How to Make a Mantel Out of Red Cedar

Cut a piece of solid red cedar wood into a plank measuring 8 inches thick, 12 inches wide and 48 inches long using a circular saw.

Sand the entire red cedar plank using an electric sander with a coarse-grain sanding belt. This removes any splintering, roughness and uneven texture from the red cedar plank.

Sand the plank again using the electric sander with a medium-grain sanding belt to smooth the surface of the plank.

Sand the plank a third time using the electric sander with a fine-grain sanding belt. This will make the plank sleek and soft to the touch.

Wipe off the red cedar plank using a washcloth to remove any sawdust and debris caused by the sanding.

Pour wood stain into a paint tray, then soak the end of a sponge brush in the wood stain. Select any stain shade that you prefer.

Apply the wood stain in an even layer over the entire surface of the red cedar mantel, then allow the stain to dry for 12 to 18 hours.

Pour clear wood polyurethane into another paint tray, then coat the end of a 3-inch flat paintbrush by placing it into the polyurethane.

Apply the polyurethane in a thin, even layer over the entire red cedar mantel. Allow the mantel to dry for 12 to 18 hours before installing it over your fireplace.