How to Paint a Stone Fireplace – An Easy DIY Project

If you’ve been here awhile, you’re probably not surprised to see that tackling the stone fireplace was the very first project in my new house! This space had a goldish brown stone fireplace that just felt so tired and outdated. Painting it black created an instant update and transformed the entire look. In previous homes, I tackled both a brick fireplace and tile fireplace, so this project continues my fireplace makeover quest! With just a little prep and patience, it’s really simple to paint a stone fireplace and create a dramatic impact.

how to paint a stone fireplace
Painted Stone Fireplace in Tricorn Black

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outdated stone fireplace

BEFORE: Here’s what I was working with – a very drab and outdated stone fireplace. While I typically love earthy colors and natural materials, this fireplace just felt a little off. The colors a little too peach for me. Plus, it’s a small shape so I hoped painting would add some visual impact and size.

DIY painted fireplace supplies

Painted Stone Fireplace Supplies

  • TSP Cleaning Kit (so important to clean off all the grime! Even if you don’t think it’s that dirty. This stuff is heavy duty so use gloves and follow directions closely)
  • Zinsser Water Based Primer (crucial step to seal off porous stone material)
  • FrogTape Painters Tape (this one is my favorite for crisp lines)
  • Tricorn Black Interior Latex Paint from Sherwin Williams in Matte Finish, (it’s more expensive than many paints, but I always choose their Emerald paint line -it’s so thick and creates the perfect matte look)

How to Paint a Stone Fireplace

  1. Scrub stone with TSP mixture (and be amazed at all the unknown grime that comes off…)
  2. Tape off surrounding area – I chose to paint part of the trim to create a wider visual look for this narrow fireplace
  3. Apply prime coat to seal stone material – I used two coats of primer as the stone really soaked up the first coat
Iron Ore vs Tricorn Black
Paint Options: Sherwin Williams Iron Ore (top) vs. Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black (bottom)

I debated between Sherwin Williams Iron Ore (top) vs. Sherwin Williams Tricorn Black (bottom) – both two of my favorite paints!

While the Iron Ore would have been much darker with a second coat, I went with Tricorn Black for a more dramatic effect and to closely match the insert. Tricorn Black is a neutral, true black.

black painted stone fireplace
  1. Paint stone fireplace with high quality paint brush (I love this one) – although paint rollers are a great time saver, using a brush was really helpful for getting into all the nooks and crannies. I went with TWO coats and a few touch ups in difficult areas.
stone fireplace painted black
Side view of painted stone fireplace – the black really makes it feel more polished and modern.

I really love the black (I mean, when have I not?), but if I wanted a more natural, slate look, the Iron Ore paint would’ve been a good choice for that effect. Curious about paint colors? Check out my Neutral Paint Color Guide.

how to paint a stone fireplace black

Voila! I love how this painted stone fireplace completely elevates the entire room! If you’re looking for more fireplace inspiration – check out my Whitewashed Fireplace post and the Tile Fireplace Makeover. Plus, I created a round up of 7 Easy Home Updates Under $200 for more ideas.