Preparation

• 1). Scrub the fireplace with a stiff-bristled brush and warm, soapy water.
  
  
• 2). Measure the height and width of the fireplace's face and sides and write down these measurements. Cut a series of 1-by-2 furring strips the same height as the fireplace.
  
  
• 3). Draw straight, vertical chalk lines 16 inches apart from one another on the face and sides of the fireplace.
  
  
• 4). Fit a hammer drill with a carbide drill tip. Line up a furring strip with the first chalk line. Drill a hole through the furring strip and into the masonry 2 inches from the top of the fireplace and 2 inches from the bottom. Continue setting up furring strips and drilling holes along each chalk line until you reach the opposite corner. Do this on all three sides of the fireplace.
  
  
• 5). Set the drilled furring strips aside. Fit a plastic screw sleeve in each masonry hole. Line up a furring strip with the first series of holes. Install a concrete screw through each hole in the furring strip then into the plastic screw sleeve beneath. Screw all of the furring strips into place the same way.
  
  

Installing the Drywall

• 1). Cut the drywall into sheets that fit the fireplace's measurements on all three sides.
  
  
• 2). Apply a line of construction adhesive to each furring strip on one side of the fireplace. Press the drywall sheet firmly into place over the furring strips. Nail the drywall into the furring strips. Repeat the process on each side of the fireplace.
  
  
• 3). Cut two pieces of corner bead the same height as the fireplace. Slide a corner bead strip into place over each corner where two drywall sheets meet. Nail the corner bead into place over the drywall on each side. Cover each corner bead with drywall tape.
  
  
• 4). Mix the joint compound according to the manufacturer's directions. If the manufacturer did not include instructions, continue adding water and mixing the compound until it reaches the consistency of mayonnaise.
  
  
• 5). Spread a generous amount of joint compound over each corner of the fireplace with a wide trowel. Scrape away any excess compound to leave the corners smooth.
  
  
• 6). Spread joint compound over the nails that secure the drywall to the furring strips. Scrape away any excess with the trowel. Let the joint compound dry overnight. Paint the drywall as desired.