Fall is a season of change. A coolness in the air enters our lives and we feel refreshed. The upcoming Holidays bring emotions of joy, anticipation and sometimes anxiety. It is easy to become overwhelmed by all the tasks that are getting ready to encompass our lives. Don't let your happiness be dimmed by decorating, cooking, and buying holiday gifts. Sometimes, simplicity is your best friend.
If your storage space is limited you can easily use disposable items such as branches, processed flowers, pumpkins, gourds, and dried ears of corn. Simply toss everything in the trash when the holiday ends, no need for containers or attic space.
Decorating your home begins with identifying a focal point location. For this blog your fireplace mantle will be our destination.
1. Choose a color scheme and theme.
Will you want a natural, traditional, vintage or modern look? Your choice may feel as if it does not match your current decor, sometimes that's a good thing. Maybe you want to include a trendy new color. Feel free to explore new and different ideas. The mantle is a small space that will allow you the freedom to experiment.
2. Gather your materials.
Locate items from your past decorating endeavors and give them a new life. Purchase something new that expresses your style this year. Visit thrift shops and flea markets to find unique special objects. Your items do not need to be expensive. The Hundredth Monkey's store will be online soon to help with all of your decorating needs.
3. Start placing your items on the mantle.
You may have a preconceived notion of how you wish your finished mantle to appear.
Don't put up roadblocks and always stick with a plan. You may become inspired to change your ideas and go in a new direction once your creativity begins to flow.
Place your garland first, I usually like when it cascades off the mantle and down the sides of the fireplace. Seasonal garlands are always available at shops like Hobby Lobby and Michael's Craft Store. These garlands are quick, easy and cost effective. They fill in a lot of space and act as an anchor for floral stems, greenery, branches and ribbon that you may decide to add.
Now, place your statement piece. This item will determine where everything else is placed.
When you look at your mantle your eye should be moved both vertically and horizontally.
Your gaze should not be blocked or interrupted by a single item. To encourage movement items of interest should vary in color, height and texture. Candle sticks are always an easy way to add and vary heights. Purchase colored candles to reinforce your color scheme and add another layer of interest.
Begin filling in any spaces that appear empty with smaller items or greenery.
Step back and view your masterpiece.
I end up tweaking my mantle almost every time I pass by. I have also been known to find a cool piece that begs to be included after the initial design was thought to be complete. Simply add it and make slight adjustments. Injecting new life into your existing design will only add to its beauty.
Here is a traditional mantle I did for a client this year.
Traditional colors instantly transport you to the seasons of Fall and Thanksgiving. It really makes one want to grab a pumpkin spice latte and chunky knit blanket to enjoy next to the fire.
A garland composed of leaves, pumpkins and pine cones is placed first. A large metal platter of copper and faded silver is placed as the focal point. Brass candlesticks of varying heights anchor the ends. You can mix different metals in your design. Their varying patinas will compliment each other and prevent your mantle from becoming boring.
Feathers and glitter pumpkins are added as fillers. A few sprigs of metallic leaves finish the look. Thirty minutes has changed the look and feel of not only the fireplace but the entire room. I hope this small mantle space may inspire you to move on to other holiday decor adventures.
Happy Thanksgiving and Many Blessings to you and your family.
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