HGTV would NEVER show you this...

[@TorchAndWillowDesigns]

I have been a woodworker for a little over 25 years. I've built custom cabinets, furniture, decor, jigs, bars, and fireplaces, etc. I loved being able to have some creative control when it came to fireplaces. Being able to put in custom corbels instead of cookie-cutter designs was probably my favorite thing about building fireplaces. Corbels are so unique, versatile, and add so much character and personality to walls, doorways and fireplace mantels. Back in the early ages of architecture they were not only used for support but as a decorative piece not supporting anything at all. I'm glad they are making a comeback especially in French Provential-themed home interior as a decorative element and not just a pretty bracket. Great job!

[@jelsner5077]

My heart sank when you mentioned that libraries do not want to carry those architectural reference books. If libraries don't keep them, all that information will be lost.

[@julianflores2013]

You have to share the names of all the books in your collection so far. I would love to read them.

[@alfio22]

That cove adds such depth the way the lower pieces disappear and appear as you move.

[@stephenmcgeown]

You're making incredible progress not just on your home but with your skills and authority with fine carpentry. So nice to see this journey!!

[@kenethsoberano]

Most places I've worked he would be laughed at for all the nails and screws he uses.

[@Arietje]

@@kenethsoberano I think it was clear hes doing something new here so don't expect him instantly to act like he has build a ton of these things.

[@goldfishn3545]

@@kenethsoberanoThe key to your statement is “most places I’ve worked.” Lol. So you don’t run your own business and evidently aren’t good enough to stay at one place. Ironically your criticism of him speaks volumes about your lack of success. Maybe you should takes notes instead.

[@cartercarter3484]

@@kenethsoberanobecause everywhere u work are hacks and trying to cut cost as much as possible

[@Cimone90]

You can sprinkle some table salt in your glue ups to prevent slipping

[@chrisoaks4767]

Man, I’m not going to lie, when I first started watching your vids several years ago, I thought you were just another MDF slingin hack! Man, was I wrong!!! Even with my crappy attitude, I kept watching you. Took me a bit to realize how much passion you have for your work and how your early days were just part of the building blocks to get you where you are today. Like, you always had the fire inside, just waiting the opportunity. I appreciate you sharing your journey with us. You continue to impress and inspire others to do great work too! Godspeed brother!!

[@TheDACZIDE]

I remember when you used to teach how to cut trim now those day are gone you are officially graduated as a master carpenter. Great job!

[@nickreffer3046]

Wow, the way you elevated your craft Richard is crazy I see that Brent Hall played a significant part of your understanding and development of this craft. Keep up the good work been following the channel now for a couple of years.

[@neilvandenbrink5758]

Richard, this fireplace mantel and panelling series is some of the best content I've seen on KZbin in a while. I look forward to each one. Great to see how you're continually honing your craft. It show great humility that you're willing to learn, apply, and then share what you're learning. Keep it up

[@JD_Customs]

This … man, this is insane. I have been watching your channel since day one and you’ve never stopped mastering the craft at all! Glad that you’ve committed yourself to bringing us along your journey via your channel and content!

[@wchops7578]

My 5 year old literally just asked me to watch woodworking (which is your channel) and here we go with a fresh video for him!!!

[@pazmaniaoh6341]

Never move, no one will appreciate this like you do. Well done. Looking fantastic

[@dvntsmh]

One thing that's really awesome about this is that most people who do this level of work don't have the means to own something like this for themselves. It's inspiring to see the worker be the owner. Happy for you and your family!

[@michaelstrang2563]

Finish carpenters can charge 150 an hour where I live, and make tens of thousands a week on their own when they are busy, and for the good ones they are always busy.

[@patrickday4206]

I'm a 45 year old finish carpenter it's nice seeing someone making videos on stuff like this.

[@moneymakingmikeg.9555]

This is sooooo DOPE Bud!!! I'm enjoying this so much. Commented on Brent's last video that his influence on you hasn't gone unnoticed & is very much appreciated. Hoping all is well Bud, Dirty Jersey out!!

[@ecarrillo71]

I've watched all of your videos even from your DFW days. This classical build may be my absolute favorite so far. Great job Richard!

[@shadowman3320]

You have such a love for the art, Richard, and it is making you an incredible craftsman. Your services will be in huge demand in the future.

[@timh7156]

Nice that you’re taking the time to show video every single piece of the build. It looks so good.

[@timlemasters3713]

Ive been watching your channel for years . I have learned so many things from you, thank you sincerely... You are a true artist . You have found your voice . I'm happy you have found a mentor such as Brett Hull I absorb every video you both put out . Thanks again for the knowledge you share .

