I really love having a mantel to decorate for the holidays. There’s just something cozy about a fireplace and garland, stockings and ornaments and twinkle lights.
But I’m still learning what works for this space. I think our holiday mantel this year is better than ever.
The “Woodward window” is still displayed, which was created from an original window from our first home. It’s a permanent fixture at our home.
I added the two red berry wreaths from the picture rail for a little balance and height. These were hand-me-downs from my in-laws.
Then, I just added lots of texture with great natural-looking garland (hand-me-down from my in-laws), berries, sparkly ornaments (hand-me-downs from my mom), lanterns, and my mom’s crystal candlesticks filled with peppermint striped candles. The candles were a happy surprise when I opened a Christmas bin. I bought them on super sale after the holidays and forgot about them.
The Christmas memories book has space to record memories and Christmas cards from every year.
Then, there are the stockings. The three big stockings were purchased a few years ago. I was able to get the two little stockings for the pugs that match almost perfectly at Target this year, when one of the past stockings needed to be given to Henry.
Then, I wanted to label the stockings this year. I don’t want Santa to be confused when he’s loading my stocking with goodies and the dogs’ with coal.
But, I wasn’t ready to commit to monogramming. Should it be Ryan and Kim? Or mom and dad? What if I hate the way it looks and want to change it?
So, until I commit, I decided to get crafty and make personalized hang tags. I loved the monogram stockings at Red Envelope and decided to use them as my loose inspiration.
I added the full name cut from black cardstock, which I attached to the letter. Then, I just added a little red yarn. To attach the monogram to the stocking, I gently stitched the card to the knitted stocking. It won’t be difficult to remove if I change my mind. I like how the new monograms turned out. And if I change my mind next year, it’ll be a snap to change.
So that is our homespun holiday mantel. It’s not a bad view at all from my perch on the comfy chair (oooo… and there’s some of my trees. More to come on those.)
Did you like this post?
We'd love to send you more inspiration and encouragement for your home. When you sign up below, we'll send you our free guide to save thousands on your next home project. Because your home shouldn't own you.
portland oregon realtor says
Hi, I do believe this is an excellent web site.
I stumbledupon it 😉 I may come back once again since I saved as a favorite it.
Money and freedom is the best way to change, may you be rich and
continue to guide others.
Rozella Dixon says
I would like to thank you for the efforts you have made in writing this article. I am hoping the same best work from you in the future as well.
kitchen and bath remodel Vail, Colorado
Gabbi @ Retro Ranch Reno says
I love how you decided to monogram, but without the commitment. It was such a creative idea! 🙂
Swimming pool supplies Texas says
Wow really a great post. I like this.I just passed this onto a colleague who was doing a little research on that.
Swimming pool supplies dallas says
I’m really impressed with your article, such great information you mentioned here, thanks for your sharing and waiting to see your future posts.
outdoor activities Colorado says
This is very nice post ! I will bookmark this blog
Plumbing Edwards, CO says
I like this site..Its nice and it gave us lots of ideas.. Thanks for sharing great info. about home products.
Kelly @ Corner of Main says
Your mantel is gorgeous! The stockings look really cute with the new tags, and that tree to the left is perfect. I have my stocking from childhood which says Kelly, but I never thought about making one that says Mom…hum…now I don’t know what to do, lol.
youresomartha says
Um, LOVE this! I like how you made store bought stockings homemade and personal. The yarn is such a cute touch.
Jo says
It’s gorgeous!
Emily says
Like always it looks amazing! Can’t wait to seethe rest 🙂
Allie @ Groovy Wine Lips! says
Love that the pugs have stockings! And that they’re stuffed with coal. 😉 Tootie’s too!! Your mantle rocks! It’s warm and festive and has that Kim je ne sais quoi! A beautiful living room view!
Ashley@AttemptsAtDomestication says
I love your mantel! It’s so full and festive! I really love your stockings too! That cable-knit sweater look is so pretty, the tags go great with them!
Amy@BuffaloRoam says
I LIKE it! Very cute. Love the stockings.. and the tree… and the snowman.. and all of it.
Lyndsey says
Your decorations are so pretty! I think the stockings are adorable and love the red berry wreaths!
xoxo,
Lyndsey
http://www.theeyelinermanifesto.blogspot.com
Cassie @ Primitive & Proper says
the mantel looks awesome! love the rustic elements and love the classic colors!
Cassie @ Primitive & Proper says
the mantel looks awesome! love the rustic elements and love the classic colors!
Cassie @ Primitive & Proper says
the mantel looks awesome! love the rustic elements and love the classic colors!
Emily says
Yeah, I really love these. When you get around to making and embroidering your own stockings, I’ll place an order for the McKevitt family. You’re up for that, right? 🙂
McKae @ Kaes Corner Design says
So pretty! I love all the little details! The monogrammed stockings look great, that was such a good idea!
Mandy @ This Girl's Life says
Beautiful! I love how you personalized the stockings and all of the decor is just gorgeous!
Estephania says
This is BEAUTIFUL!!!
Kat says
Gorgeous, Kim! I love the fullness of the garland against the coziness of the knit stockings and the pretty, shiny baubles!
Julia says
LOVE the monograms on the stockings!!!
Freckles Chick says
Craftalicious! You do holiday decor up right. It’s like an LL Bean or Pottery Barn picturesque mantel & I mean that in the most flattering way. When can I cozy my buns up to your fireplace, hot cocoa (shot of Baileys) in hand, pugs in my lap & flannel PJs (optional, you’re welcome) on?
P.S. You were WAY ahead of the style curve by getting those cable knit stockings years ago, my friend.
Mrs. Chic says
Your mantel looks so good!! I love the stockings too 🙂
Cindy @The Flipping Couple says
Aw, so cozy and welcoming. I love it! I have a very half-heartedly decorated mantel at the moment. I love your stockings and the tags are so sweet. I’m also loving the wreaths. A lot.
Rachel says
I love your mantel! So cozy and welcoming. And I really like the idea of tags on the stockings instead of monograms . . . the little tags look adorable, and I like the lower commitment. I’ve always felt awkward about being referred to as ‘mom’ . . . I’m hoping it’s just a time thing and it’ll get less weird the longer it gets? Also, I’m really jealous of your Woodward window. I wish I had one. But Brown is such a boring last name. REGRETS.
Carolina Charm says
I cannot get over the awesomeness of the the “Woodward window!!” AH-MAZING! And I cannot believe your Aunt HANDMADE that snow man!!! Craftiness must run in the family! Great job, friend!
DecorandtheDog says
I should monogram my stockings. I don’t want to get whatever Nate is getting.
Super cute mantel. It looks so cozy!!
Biz says
It’s so cozy!
I just want to curl up in front of your fireplace!
Heather says
I love your mantel! And the stockings are adorable.
Jordan@the2seasons says
Your mantel is great! I am not happy at all with my mantel and you gave me some great ideas! Thanks.