Decorating Ideas - SkirtingBoards.com®

25 Ideas for Christmas Decorations for Stairs

November 27, 2018 by admin

You’ve probably got the basics down on how to dress up your porch, decorate your Christmas tree and set your table for the holidays. If you live in a two-story home or loft, decorating your stairs for Christmas should also be on your list. It’s easier than you think and makes a huge impact.

We’ve got 25 decorating ideas featuring creative Christmas decorations for stairs to bling out your banister this holiday season.

How to add Christmas decorations for stairs

Depending on the weight and size of your Christmas decorations, you may need double stick tape, wire, hooks, clear fishing line and twist ties to attach your ornaments. Choose supplies that blend in with your banister and decorations.

The secret to adding Christmas decorations for stairs is layering.

Start by twisting garland around the banister and continue adding some of these to the anchored garland:

lights
Christmas tree ornaments
monogram letters
candy
ribbon and more

Wind garland on your stairs to create a sturdy base for hanging the rest of your Christmas ornaments. Image: Anna Mackie

A simple arrangement of florals, garland and ribbon at the base of your banister can be all you need to to decorate your stairs. Image: Traditional Home Magazine

Add Christmas garland to your stairs

Garland should be the base of your Christmas decorations for stairs. You can use fresh garland or artificial, wired garland to get the look. Drape or twist the garland up the stair railing and add other elements like ornaments, ribbon or lights to complete the look.

Freshly cut, live garland hung on the banister is both fragrant and beautiful. Image: Lisa Gabrielson

To get this look, add other rustic, natural elements to your stair garland like Eucalyptus leaves, pinecones, burlap and linen ribbon. Image: Martha Stewart

Besides the natural garland on the banister, paper ornaments are hung on the wall to replicate the look of snowflakes. Image: Martha Stewart

A simple holiday look featuring garland, lights, small ornaments and a red ribbon to complete it. Image: D For Design

For the ultimate Christmas staircase, generous amounts of lightly-flocked garland are strung with lights, gold ribbon and tree ornaments. Image: Twenty Two Fifty Interiors

Decorating with ribbon on your stairs for Christmas

Ribbon is a fast, easy way to add some holiday cheer to your stairs. Choose large ribbon with wiring so that you can easily mold the ribbon. Take a close look at these Christmas decorating ideas featuring ribbon.

A mesh ribbon with silver, sparkly accents was layered over ordinary green garland. Tie in the whole look by adding color-coordinated decor like wall art, floor-standing ornaments and vases. Image: Rikki Snyder

Put a big red, plaid bow as the finishing touch to your completed Christmas decorations for stairs. Image: D For Design

Layer different colors and textures of ribbons on your stairs for an elegant Christmas setting. Image: Twenty Two Fifty Interiors

The gold ribbon strung through the banister adds a festive Christmas holiday look to this staircase. Image: Tobi Fairley

Christmas decorations for stairs using lights and candles

Decorating with string lights and candles adds a warm, homey feel to your home for the holidays. If a power outlet is not nearby, or you’re worried about having candles near kids or pets, choose battery-operated LED string lights or faux LED candles.

A combination of string lights and candles light the stairwell of this Nordic Christmas setting. Image: My Scandinavian Home

Decorative candle holders are placed on each step to create a warm glow. To keep them from falling, you can also place a small amount of Blu-Tack or putty under each candleholder. Image: Lowes

Hang lights up and down your stair railing like a waterfall to create a Christmas Wonderland effect. Image: HGTV

Wind lights around your garland before hanging them on the rails to make decorating your stairs for Christmas easier. Image: On Sutton Place

Creative Christmas decorations for stairs

Want to do something unexpected? Decorate your stairs for the holidays with non-Christmas objects like the ideas below. This is a great option if you’re crafty or want to involve the kids in creating ornaments to hang around the house.

Paper pinwheels made with newspaper and decorative paper are hung with simple branch garland on the stairs. Berry twigs in a vase also complete the look. Image: Ballard Designs

Visit your local party supply store for unique supplies you can use to decorate with. These big paper pompoms are lightweight and add a one-of-a-kind look to your stairs. Image: HGTV

Christmas decorations for stairs featuring stockings

If you don’t have a fireplace mantel to hang your stockings, you can also hang them on your stairwell!

The striped stockings add a fun Holiday vibe to the small living room. Image: Magnolia Home

Add ribbon and tree ornaments in colors that coordinate with your stockings to complete your banister decorating for Christmas. Image: Lowes

Advent calendar Christmas decorating ideas for your banister

The kids will love checking the stairs for their daily treats from a stairwell Advent calendar. You’ll need a stocking, basket or holder for the 25 days of Christmas and goodies to put inside.

