Why is that decorating a mantle can feel intimidating sometimes? Well, if you are also not sure what to put on your mantle at the holidays, you are in good company! I feel the same way some years. This year was no exception; It took a lot of trial and error to decorate our Christmas mantle. Hopefully this post will save you some time by providing inspiration as well as links to shop the post so you can check this holiday task off your to do list!
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This post is all about Christmas mantle ideas.
Christmas Mantle Decor Ideas
To decorate my fireplace mantle, I started with artificial Norfolk pine garland. The one I purchased comes as a set of 4 (but it’s also available as a set of 2). I used two on my mantle and two on the railing. Doubling the garland makes it look more full as well as gives you more length if you don’t completely overlap them.
For the past few years, I have placed my garland asymmetrically and decided to do the same this year. I just like the vibe – and also how it balances the tree that is in the corner near the fireplace.
To get this look, I started by placing one piece of garland centered on the mantle. Then, I added a second piece of garland overlapping only half of the first piece – so the end of the second piece is near the center of the mantle and the other is hanging down the side – and used a twist tie to attach them to each other. They were anchored in place with hooks* on either end and one or two spots in the middle. Lastly, I fluffed and filled in gaps with cedar stems, also using twist ties to attach them to the garland, and pulled some of the garland forward so it created a swooping effect.
*Test the hooks to be sure they don’t take off the finish of your mantle.
Next, on the corner with more garland, I used the hook to attach a bell garland. Then, I tied a bow out of this pretty caramel velvet ribbon and attached it to the the top of the bells with a twist tie. This ribbon is stunning in person and looks very high end. I had enough for both the mantle and railing. If you want longer bow tails, then you might consider getting two rolls.
Next, I slid stocking holders under the garland near the bells. I’ve had these low-profile holders for years. I personally like that they blend right into the mantle and aren’t a decor piece in and of themselves. The knit stockings are also a long-time favorite in our house – especially by my three daughters because A LOT can get stuffed into them since they are stretchy :).
Lastly, I added three candle stick holders to the right side of the mantle along with burgundy taper candles, and wove in some twinkling LED lights to add a bit of glow and ambiance.
Christmas Railing Garland
Moving on to the railing, I also used two pieces of garland for this project and attached them together in a similar way as the mantle. I love the drape-y effect the long garland gives on our stairs.
Then, similarly to the mantle, I added cedar stems throughout the garland for a little more interest and texture in the greenery.
Since I used mercury glass ornaments on my tree, I thought adding a touch of that to the railing decor would be a nice way to create continuity. I am so happy with this garland and the richness it brings to this space. At the time of writing, it’s low stock, so here is a similar mercury glass garland for you to consider.
Next, again for the sake of visual continuity with the mantle decorations – and because I happen to love both velvet and bows! – I added a bow to the railing.
Lastly, I also wove LED twinkling lights throughout the railing garland. Because the railing is also in our living room where the Christmas tree and fireplace mantle are, the ambient light from all three works together to make a super cozy space.
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