Turning a Hobby Into a Job: DIY to Professional Electric Fireplace Wall Builder

July 15, 2025

Touchstone Sideline 50 Smart Electric Fireplace in custom surround wall by @modernmichelledesigns

A few years ago, DIYer Michelle @modmichelledesigns created a Roman Clay electric fireplace surround featuring a Touchstone Sideline® Smart Electric Fireplace with her best friend during a productive girls’ weekend. Since then, Michelle has grown her love for building electric fireplace walls into a lucrative job.

“The first project taught me a lot, especially about how to create a custom, high-end look without overcomplicating the process or using more materials than necessary,” Michelle shares.

Choosing the Right Electric Fireplace Size

“I also learned how important it is to choose the right size unit for the space - it makes all the difference in how balanced and intentional the final design feels. Once I got the cuts and framing down, it really became a push-and-play process. The clean, simple design gave me so much flexibility to match different styles, and honestly, it was so satisfying to build that I couldn’t wait to do it again!”

Touchstone Sideline 50 Electric Fireplace surround wall installation by @modernmichelledesigns

Michelle took all the lessons she learned from her first project and applied them to her most recent project, an electric fireplace surround for her sister.

To start, Michelle builds the electric fireplace surround frame with plywood. Next, she sands, paints and finishes the frame. With careful planning, the Touchstone Sideline 50 80004 Smart Electric Fireplace fits perfectly in the opening. Watch the transformation highlights reel on Instagram: @modmichelledesigns.

Electric Fireplace Surround Wall progression with Touchstone Sideline 50 Smart Electric Fireplace @modmichelledesigns

Installing The Sideline 50® Smart Electric Fireplace

Why The Sideline® 50 Is the Best Fit

Michelle's reason for choosing the Sideline 50? It has a perfect fit, modern aesthetic, and plenty of settings to customize the ambience.

She explains, “The size is super versatile. It’s big enough to make a statement but not so huge that it overwhelms the space. I love the sleek, modern look, and the flame settings are really cool too. It works with so many different styles, so it’s kind of my go-to pick when I want something that looks great and just works.”

The Sideline

Why This New Pro Prefers the Touchstone® Brand

Michelle notes the high quality features of the Touchstone® brand. “Funny enough, I first came across Touchstone by accident. A friend asked me to tile her fireplace, and she had already ordered one to install. I didn’t think much of it at the time, but later I tried using a random off-brand unit on another project, and I instantly regretted it. Then I stumbled on Touchstone again and realized, this is the one. The quality, the features, and the overall look are just on point. Plus, their selection is solid - there’s something for almost every space and style."

@modmichelledesigns completed Touchstone Electric Fireplace custom surround

Tips For Building an Electric Fireplace Accent Wall

Would you like to tackle your own DIY fireplace wall project? Michelle offers some handy advice:

"Plan more than you think you need to. Start by figuring out your end goal - from there, gather inspiration and sketch out your layout.
Make sure you understand the materials you’ll be working with - things like the type of electric fireplace insert you're wanting to install, surface prep, and proper support are huge.
Measure carefully (then double-check), and don’t rush your timeline.
Invest in the right tools!

And finally, don’t be afraid to take your time or pivot mid-project. Some of the best creative decisions happen in the middle of the mess, speaking from experience.”

"Part Art, Part Puzzle, Part Magic"

Thrilled by the momentum of her latest projects, Michelle is ready to take on more work, sharpen her skills, and invent new creative ideas.

“There’s nothing like taking a blank space and turning it into something that makes people stop and say, ‘That’s it - that’s exactly what I was picturing!’ I know how it feels to have a vision in your head, but no idea how to actually make it happen. So being the person who gets to bring that to life for someone else? It never gets old. It’s creative, it’s challenging, and it’s deeply personal every time. And honestly, I just love the process - from the first rough sketch to the final “wow” moment. It’s part art, part puzzle, and part magic...and I’m hooked.