For a rustic, country look, choose small copper buckets and add a small card featuring the day of the month. Image: Ideal Home

Small baskets or mugs filled with treats can be labeled with the day of the month or the person they’re for. Image: Good Housekeeping

Christmas tree ornaments to decorate your stairs

Pull together your tree and the rest of your decorations by hanging some of your ornaments like candy canes, balls or snowflakes on your banister.

Mid-Century Modern Christmas decorating featuring garland with vintage glass ball ornaments and stars. Image: D For Design

Use oversized tree ornaments, hung with colorful ribbon, to decorate your stairs and the wall. Image: Live Laugh Love

Pairs of Christmas ornaments, hung at different heights using ribbon, add a great finishing touch to this banister. Image: Lowes

Nordic-Style paper snowflakes in different shapes and sizes are attached on the stairs for a modern, white Christmas. Image: Ideal Home

Have fun decorating your stairs for the holidays with these Christmas decoration for stairs ideas. Don’t stop at the railings – you can also add ornaments and decor to the edges of the stairs, hang decorations on the walls and create a setting at the landing. You’ll enjoy the look every day you go up and down the stairs this Christmas season.

The post 25 Ideas for Christmas Decorations for Stairs appeared first on Freshome.com.

Artist Heather Gauthier Makes Art of Beauty and Wildlife

November 26, 2018 by admin

San Antonio artist Heather Gauthier captures the beauty and whimsy of our love of animals. Photo courtesy of Heather Gauthier

Artist Heather Gauthier doesn’t remember a time in her life when she wasn’t creating things. From her childhood days as an imaginative, home-schooled “weirdo” growing up in Lubbock, Texas to her early married life living in South Africa, Gauthier has been sketching and painting scenes of beauty and wildlife her entire life.

“There wasn’t much to do or see in Lubbock, the flattest, ugliest, cowiest town in West Texas. It meant my inner life was a lot richer,” Gauthier says. Both she and her brother are artists. She attributes their artistry to the fact that both of them had to rely on their imaginations for stimulation.

Beauty in the Eye of the Beholder

A dining room is illuminated with a piece of art from artist Heather Gauthier. Photo courtesy of the artist.

Though she took art classes briefly at Texas Tech (“I left running and shrieking for the hills, far, far away from Lubbock”), Gauthier has mostly been self-taught. Years of practice helped her hone her craft and find her voice as an artist. Her goal is to make art that is beautiful and that makes people happy. With pieces often featuring flora and fauna in exploding colors, Gauthier creates pictures that have a whimsical depiction of life and beauty.

“I am all about beauty. I create art that depicts a reality I wish was real,” she says.

Lions, tigers and bears, along with hippos, zebras and birds of every variety, are often the subjects of Gauthier’s art. Though the animals themselves are gorgeous and glorious and regal, Gauthier often lightens the mood of the painting by adding beautiful bouquets of flowers, hats, beads and other adornments on her subjects. Her art is playful and done with a sense of humor, despite her subject matters being serious creatures.

“I take pride in my work but I can’t take myself too seriously,” she says.

Playing the Artist Card

A client is dressed in black and white to complement her Heather Gauthier original. Photo courtesy of artist Heather Gauthier.

Asked what the best thing about being an artist is, Gauthier responds with “my Artist Card.”

“Why am I wearing hot dogs in my hair? Artist. Why does my house look like multiple factory explosions? Artist. Why can I never remember to sign my kids’ homework? Artist.”

Her offbeat sense of humor resonates with a particular audience and Gauthier has grown a following particularly in San Antonio, her current home base, along with a few other cities like Napa and Aspen. However, she says that New Orleans is her “artistic mothership” and it is there that she has been the most successful.

“People get me there and I deeply appreciate it. I paint the things I do for all the same reasons that I love New Orleans,” says Gauthier. Her work can be found at Gallery Orange on Royal Street in the French Quarter.

“I think the unusual and unique fun spirit of her work fits well into Nola, plus her love for anything flowery, joie de vivre and love of food all resonate with people here,” says Tracy Gielbert of Gallery Orange.

Work and Life Balance

Artist Heather Gauthier has a collection of homewares for sale on her website. Photo courtesy of Heather Gauthier.

Speaking of fitting, as a mother of two young children, Gauthier balances being a parent and an artist and paints in great bursts when her schedule allows. Sometimes, she says, she’ll let her kids pass some time in front of the television and work at a furious pace while they’re otherwise engaged. Often, she paints once they’ve headed off to bed. With school back in session, Gauthier plans to spend more time in her studio and on her easel.

The fall of 2018 will be a busy time for the adventure-seeking traveler. She’s working on a book cover for Harper Collins, a line of china and home linens and larger shows in San Antonio and New Orleans. Despite clocking in many hours painting, Gauthier says one of her goals this year is to take a little more time to just relax and ease up on her pace.