[@neelamharia4225]

I’ve enjoyed your progression of skills and the quality of work you are doing. Looking forward to the next video

[@DavidVelezPhotography]

Thank you for the time for not only the build-out but the time required for editing and voice-over of this video.

[@robertbamford8266]

Your workmanship is, as usual, flawless. What is even more amazing to me is your ability to put together all the different shapes to create the result you visualized. Keep the videos coming!

[@kevinkolinen6181]

That really took shape and came together nicely in this episode. Really nailing down your knack for this historical carpentry. Dedication and hard work really does pay off. Keeping the craft alive! Absolutely beautiful.

[@MarkStevens-kf8bi]

Love the channel have been watching you for 4 years and have learned a great deal. Well done!

[@zaddy14]

Damn this mantle build is getting me fired up!!!

[@torridice]

Amazing. Thanks for taking us along the journey

[@clinte7590]

Amazing work! Man, my grandfather was a carpenter that did beautiful trim work, cabinets, mantles, crown, stairs, etc.. I wish I would have found an interest when I was in HS and I picked his brain back then. That time has long gone now... Honestly, I think the best thing is to check out old carpentry books now.

[@oldb-1kenobi]

It's good to know that artisans are still out there.

[@RobinGKT]

I’ve enjoyed every video you’ve put out. Thank you!

[@Dan-ol2rd]

Probably my favorite channel, awesome job from planning through execution! A master craftsman at work, cannot wait for the next installment Richard. Thank you, Dan.

[@benny09172011]

Amazing work. Love when someone takes pride in their craft. Not many guys out there willing to go above and beyond like you! Keep up the great work!

[@robertyulick48]

I’ve watched hours and hours of your videos. I’ve always loved doing trim and molding at my house. I just opened my own business doing finish carpentry and can’t thank you enough for the knowledge I gained from your videos. Keep up the great work! We need more shirts!

[@tjh_8913]

Awesome in every way. Keep up the great work. Love your videos!

[@547Rick]

Outstanding! I'm enjoying this series very much and thanks for sharing!

[@t.e.1189]

Richard, can you please provide the name of the second book you showed that was withdrawn from the university? The mantel looks awesome by the way.

[@AdamSantorelli]

Yes please I would like to know also thanks.

[@Kernowwoods]

What an amazing journey u are on dude. Thanks for bringing us along 🤙

[@survivaloptions4999]

I would think that having Brent Hull on speed dial would help. Looking amazing! I would encourage you to take up photography. Visit Philly, Atlanta, New Orleans, the Biltmore House. Oak Alley Plantation, etc., go on tours and photograph everything. Build your own library. Heck, publish your own book!

[@kjbenner]

One other resource might be the Historic American Buildings Survey (you can find the documents online at the Library of Congress). They include scale drawings of a bunch of trim and other details from buildings they considered historic when they did it in the '30s. Not sure there's many mantles in there though. This project is looking great!

[@travis3236]

Just posted he should search the Library of Congress.

[@TheFunnyCarpenter]

That was really cool buddy. I've been thinking of shaping up some different mouldings out of primed pine for my place. This was inspiring:)

[@heystarfish100]

I have been watching this channel for a long time and I think that Richard is soon to become a real somebody. Keep learning and producing Richard as I enjoy watching your endeavors.

[@robhersey1796]

I totally understand your passion and research into classic architectural details. I travel all over and a big part of what I look at in my travels is ...Entrance doors and door hardware!

[@artistjosephtubb]

the inward cove is a great detail! love it!

[@howardbaker6766]

Great job! Hard to find true craftsman with a passion for their work nowadays! Thanks for sharing your talent with us.

[@donwilliams3626]

Thanks for helping me discover how many bracket templates I have in the corner of my shop!

[@johnsaxontube]

You are amazing! You inspired me to replace my base mold in my home in East Dallas with Windsor One colonial, and to build a little pediment above one of my doorways.

[@bki6112]

I have been following you for some time. I really like how you are now working with the moldings and classical styles. Not many people are. I imagine this is because most people don't want to pay for that level of work. I would love to see your mantle done in stain grade. Keep up the great work!!!! Awesome man!!!!

[@miserablesod1]

Great progress Richard. I'd definitely go for the white oak contrast for the shelf top and freeze below, but either way it looks amazing.

[@IceCat143]

Looks great. I really like the cove underneath the mantel piece.

