How to Paint a Fireplace Centerpiece

Paint the fireplace mantel in a style that contrasts with the walls to make the centerpiece standout. Study the colors you have in the room that accent the color of the wall and choose the color that appeals to you the most for the mantel. The accenting color can be as pronounced or as subtle as you like. If you have a red wall, for example, contrasting mantel colors can include yellow or a dark brown stain. An example of a subtle contrast includes painting a mantel a soft yellow color to accent a light blue wall.

Alternatively, paint the mantel in a color that matches the wall. While the color doesn't have to be exact, the idea is to go with a monochromatic look. A monochromatic centerpiece allows the focus to be on the items you place on top of the mantel, such as pictures, a painting or items you want to show off.

Create an accent wall using the same wall as the fireplace. However, only use this idea if the wall isn't wide and you don't have a mantel, or the accent wall may overpower the room, depending on the color. The ideal types of fireplaces to use are later models that you can inset into a wall. Because they generally come with their own frames, painting the wall around a fireplace insert in an accent color will call attention to the centerpiece

Create a rustic or shabby chic look. Make a fireplace mantel look antique or distressed by painting it white or another light color, allowing the paint to dry and sanding off the majority of the paint before applying a clear sealer. You can also use a whitewash or a light-colored wood stain in a nontraditional color to create the same effect.

Paint a work of art on the wall above a fireplace. Show off your artistic talents and highlight the fireplace by painting an image above the fireplace and highlighting it with a wooden frame. Use acrylic paints and wash the wall before painting on it to remove oils and dust.