“I really want to chill some more this year,” she says. Gauthier has, to date, packed her schedule with events, launches and lots more painting. Her love for the creative process and painting means she will continue to produce works that will entice fans to keep buying her art – and will undoubtedly keep her busy.

The post Artist Heather Gauthier Makes Art of Beauty and Wildlife appeared first on Freshome.com.

Indigo Decorating Ideas and Products for a True Blue Holiday Table

November 25, 2018 by admin

We hope you like the products we recommend. Just so you are aware, Freshome may collect a share of sales from the links on this page.

Indigo is a fresh and modern design color this year. Yet indigo decorating has been popular for thousands of years. It is found in ancient pottery from China as well as Dutch Delftware, which originated in the 1500s. History shows indigo is a fabulous color for all seasons.

If you’re looking to incorporate a new color to your holiday table, indigo blue is a great choice. It works for Thanksgiving, as well as Christmas and Hanukkah. Accessorize it right and you can also reuse your indigo tabletop decor in the summer, too.

Here are some chic, modern indigo decorating ideas to enjoy a true blue holiday table.

Indigo blue patterned salad plates are layered with gold flatware and white accents like linens and roses. Image: Ballard Designs

A Thanksgiving table featuring fresh greens gets striking Shibori napkins in indigo. Image: Rebecca Atwood

Ink-color napkins add a relaxed feel to a formal china holiday table. Image: Lyngby Porcelain

To complete the indigo decorating of your holiday table, add accessories like this blue corn or indigo blue Christmas ornaments. Image: My French Twist

A festive and formal dining table featuring indigo and white. The setting works for Thanksgiving as well as Hanukkah or Christmas. The indigo and white theme also looks great with metallics like silver or gold accents. Image: Setting For Four

Indigo tabletop and kitchen decor

The post Indigo Decorating Ideas and Products for a True Blue Holiday Table appeared first on Freshome.com.

How to Transition from Thanksgiving to Christmas

November 23, 2018 by admin

There’s no denying that Christmas and Thanksgiving have blurred together over the years. Christmas songs start on the radio on November 1. It’s common to see Christmas trees up in homes and holiday lights ablaze right on Thanksgiving. In many homes, Thanksgiving has almost become “Christmas: Part One.” But Thanksgiving still deserves its due, so you’ll want to focus on how to transition between Thanksgiving and Christmas.

Luckily, if you can’t wait to get a bit of a jump on Christmas, there are plenty of gorgeous ways to combine both Thanksgiving and Christmas styles. Below are some classy ways to transition between Thanksgiving and Christmas using creative styles from both seasons. The overall idea is that you have a little bit of Christmas with your Thanksgiving, and then after Thanksgiving it’s easier to move your space to all Christmas decorations.

Transition Between Thanksgiving and Christmas Patio Space

Subtle holiday wreaths and pumpkins go well together. Image: Leanne Michael

Combine wreaths with pumpkins

The first photo above shows how you can combine harvest themes with a light touch of Christmas in a patio space. You can see how the pumpkin menagerie around the door gives the home a solid harvest theme for Thanksgiving. Pumpkins work in the home right up to Thanksgiving Day. However, the wreath gives a look of impending Christmas festivities, with the evergreen, seasonal red flowers and large holiday bow.

By combining pumpkins and a festive wreath, you pay homage to the holidays as a whole. This style can either work outdoors on the patio or you can use the same concept around your home indoors.

Transition Between Thanksgiving and Christmas Word Banner

Holiday-themed word banners are an easy way to decorate for both holidays. Image: Live Love Create

Use holiday-themed words to transition between Thanksgiving and Christmas

Another way to make your home move cleanly between the two holidays is to use holiday-themed word art around the home. The red and green plant on the table in the photo above already sets an early tone for Christmas. But the larger “gratitude” banner sets the theme for Thanksgiving.

Then, when it gets to be closer to Christmas, you might want to simply switch the word banner to read something more Christmas-themed, like “Yuletide,” “Santa” or something else related to Christmas specifically.

This style is also an example of a great idea for a minimalist holiday decorating scheme. The word banner creates a strong focal point, meaning you have to place fewer holiday decorations around the space.

Transition Between Thanksgiving and Christmas Small Tree

Placing small trees out during Thanksgiving gives a hint of the Christmas days to come. Image: Janet Paik

Add small trees early

A good way to transition between Thanksgiving and Christmas is to add some small tabletop trees in the home around Thanksgiving. This gives the hint of Christmas days to come without going full hog yet and putting up the large tree. You might also put sparse ornaments on the smaller trees to start out, and then load them up with decorations the closer it gets to Christmas.

This idea focuses on moving your holiday decorating in stages. As you get closer to Christmas, your home gets more seasonal. It helps create a sense of momentum in the space, rather than putting everything out too early and risking getting sick of Christmas in November.