[@jasonweaver2566]

Wow! It looks absolutely incredible. The only thing that saddens me is knowing how much it would cost to have installed at my house

[@albertm8576]

This is the second time I watch your video and am awestruck at your work. I’ve seen mantles built this mantle takes you back to historical times. It is truly amazing. Your skill level is like “Wow”. Thank you for allowing us to come along on this journey 🙏

[@matdelaney2727]

Wow, you really have become a true craftsman. I watched your early videos and you were good then but this is next level. It's refreshing to see people like you become true masters of their craft

[@tricia8727]

This is so awesome! I love historic architecture. What was accompished long ago with simpler tools is just astounding to me. Yours is looking just as beautiful ❤

[@hansangb]

That white oak shelf would look incredible. A true whistle of approval on this build. Wow!

[@SableSunsets]

Obsessed with your work and passion for this stuff. I am a stay at home mom who has picked up doing moulding in my home. I have always been into antique furniture restoration. Working with a gorgeous buffet from the mid 1800s I appreciate everything to do with woodworking. The fact the furniture was just as ornate as the walls it was set against just Literlly fascinates me !! I do have to say that putting moulding and trim work into your home is NOT cheap just the price for materials and how much you need for a 2,000 sq ft home and using real wood. I’m not talking the styrofoam stuff but I do not frown down on the resin recreations of say a very intricate plaster crown. I am trying to say just pay your crafts men they deserve it!! Thanks for you passion and I loved seeing Thomas Jefferson’s mantels ! Thank you!!

[@franciscogutierrez357]

I love you workmanship is amazing,thank you for keeping the traditional craftsmanship alive

[@steelvalleysportsmen7737]

So nice seeing craftsmanship instead of some ridiculous build for KZbin views. You are an inspiration man. Thank you.

[@oilcitywoodworks]

This mantle series is straight fire!!! Sooooo very cool. I’ve done a ton of trim work down here in setx but nothing to this level. Just super professional and beautiful craftsmanship. Fantastic!

[@drewk3402]

Watching the evolution of your craftsmanship has been inspiring, Richard, as well as educational. You deserve to be proud of what you’ve accomplished for yourself and your family. Hats off to a growing artisan! I look forward to continue following your journey and thank you for sharing what you’ve learned along the way.

[@PaulMikna]

Just love seeing the old school craftsmanship coming back around! They did this years ago with less tools and technology, so why can't we do it more these days! The added cost is worth it to me as it just creates greater value in a home. Outstanding work, Richard!

[@st6457]

Brent Hull has a lot of videos about classical design. He is an excellent teacher and uses his restorations to teach it.

[@chefsteven34]

Your craftsmanship looks amazing! I love the white oak idea, bringing multiple elements together. Regardless of what you choose, I’m here for the journey. Keep learning & elevating your skill sets. I appreciate everything you share with all of us.

[@dianeewoldt3035]

A 4 part book matched piece of white oak with burl figured grain would be a lovely understated touch for the frieze- especially if the mantle top is white oak.

[@TheSeriesofTubes]

4 piece book matched burl is anything but understated

[@dianeewoldt3035]

@@TheSeriesofTubes understated as compared to relief or convex frieze carving… Celebrate the wood grain!

[@Mike-dn4ju]

I love this growing up in a New England colonial built 1807, these are all familiar details. Uncle was a finish carpenter and used to have custom shaper profiles made to reproduce the original trim profiles for the house.

[@jimb1713]

I was hoping I’d get to see some new takes on Tudor Revival moldings, which is what your house architecture is. While I personally wouldn’t put colonial trim in my Tudor home, you are so correct that there is a dearth of good information about period correct trim.

[@VanisleNSX]

Nice work, Richard! I think that a white oak shelf top would tie the mantle and the ceiling in nicely.

[@BradKaboord]

I learned as much in this one video as 10 years of This Old House. Great work.

[@KenLayfield]

I have a bunch of architectural books by era. Mouldings mantels stairs etc.Lee Valley sold them as reprints. They still sell them.

[@kevinlucas8437]

This is really looking fantastic !!! Love classical mantles. Today's homes usually don't have the incredible millwork that many older homes do. That's why I love European countries for their craftsmanship.

[@boriken_yo1190]

Awesome mantel. I would definitely put a white oak shelf. It would pop against the white background and put a white oak freeze with some bronze or gold trim or even a gold inlay to compliment the side lamps.

[@madmastermat]

Man you are a wizard with a router, table saw and mitre saw. Love the mantle build series!

[@PatFord-d2w]

Gorgeous 😊. Wish I could hire you for my house in Knoxville . Your videos are the best on adding some sparkle to a house .

