Picked up the supplies and got to work.
Home depot guy suggested the use of a product there called "Stucco Patch". I'm going to use a 3/4" x 3/4" tile trowel. We'll see what kind of mess I get into. Yikes.
The Supplies
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Partway through, couldn't wait and tossed some of the tile on top.
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Frame Complete
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So the plan is to use some concrete backer board on the sides, then stucco and paint over top. Then I'll tile the top. Hopefully it comes together alright.
Now I need to head out and buy the hole saws on sale at CT. Always needed an excuse to buy those. Will cut out area for around the fireplace insert.