good, but it works like a charm. Thanks for the video. Excellent instructions and overall design and information. Love your new shop.

[@dougdiplacido2406]

Great lesson and beautiful mantel. Thanks.

[@lordpaxman]

Excellent as usual! When you’re gluing that very narrow miter slot, lift up from the back, like a reverse fold to expose it!

[@InsiderCarpentry]

Good thinking!!!

[@debbieeckels25]

Nice job. I like watching you work. You give me better ideas on how to do things.

[@sethhamilton5824]

I like the new format.

[@lloydwolfe3175]

Really like the inside info visual blurbs you are using! If you could leave them up a couple seconds more would be great! Thanks for what you are doing!

[@InsiderCarpentry]

Thanks for the feedback! Will do!