- 1). Remove old paint with a scraper and wire brush, if necessary. You don't need to scrape all the way down to the brick or wood, you just need to remove any flaking or chipped paint and smooth the surface for an even paint job.
- 2). Vacuum the area to remove any dust and paint debris. Make sure the area is thoroughly clean and dry before you begin to paint.
- 3). Apply a primecoat with brushes or rollers. Most primers can be used on brick, wood or concrete fireplaces. Check the manufacturer's instructions if in doubt. The primecoat will give you a truer paint color and provides a smooth, even base. Allow to dry completely.
- 4). Paint the fireplace with two thin coats of black paint. Allow to dry between coats. Two thin coats will adhere better than one thick coat and the intensity of the color will be greater.
- 5). Allow the paint to cure completely, sometimes up to a week depending on the paint, before adding decorations or placing objects on the mantle.
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