Transition Between Thanksgiving and Christmas Seasonal Plant

Seasonal container plants work well for both Christmas and Thanksgiving. Image: Le Jardinet

Try seasonal container plants

Another easy way to transition between Thanksgiving and Christmas is to go for container plants with seasonal plant life. For example, the photo above features red berries, pine cones and an ornament.

Red berries are a decorating accent that moves well between Thanksgiving and Christmas. Cranberries tend to be staples on both Thanksgiving and Christmas dinner tables. And red berries tend to grow in fall already, so they make a good harvest decoration. But you can keep the red berries up because the red coloring goes with other Christmas decorations.

As you move towards Christmas, you can add more seasonal items to the display. Examples include more pinecones, ornaments or seasonal table pieces around the potted plant.

Transition Between Thanksgiving and Christmas Owl in Hat

This owl has a harvest feel in his materials, but he’s easy to update for Christmas. Image: Interiors Unleashed

Use harvest characters with Christmas items

This cute idea in the photo above is a good way to combine harvest themes and early Christmas themes. The owl himself has a harvest feel about him. He’s made of a straw texture and stands on some branches, which are common materials to find in harvest decorations. Then by adding an early Christmas seasonal hat, you can essentially update him for Christmas.

You can handle an idea like this in a couple of ways. You could keep just the harvest character out through Thanksgiving and then add the holiday hat before Christmas. Or you could have the harvest character and Christmas hat out on Thanksgiving, if you want to blur the two holidays together in a more modern sense.

Transition Between Thanksgiving and Christmas Table Setting

A conical tree on a harvest table setting is a good item to hint at Christmas. Image: Expert Touch Interiors

Go for holiday colors and conceptual items

Another idea to transition between Thanksgiving and Christmas is to get more sneaky in how you introduce Christmas elements early. For instance, in the photo above you can see how the table setting has an overwhelmingly harvest theme. However, the tall tree starts hinting at Christmas trees to come. The white and red berry formations on the tree also start to introduce Christmas colorings into the home.

So even though your home still has a harvest theme for Thanksgiving, it’s can start to have more subtle themes that you’ll see later for Christmas. You could also keep subtle pieces like the tabletop tree up during the holidays, since the red and white colors match traditional Christmas color schemes.

How do you transition your home from Thanksgiving to Christmas? Let us know in the comments.

The post How to Transition from Thanksgiving to Christmas appeared first on Freshome.com.

Modern Christmas Wreaths Featuring The Latest Trends Like Metallics, Pastels and Pom Poms

November 21, 2018 by admin

We hope you like the products we recommend. Just so you are aware, Freshome may collect a share of sales from the links on this page.

Ready to transition your Thanksgiving decor to Christmas? Start by hanging one of these modern Christmas wreaths on your front door. They feature the latest trends in home decor and holiday ornaments: metallics, pom poms, LED lights, flocking and modern colors.

Metallic Wreaths

The architecturally dramatic Brass Laurel Leaf Wreath by Restoration Hardware, $199 and up, adds warmth and elegance to your room.

Other metallic Christmas wreaths in stores now:

Pom Pom Christmas Wreaths

The colorful pom pom balls of the Anthropologie Pom Bonanza Wreath, $118, make it perfect for a non-traditional Christmas look.

Other pom pom wreaths in stores now:

Snow-Flocked Holiday Wreaths

An icy or snow-flocked Christmas theme, like the style of this Forest Pinecone Wreath by Anthropologie, $36, is big this year as designers choose understated colors for the holidays.

Other icy white holiday wreaths in stores now:

Pre-Lit Wreaths

LED lights make it possible to hang a battery operated, pre-lit wreath inside or outside, like Restoration Hardware’s Aspen Sparkle Wreath, $119 and up.

Other light-up Christmas wreaths in stores now:

Colorful Christmas Wreaths

If you’re looking for Christmas decor with a twist, choose wreaths like World Market’s Set of 2 Twisted Bottlebrush Wreaths, $30, in non-traditional Christmas colors.

Other modern, colorful holiday wreaths in stores now:

The post Modern Christmas Wreaths Featuring The Latest Trends Like Metallics, Pastels and Pom Poms appeared first on Freshome.com.

2018 Anthropologie Holiday Decor is Fresh, Fun and Festive

November 21, 2018 by admin

We hope you like the products we recommend. Just so you are aware, Freshome may collect a share of sales from the links on this page.

Before you start decorating for the holidays, check out the 2018 Anthropologie holiday ornament and decor collection for a fresh spin on this year’s festivities. There are 200 items of signature-style Anthropologie holiday decor and ornaments in unexpected colors and fun, crafty materials – ready to ship.

We broke the collection down into 10 themes featuring the most fun and fabulous of this year’s Anthropologie holiday decor. Forget traditional red and green, Anthropologie went with coral pinks, sage green and blues of all shades, and we applaud.

