Learn how to transform inexpensive, lightweight boards into elegant wood beams that look just like reclaimed timber.

Examine your ceiling to identify joists, lights, and other obstructions you’ll need to work around.

Once you’ve decided on the layout, screw 14 boards across the length of your ceiling.

large open great room brick fireplace

Credit: Paul Dyer

These will act as your guide.

Attach the boards at the joists with 4-inch screws.

Fill in nail holes with wood filler, then distress andstain the boxfor a rustic look.

large open great room brick fireplace

Credit: Paul Dyer

Repeat until you have enough boxes to span the length of your ceiling.

These boxes will be your ceiling beams.

Spray paint them before installing to create the look of oil-rubbed bronze.

assembling rustic beam whitewood boards

Credit: Courtesy of Jenna Diermann

Slide the strap over the beam and screw into place.

creating rusting ceiling beam

Credit: Courtesy of Jenna Diermann

covering wood beam seams metal strips

Credit: Courtesy of Jenna Diermann