[@atsidii8607]

Making great progress, love the breakdown on how your building the whole fireplace. Love the show even more. 🎉❤ can't wait for the finish product

[@denjhill]

Wow! clearly a cut above the ordinary. Much respect.

[@VoicesUnspokenMen]

Been watching this channel since my early 20s and going into my 30s I appreciate your thinking so much more now. The use of history and books is something unique to your channel. Love it brother

[@conradhawkins1426]

I've always respected how passionate you are about what you do.

[@MulloyDIY]

Looking forward to seeing the finished product! Your work is exceptional. Because of your videos (and nagging from my wife), I was able to build a simple but beautiful mantle and coffered ceiling. These features add so much character and depth to our house. These kinds of details separate average/good from exceptional. But the mantle you’re building is next level!!

[@Inlearningmode]

Thanks!

[@evodawg]

Absolutely beautiful. Been watching you since the beginning. I'm glad to see your interest and work move you to the colonial side of finish carpentry. I'm also a finish custom carpenter.

[@rickyborden3287]

Been watching since way back when you were doing how to install base, crown etc videos. You've come such a long way since then, both with your carpentry skills and knowledge, and video production! Amazing work, and an inspiration to me for sure.

[@HumidorsandHumbuckers]

Inspiring as hell. Great Work! Marble shelf top might be nice.

[@FortressFineWoodworks]

Dude....this is looking incredible!! You are definitely inspiring me to do more research on classical architecture for future projects. One small thing I recommend is, using industrial products like envirolak for your finish will blow your mind. let me know if you want to know which ones. Awesome!

[@dubjspecialk]

Man, I have been watching you from your first year on YT. While I knew you have always been geeking out on historical carpentry, you have really taken off in this direction. I feel like you are single handedly revitalizing this craft. Nice work. I studied Historic Preservation in my first year in College. I didn't stick with it, but it really was fascinating.

[@apainlessone]

I started when You used MDF and superglue....what a transition!

[@jeromestsauver]

I love that you shared this! I had the same questions in my mind... "Is he just designing this from his head?" :)

[@jeromestsauver]

Also... are all the moldings built up using a combination of materials available at big box stores?

[@Mopardude]

I wasn't diggin the pencil modeling at first but the more it comes together the better i like it now.

[@baseball4697]

Like several of the earlier commentators, I’ve been watching your KZbin channel for quite sometime and have been interested in a fascinated by your self-education. I wonder if you would consider using one of your segments to review for us how you got started in the business and how you got to where you are today. As a retired teacher, I have to imagine that could be instructional and inspirational to younger viewers interested in this profession or even motivational to those just starting out. Thank you.

[@williamhayden3481]

The project is really coming together and it’s getting easier to see the end product. Looks Great!!

[@detroitdiy]

Thanks for sharing the information in those books. You vision is coming to life and it looks incredible!

[@ninjajeepsta]

Beautiful! Taken it to the next level on each video. Thank you for sharing.

[@tomjohnson5924]

Dude!!! Amazing and beautiful work. I'm a cabinet maker and wanna be trim guy and this is awesome. Thank you for the book insights.

[@wdiddy1]

Damn that is too strong, are people going to stand on top of that? Beautiful work Rich!

[@Danman1972]

Great build and detail. Stacked and every piece adds dimension and is meaningful. Nice research and classic build.

[@kg2995]

Great job documenting this build.

[@michaelhested2141]

I absolutely love the work you are doing here!! Kudos and keep up the amazing work.

[@anthonysmith9410]

You are just amazing! So into this mantle build…the dedication is just beautiful.

[@thomasseiler233]

Once again, I am blown away by your amazing patience, skills and care. Bravo!

[@georgiafan6618]

Omg soffits are super gorgeous. You’re killing it! Who do you trust is going to caulk and fill in all those big holes? What medium will you plan to use to ensure the surfaces are smooth? Awesome trim only proves that there is a God! Great job. 👏

[@T.E.P..]

Superb attention to details ... which you always do ... however this is next level and inspiring ... Happy New Year! Thanks for all of the years of vids it's been a huge delight being subbed all this time when you were below 100k subs. 526k subs. Saturday January 13, 2024

[@AdamSantorelli]

Hey man, great job love the build so far! Keep doing great things. Any way you can tell me the books you have? I would be very interested in looking them up! Thanks !

[@tomblanco8234]

I've been watching your videos since the early days of DFW Crown. Your videos inspired me to put up crown molding in my house. You have come a long, long way since that time and you were quite good back then. It's a good thing I don't have a fireplace, I don't think I could keep up with what you are doing now. Cheers!