Painting Fireplace Mantle

One of my first posts was showing how I whitewashed our brick fireplace. However, I didn't paint the mantle at that time because I wasn't sure if I wanted it white or not. After living with it for a few months, I decided I wanted to paint that white too. So now, here is phase 2 of our fireplace makeover!

Phase 3 involves getting rid of the insert.. but I'm nervous about trying to move that, so it's staying for now.

These are the paints I used for this little job.

The ProClassic is what we originally used for the trim. It's a bit pricey, but it really does have a great glossy shine. I had enough to do this, so I figured I'd make sure the mantle was done with the good stuff. ;) And since I knew this was going to be a focal point in the room, I wanted it to be extra special. This paint levels very well, better than the paint I got at Lowes. Even with a brush, it gives a very even finish.

And as a reminder, here is what the fireplace has looked like for the past few months.

Tyler and I cannot figure out how this thing is connected to the fireplace. So it hasn't moved. Thankfully we do like its shape, so we feel no desire to replace it.

I taped off the brick behind it. Because being careful with paint is not a strength I possess.

Obviously I didn't bother taping when I painted the brick... Shhhhh.......

2 coats of primer later, I called it a night. I decided to do this around 9pm.  Brilliant planning, eh?

And this morning, I popped open the enamel and started making it shiny! @_@ I love shiny white wood. It just looks so classic and goes with most every decorating style I can think of.

For now, the fireplace feels "done." At least until I get up the nerve to do something about the insert...

Please forgive the cords. Tyler lives here too, after all. =P