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One of the easiest ways to bring the spirit of the holiday
season into your home is probably one of the oldest. Since colonial times (and
far before) the fireplace has been the center of the home, the gathering place
for warmth, meals and light. Even today the fireplace is the focal point in
many living areas. Whether classic and traditional brick and white wood, or
oversized field stone fireplace with a mahogany mantel, each has its own
personality and can be decorated in hundreds of ways.
We've chosen a few
of our favorite ideas, some of which can be made from everyday items found in
any home. In general though, here are some general hints to help you find your
own festive style… |
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- Err on the side of over-scale rather
than under-scale when placing objects on the mantel.
- Group smaller things together.
- Try to add fresh greens or seasonal
flowers whenever you can.
- Display collections like pewter plates,
sea shells, wooden boxes or even found objects on your mantel.
- Hang a wreath on top of a mantel
mirror, or prop a painting in front of it for added interest.
- Always be careful to not allow items to
hang near the open flame of a fire.
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| Making the decoration personal is
important too. Simple photos of your kids taken annually, all framed
identically can be a celebration of your family that all will enjoy when
displayed with simple greens and ornaments. |
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