1. Vibrant felt Anthropologie holiday decor

For a folksy, colorful Christmas, add felted ornaments and decor for a warm, vintage look. Monogrammed or personalized messages also create a whimsical vibe.

2. Nutcrackers

Christmas isn’t complete without a nutcracker – or two or three. Anthropologie restyles the iconic ornament to feature the hottest hues this year like pink, corals and powder blues.

3. A golden Christmas

For the ultimate elegant holiday, bring in the gold. It also pairs beautifully with this year’s it-colors like coral and sage. Here are some of the must-have golds from 2018’s Anthropologie holiday decor.

4. Sugar-and-spice theme Anthropologie tree ornaments

Sweets don’t just belong on the table – they also make fabulous Christmas ornaments. Especially when you have a pink or white-flocked, sugar-and-spice tree. For more Christmas tree inspiration, check out our roundup of modern Christmas tree decorating ideas.

5. Feathers & fur

For the ultimate luxurious home this Christmas, feathers and fur are where it’s at. Layer with golds for a sumptuous Christmas theme. The textures of feathers and fur are soft and warm – perfect for nesting on a cold Christmas morning.

6. Moroccan-theme holiday decor

Boho-chic and global style are two big home decor themes. And nothing mixes the two trends better than Moroccan style. Take inspiration from the souks (markets) and hand crafts found in Morocco and decorate your home for the holidays in a Moroccan theme.

7. Mermaid Christmas under-the-sea tree

For a whimsical take on the usual beach-style decorating, go for a dreamy mermaid look on your tree. It features pastel colors, as well as glitter and gold.

8. Jetset travel-theme ornaments

Remember some of your favorite places traveled, as well as your favorite ways to get around, with these Christmas tree ornaments.

9. Beaded Anthropologie holiday decor

If bling and color are your thing, these beaded ornaments cover both bases. Handcrafted ornaments featuring fresh colors and patterns can also be used for more than your tree by:

Creating a message with a few of the beaded letters
Hanging some beaded ornaments, like the butterflies, from your window or fireplace
Using a Monogram Beaded Ornament instead of table place-setting cards for each guest

10. Tassels & pom poms

Add a boho-chic vibe to your home for the holidays with a few tassel or pom-pom ornaments. Forget minimalism – mix, match and layer for a maximalist look.

Brighten up your home and tree for the holidays by mixing, matching and layering your favorites from this year’s Anthropologie holiday decor collection. They also make great housewarming and holiday hostess gifts for your favorite friend with a sweet tooth, travel bug or love of the sea.

The post 2018 Anthropologie Holiday Decor is Fresh, Fun and Festive appeared first on Freshome.com.

5 Pinterest Christmas Table Decorating Trends You’ll Want To Try This Year

November 21, 2018 by admin

Pinterest is a great way to see what’s going on trend-wise. If you’re looking for something new and different to try this year for your Christmas tablescape, you’re going to love these five Pinterest Christmas table decorating trends.

1. Vertical Table Settings

Go beyond your dining table and think about the area over it. Hang items from your ceiling or chandelier to add some whimsy and wonder to your Christmas table.

Pinterest Christmas Table Decorating Ideas

Christmas snowflake and star paper ornaments are lightweight and easy to hang. Choose an odd-numbered grouping of paper ornaments in different patterns, colors and sizes and hang them at varying heights. Pinterest Pin: Style Estate

If it’s not possible to hang items from your ceiling or chandelier, try arranging balloons instead. These clear balloons are filled with fake snow and feature star ornaments on the ribbon that tethers them to the table. Pinterest Pin: Diane Pinto

In this tablescape, a large manzanita branch was placed in a weighted pot at one end of the table and lights and ornaments were hung from the branch. Pinterest Pin: Neptune

2. Christmas Bird Theme

A collection of birds, nests and feathers adds a unique and outdoors-chic look to your Christmas table setting.

This table has an Asiatic look, thanks to the cherry blossom twigs and small birds that rest on the branches. Pinterest Pin: Gracious Living

Owls are the theme of this Pinterest Christmas table setting and are featured as salt and pepper shakers, plates, place cards and ornaments. Pinterest Pin: Home Is Where The Boat Is

A subtle and elegant bird-themed Christmas tablescape includes feathers, nests and fine china featuring birds. Pinterest Pin: Home Is Where The Boat Is

3. A Pinterest Christmas Table Featuring Metallics

For a festive Christmas table, add some bling! Rhinestones, polished metals and crystals all create the sparkle and magic of the holidays. Don’t be afraid to mix metals and finishes.

