Petersburg, Mi - Making a Mantle Part II

Ok, we've made some firm decisions on the mantle, and I can proceed with the project. The next thing I need to do to the mantle is prep it for hanging. In addition to the corbels, I plan to use a French Cleat. These pictures show the prep work involved to make the mantle ready for the cleat. If you want to know how a French Cleat works, follow this link. I need to route out the backside of the mantle so that the cleat will be hidden and the mantle will sit all the way against the wall.
I've made basically a cradle to hold the mantle steady, and also to give my router a place to ride. I've put some stops in place so I can't over cut the recess. By taking out a little bit at a time, I'm able to end up with a nice recess that will hold and hide the cleat! With a little clean up I'll be ready to start the staining and finishing!