A year in the life of Daisy's fireplace

When I first moved into my new home nearly a year ago now

there was something missing.

The lounge lacked a focal point and the wall lights were

placed in a very strange arrangement on the wall.

It screamed fireplace to me but there was no chimney

and very little budget to play with.

Christmas was on the horizon and I really wanted a mantel to dress.

Hmmmm....

Then I found this in a charity shop.

I didn't know quite how I was going to make it work or fit

but it was a steal so I thought I would give it a try.

Steve helped me collect it and he drove it home in the snow 

with the boot open!

Bless!

It then had a makeover.

First an undercoat, as it was a tad shiny.

Then a couple of coats of Farrow & Ball and it was ready to assemble.

I looked at fireplace plinths but they were really expensive 

and at the end of the day I wasn't entirely sure this whole idea

would work or if I would like it long term.

So I went to B & Q and asked a very nice man

to cut me a piece of thick MDF to the correct size 

and also a piece to sit at the back of the fireplace frame.

I painted the plinth with a black metallic finish paint.

It worked a treat and I was thrilled with it

but there was still the issue of what to fill the hole with.

(Please also note that I had to check that the Christmas tree would

fit in the corner too!  

Priorities!)

So with my new found drill skills I hung a mirror on the wall

and attached the fireplace to the wall so it wouldn't suddenly fall over.

(I can tell you're impressed!)

Then I went for a rummage in my sewing room upstairs 

for just the right bit of fabric to cover the back board.

I found this!

It was the perfect size too.

Whoever made this so many years ago

stopped at just the right time.

Put it away and never made it into anything.

I wonder if she knew...

that I would treasure every stitch ...

even the tacking ones?

It worked!

I loved it!

It made the room feel warm even though

it didn't give off any heat.

I have played all year with it.

Dressing it as the seasons changed.

Adding bits here and there.

Yes, lots of playing and...

hello Dan I didn't see you there!

 Here we are in autumn.

'I'm going now' and 'Looking for clouds'

are living amongst the old books with Owl.

Jessies book keeps them company.

I hope you enjoyed the visit.

The Arkletts bid you farewell.

I wish you the best of days.

Love

Daisy

xxx