Grey linens, vintage-looking mercury glass votives, a rhinestone-encrusted branch and polished chrome all simulate a snowy winter scene. Pinterest Pin: Look and Love With Lolo

Mix and match golds, champagne and silver tones for a fresh take on metallics. Don’t forget to add lights or candles for the ultimate reflective effect. Pinterest Pin: Pottery Barn

Crystal trees and the cool tones of grey and white create an elegant, frosty Christmas table look. Pinterest Pin: Hobby Lobby

4. Check and Plaid Christmas Table Settings

Plaid may be the biggest holiday table trend this year. For a modern take on plaid, choose a larger tartan print or buffalo check pattern.

This modern table setting features layers of buffalo checks and herringbone pattern. Pinterest Pin: Cuckoo 4 Design

A clever way to pull together your plaid-themed Christmas table setting is by hanging plaid blankets or scarves on your dining chairs. Pinterest Pin: Judy Aldridge

5. Alternative Christmas Table Setting Colors

Break away from traditional red and hunter green table settings. You’ll love these unusual yet perfect color alternatives for Christmas.

A bright emerald is a vivacious and contemporary way to add the color green to your Christmas tablescape. Pinterest Pin: Brit Morin

An elegant teal blue table setting can be paired with silver, greens, oranges or earth tones for a different take on the Christmas table. Pinterest Pin: Pier 1

To incorporate colors like purple or celadon, choose a holiday-inspired print like the tartan featured on the placemat. Pinterest Pin: House and Home

A black and white Christmas table is a modern way to decorate for the holidays. Add gold silverware and accents to warm up the tablescape. Pinterest Pin: Kait

What do you think of these Pinterest Christmas tablescape ideas? Which one are you most likely to try this Christmas?

The post 5 Pinterest Christmas Table Decorating Trends You’ll Want To Try This Year appeared first on Freshome.com.

10 Christmas Card Display Ideas That Showcase Your Most Beautiful Cards

November 20, 2018 by admin

We hope you like the products we recommend. Just so you are aware, Freshome may collect a share of sales from the links on this page.

What do you do with your Christmas cards every year? If you love receiving them but hate how they pile up, why not make them part of your holiday decorating? We’ve got a roundup of some of the best Christmas card display ideas and card hangers so you can showcase your favorite holiday cards this season.

1. Use A Wall-Mounted Christmas Card Holder To Display Them

The Branch Card Holder at Pottery Barn, $50, offers a beautiful, freeform way to display your Christmas cards over the fireplace.

2. Hang Them On Your Stairway’s Banister

Clip or pin your Christmas cards to string lights or pine garland to decorate your stairwell. Here are more ways you can decorate your stairs for Christmas. Image: Better Homes and Gardens

3. Use Ornamental Chain To Create A Wall-Mounted Christmas Card Hanger

christmas card display ideas and christmas card holders

This Nordic Christmas card display idea features large gold chain that’s been hung in a Christmas tree pattern to add to the festive holiday vibe. Image: Woonideeën

4. Go Vintage Farmhouse By Creating A Card Board With Chicken Wire

An old rustic pine frame mounted with chicken wire can hold Christmas cards and other objects, like ornaments and a wreath, as shown. Image: Lolly Jane

5. Hang Ribbon And Pin Your Cards

Choose a large, decorative ribbon and pin your Christmas cards to it. A door is a great place to display your Christmas cards. Image: Ideal Home

6. Arrange Your Christmas Cards Into A Tree Shape

If you have a large collection of Christmas cards, arrange them in a pyramid shape to look like a tree. Don’t forget to top the display with a star or tree topper. Image: We Hang Christmas Lights

7. Display Them Artfully In A Wicker Picnic Basket or Box

Use an ornamental box or picnic basket to hang and display your Christmas cards. Add string lights and ribbon for a holiday feel. Image: Ideal Home

8-9. Repurpose A Wall Using Washi Tape Or String

These unused hallway walls were transformed into clever displays for Christmas cards. Images: Thyme is Honey and Design Improvised

10. Hang A Christmas Card Mobile

For a whimsical look, create a hanging mobile for your Christmas cards and ornaments. Image: Design Improvised

Here are some Christmas card hangers and holders, in stores now:

The post 10 Christmas Card Display Ideas That Showcase Your Most Beautiful Cards appeared first on Freshome.com.

50 Powder Room Ideas That Transform Your Small Half Bath From Ordinary To Extraordinary

November 20, 2018 by admin

The powder room, also known as a small guest bath or half bath, is usually located near a home or apartment’s entrance and consists of a toilet and sink. Most half bath spaces are small and basic, but they don’t have to be.

If you entertain often, your guests will most likely use your half bath. What does the room say about you? It’s time to transform your half bath from ordinary to extraordinary with our powder room ideas and tips that will make your guests’ visit a swoon-worthy experience.

