How To

How to Decorate a Country Christmas Mantel

Contributor
By eHow Contributing Writer
(8 Ratings)

A country Christmas mantel can fit with almost any type of casual decor, from lodge and cottage looks to eclectic and ethnic. Here are some ideas.

Difficulty: Easy
Instructions

Things You'll Need:

  • Evergreens Sprigs
  • Raffia
  • Ribbons
  • Christmas Wreaths
  • Calico Fabrics
  • Candleholders
  • Candles
  • Jingle Bells
  • Narrow Christmas Centerpieces
  • Quilts
  • Table Runners
  • Apples
  • Pears
  • Place Mats
  • Burlap
  • Twine
  • Twine
  • Candles
  • Apples
  1. Step 1

    Lay a textile runner in Christmas colors along the top of your mantel. This could be a small quilt, hemmed calico fabric, or simply fringed burlap. You can anchor other decorations atop this runner.

  2. Step 2

    Find or purchase a rustic-looking centerpiece for your mantel. Think about country-style collectibles you may already have - they can often be embellished for Christmas. A rustic teddy bear, brass deer sculpture, or beautiful pinecone-filled basket, for instance, can be dressed with a jingle-bell bow to sit atop the mantel.

  3. Step 3

    Buy and set out a series of small wreaths made from grapevine. These can stand in a row all the way across your mantel in place of a centerpiece. If you wish, swag and loop a wide ribbon through the tops of the wreaths, perhaps joining two lengths of ribbon into a bow at the center.

  4. Step 4

    Gather small accessories to complement your centerpiece or wreath display. For accessories, fetching looks include a row of red pears and/or apples; a row of clear-glass matching votive candleholders, each tied with a raffia or twine bow; or perhaps a series of brass, copper or pewter taper candleholders embellished with sprigs of holly or bows.

  5. Step 5

    Flank the ends of the mantel and the centerpiece with evergreens such as holly or pine, if desired.

Tips & Warnings
  • Don't skimp on candles or fruit, should you use them generously in your display. You want your mantel to project a sense of abundance.
  • Keep combustible materials away from the candles' open flames.

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