It usually seems after all of the holiday decorations are put away, the house is kind of like a blank canvas to work with. I love the holidays and the decorating ..."and always over decorate" is what my hubby might say! But, when all of that is put away and out of sight, I feel like it would certainly be sad to do nothing, and so unlike me as well!
So, since it is still winter ...much to my dismay! And to keep me from the winter...blahs. I just added some simple touches to carry me through to the next couple of holidays coming up, and until Spring.
I must admit I did have to show some real restraint while browsing the left-over after-Christmas goodies that were on sale. I mean I had to seriously talk to myself sternly and say "NO! ... you don't need anything else right now!" ...I know the hubby is not believing that for a second, but it's true!
Although ...there were some other things that were definite must-haves ...so I did get those! I mean a gal's gotta do, what a gal's gotta do! ...Right?
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I found these simple glass vases at Michael's and thought they would easily be multi-purpose, and so to start with decided to use them in this way.
Glass cylinder vases, curly sticks, and some ribbon (all for under a twenty), had me saying "I can't wait to get home and put these together! Now I have something new to look at on the mantel.
I was very pleased with finding the bronze colored ribbon, and the idea sprang from there. I just wrapped the two different ribbons around the vase, and tied the top one into a bow, securing them both in place. I had some pretty pearl craft pins and I cut them down to tuck-in for a little extra somethin'! I stopped short of adding Epsom salt to the vases, I've seen that done by using it in the bottom of glass vases with some branches it them and it resembles snow, adding a winter look to them. White sand could also be used for a similar look.
I was pleased with the finished result of these, especially after I put two of them together.
Often less is more! The fireplace and mantel are an important focal point to the room. I like changing the mantel, although it is a small space there are big possibilities! It's a blank canvas to work with, and easy to re-work as well.
This is a clean and simple look that I can add to. But, for now it is just enough, and it has a winter feel to me. Adding new decor for 'little cost' is what I am always looking for, and it's nice to have a change of scenery, too. It feels like a nice fresh start. I like adding different, or even unusual items to my candelabra. I think it makes it even more interesting sometimes.
...And it's another great way to 'display' items as well! Rather than having five of the same glass candle holders, I only used the two, and displayed a few balls from my decorative ball assortment instead.
I did choose to add a few more things to the mantle, and once again it's more free decorating with items that I had around the house. Gold plates and two of my Willow Tree statues. I like the additional items to fill-up the blank spaces! It's the love of decorating within me ...and, it is a woman's prerogative to change her mind! {giggles} I can easily take this look on into Spring!
I still had some pine cones, candles, and plants around, and I have items that were either packed away or in a another room, also some items that I've had for a long time or that I have made. So using all of that is no-cost decorating! That's always good. I find that I always have to have some greenery, I suppose it is because it reminds me of spring and summer, when everything is fresh and alive with color. Whether real or artificial, some plants or greenery is a must!
This tin basket was a must-have for sure, and thanks to my 40% off one item coupon too! And, not only is it perfectly me, it can be changed simply by using different fillings! Plus I like the low profile of it to hang between the front door and storm door! I tucked in some faux evergreens and berries, adding to the winter decor.
The dining area sits on the ready with a fresh clean look for now. Simple and easy with what was on hand, and as to not have it be un-decorated, un-noticed, or un-loved.
Placing three square placemats diagonally down the center of the table creates a quick table runner, and more no-cost decorating since they are items I already had on hand.
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One of the things I really like about neutral decor, is it's easy to inject color and make changes quite simply. And you can make a big impact with just a little color too. It will be easy to add a little color here over the next couple months as well. I also like neutral decor because it offers me a cohesive look, room to room, especially when the rooms are open to each other as is part of my homes floor plan. It flows well from one room to the other.
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I'm so glad we usually have more of a mild winter here in the south, which has been the case so far for this one. I'm hopeful that will continue for a little longer and this season will pass quickly!
We'll be staying cozy and warm for now, hope you are too!...
Warm Hugs,