Use Some Creative Powder Room Ideas To Create A Picture-Worthy Setting

What’s the first thing a first-time visitor will notice when they open the door to your half bath? Make it creative and memorable, like this powder room. The homeowner layered a decorative, antique mirror over the simple wall mirror and included plenty of half bath decor and art to finish the room. Image: Cynthia Driscoll Interiors

First things first. Don’t treat your powder room like an ordinary bathroom. See your half bath as a tiny treasure box waiting to be opened and discovered. And so the first secret to creating a gorgeous space is to consider what guests will see the first time they open the door.

Tip: Open the door to your half bath and visualize what it should ideally look like. Will there be a bold splash of color? Will the vanity and lights be symmetrical and perfectly centered in the door opening? Will the colors and textures draw you in?

Pretend you’re a photographer and snap a photo of your half bath from outside the room with the door open. Then see how you can improve the design for a better photo, like these half bath ideas:

When visualizing what you want your half bath to look like, imagine what guests will see when they open the door. Draw them in by choosing the best and most beautiful elements you can afford. Images: BK Interior Design and Alidad

Half Bath Ideas Featuring Color

Powder rooms are where you “freshen up,” so why not freshen up your half bath by adding an unexpected color like violet? Image: Black Lacquer Design

You’re dealing with a small space, so don’t be afraid to be bold. One of the easiest ways to make a big statement is with a bold color.

Tip: Forget the rule that small spaces should be white or light. Add your favorite color to the walls. Some powder room ideas that add color to your space include:

Painting the entire room in a deep, rich color – ceiling included
Painting the wall behind the vanity in a high-gloss, bold shade
Adding colorful accents like towels and art in bright tones

Here are some powder room ideas featuring color for inspiration:

Primary Color Powder Room Ideas

blue powder room ideas and half bath decor

Blues and indigos are a natural color for a half bath. If choosing rich colors, contrast the tone with a white or light secondary color for the vanity, toilet and towels. Images: Elena Phillips Interiors and Carla Aston

Colored glass and high-gloss finishes add a reflective quality to rich colors and create a vibrant half bath. Images: Weinstein Luxury and Chris Jovanelly

The color lilac is on-trend – and the perfect shade for a dramatic powder room. Images: Carey Karlan and Black Lacquer Design

Black Half Bath Ideas

There’s nothing chicer than a black powder room. If you’re going black, commit 100 percent and include the color on the ceiling and floor. Images: Just Jill Interiors and Cornerstone Architects

Wallpaper Your Powder Room Walls

A high-glam powder room featuring velvet, tufting, marble and a metallic geometric wallpaper. Image: Eurodale

The latest wallpaper designs are a great way to breathe life (and design) into your small powder room. The variety of colors and patterns available can transform your powder room into quite the showcase!

Tip: Choose a vinyl, water-resistant wallpaper, just in case splashing happens. And if you live in a rental, look for removable wallpapers that make it easy to take the wallpaper down without damaging the walls when you move out. You can read more on removable wallpaper here.

Colorful botanical or floral prints are popular choices for a powder room. Images: Together Interiors

The latest removable wallpapers are both water-resistant and easy to take down. Images: F.A.D. Inc. and Kriste Michelini Interiors

Splurge On Stunning Tile

A geometric tile in fashion-forward lilac creates a one-of-a-kind powder room. Image: Complementto Tiles

Tile can be expensive. But if you have a tiny half bath, you don’t need a lot of tile to make a big statement. Go for it – the effect far exceeds the initial cost.

Tip: If you’re going to splurge on tile, choose a tile with a graphic pattern or unique look and use it floor-to-ceiling. If your budget is limited, tile the vanity wall and use a less expensive flooring option, like vinyl adhesive tiles, that look like stone or real tiles.

These powder rooms show unique ways to feature tile. Images: TEC Plumbing & Construction and Risa Boyer

Don’t Settle For Ordinary Powder Room Mirrors

Your half bath square footage is limited, so make every inch count! Powder room mirrors are not only the exclamation point in your half bath’s design, but they also expand a tiny bathroom.

Tip: Don’t shop for a basic mirror. Look for an interesting art frame and add a mirror to one. Or do something unexpected like creating a gallery wall of small mirrors over your vanity. Get creative!

Look for a mirror with unexpected details like a lattice design to the glass or a Moroccan shape, like these dramatic powder room mirrors. Images: MHouse and St. Amand Design

What’s the first thing you notice in these powder rooms? It’s most likely the beautiful, unusual mirrors. Images: Pulltab Designs and Croma Design

Choose Powder Room Lighting That’s Functional And Fashionable

There are several lighting elements in this modern powder room: a wall-washing overhead can, a candle and lighting mounted behind the mirror to cast a glow. Image: Chris Jovanelly

Good lighting can make all the difference in your powder room. Consider the powder room lighting to be the earrings that complete your outfit (or half bath).

