Fall Mantle Love

Awww… fall is upon us; my favorite time of year! It’s only been about 3 years that I’ve started decorating for fall and I have to say I love it. I tend to be one of those “go all out” folks, so I’m really trying to control myself. I also try to update and add each year so it’s not the same-o same-o. Have you noticed a little trend on the blogs and in magazines? It’s blue – who knew? It took me a minute, but I think I really like it, so I added a little blue too.

{The Piano Mantle}

We actually don’t use the piano anymore (the darling quit lessons) but, I have kept it because I like to decorate the mantle on top – is that silly?

TIP: When decorating a specific area, like a mantle, take everything off and start from scratch. I always think in terms of layering.  I usually go in this order:

Step #1: Base – use a runner or place-mat - something to “build” from. I like using some type of fabric or burlap to soften the look and add texture.

Step #2: Place your largest piece first and build around it (usually in the center). I have an old trunk I like to use. In my before picture (for spring and summer) I use it closed and put things on top of it; for fall and Christmas I open it up and fill it.

It may seem like it would take a lot to “fill” the trunk, which I why I cheat. I used paper wadded (is that a word?) up on the bottom and place the items on top – that way I don’t need as much “stuff”. SHHHH!

The fillers I use are leaves, pumpkins and various fall items I’ve collected along the way. This is where I added a touch of blue, I had actually painted a couple of blue pumpkins last year (maybe I was actually ahead of the trend..lol).

Step #3: I love using set’s of 2 to balance out each side (of course this is optional); I almost always start with a set of 2 larger items if they fit the space.

 Step #4: To garland or not to garland, that is the question? I happen to like garland however, I try hard to not make things look too “fakey”. I picked this piece up last year at JoAnne Fabrics; I’ve found I have to invest a little extra cash to get nice looking garland. Layer your garland around your large pieces.

Step #5: Use unique pieces to fill in the gaps. I happen to love dishes, so of course I added a couple of fall plates I found at Goodwill (I always scour thrift shops for beautiful dishes). Using smaller pieces that you LOVE adds your personality and gives your decor some character. Don’t be afraid to think outside of the box and be original.

I actually have these beautiful plates scattered around the house!

I like to buy something new every year add it to the mix. This year I found this adorable owl at HomeGoods. I put him on a candlestick too make sure see him up there. Isn’t he cute?

Step #6: Step back and take a look! Find accessories to balance the area (think in terms of bookends, something to close the ends so to speak).  These items do not have to be the same but, should be similar in size – again think balance.

Have you noticed the changes from picture to picture? It’s because I play with the set up forever moving things around until I end up with something I like and then I STILL end up changing it.  After standing back and looking at it, I decided the mantle needed one more thing: LIGHTS! You may be thinking lights are just for Christmas decor, maybe they are, but I like them and they make me smile!

Here’s how I finally left it – I took the picture at night so you could get an idea of how the lights look.

Love you more than blue fall decor, Christmas lights and pumpkins, 

Sunday