Tip: Layer your lighting to include mood lighting and functional lighting. A pendant can create a statement and still light up the room. Wall sconces or candles can add to the ambiance. Consider a brighter, cooler-temperature bulb for your functional lighting and dimmer, warmer bulbs for your ambient lighting.

Architectural wall sconces set the right ambiance in your powder room. Images: Jodie Rosen and Charlie & Co Design

A combination of wall sconces and an overhead pendant create the perfect lighting effect in your half bath. Images: Diel Design and Raegan Ford

Offset The Elements On Your Focal Wall For Visual Interest

Want to do something fresh and modern in your half bath? You can center everything and go for a symmetrical look. Or you can break the rules to add interest by grouping things to one side.

Tip: Some ways you can add visual interest by offsetting the elements in your powder room include:

Mounting the mirror to the left or right of the vanity
Hanging lighting or pendants in a grouping on one side
Grouping accessories on one end or the other

Here are some examples of how you can freshen things up by not centering elements like lighting, accessories and the mirror as expected. Images: Laney and UA Creative

Make The Vanity The Star Of Your Half Bath

The powder room has two main functions: washing up and using the toilet. The vanity, therefore, is very important in your small bathroom. Make it a showstopper.

Tip: Choose a small piece of furniture to repurpose as a vanity. Add a vessel-style sink that sits on top of the piece. Or to save space and go for a contemporary look, mount a floating-ledge counter. Looking for the perfect small bathroom vanity? Check this roundup out, featuring the best small bathroom vanities for sale now.

These geometric vanities create an interesting effect. Although they don’t feature a lot of storage, they do add a clean, minimalist look to your powder room. Images: Amy Emery Designs and Sara Baldwin Design Blog

For a contemporary look to your small half bath, mount a floating-ledge style surface with a vessel sink that sits on the ledge. Images: Zero Energy and VT Constructors

Here are two creative half bath vanity ideas: an antique sewing table and a farmhouse-style basin sink. Images: Int2 Architecture and Aamodt/Plumb

Dress Up Your Half Bath Walls To Add Value

The elegant wall panels, reminiscent of a French drawing room or traditional library, can add a luxurious look to your half bath. Image: Gresinger Construction

A little bit of carpentry can add a high-end, expensive feel to the most basic half bath. If you own your home or apartment, adding wainscoting, paneling or molding to your powder room can increase your home’s property value.

Tip: Mount crown molding or pre-fab wood wall panels to your half bath and paint them in a semi-gloss or eggshell finish for a high-end feel.

Here are some paneling ideas you can incorporate into your powder room design. Images:MHouse Development and Laura Iverson Designs

Small In Space But Grand In Texture Is The Secret To A Stunning Half Bath

The designer sourced an antique Moroccan tile for the powder room. To continue the high-texture and pattern theme, the pendant, mirror, wall art and vanity feature Moroccan design. Image: Imperfect Interiors

Texture adds an air of sophistication to any interior. Texture is also incredibly attractive to most people because of its tactile feeling that draws people closer to touch. Although your powder room is small, layer as much texture as you can to add depth.

Tip: When working with texture, stick to a soft, monochromatic color theme. If you stick with natural colors that are varying shades of the same tone, mixing and matching different patterns and textures will be successful.

Some ways to add more texture into your powder room include natural stone finishes with varying (and imperfect) patterns and surfaces. Images: 2id Interiors and Laura U Interiors

Complete Your Half Bath With Accessories

Here’s a half bath that’s crisp and well-tailored in neutral tones with black and white accessories like hand towels, candles and wall art complete the look. Image: Magleby Construction

Now that you’ve created the coolest powder room ever, it’s time to pull it all together with the perfect accessories. After all, the magic is in the details.

Tip: Some items you may want to add to complete your powder room include:

A wastebasket that coordinates with a soap dispenser, tissue box cover and tray
Wall art
Candles or room diffusers
A vase or decorative vase collection
Towels featuring a unique design detail
Plants or orchids

Check out these half bath decor ideas that complete the space:

Monogrammed towels, flowers and touches of high-polish silver personalize these powder rooms. Images: Traci Zeller and Lucy Interior Design

Add some fragrance to your powder room with reed diffusers and candles. Images: Moodhouse and 2id Interiors

Nix the plain white towels and choose guest towels in fun colors or patterns. Don’t forget to add a bathroom-loving houseplant like an aloe or orchid. Faux silk ones look realistic and will always be in bloom. Images: Mercury Mosaics and Traci Zeller

We hope you’ve found plenty of inspiration in these powder room ideas so you can execute the most memorable half bath ever. Share your transformation with us on our Facebook page!

The post 50 Powder Room Ideas That Transform Your Small Half Bath From Ordinary To Extraordinary appeared first on Freshome.com.

Totally Chic And Affordable Tabletop And Furniture Finds For Your Holiday Dinners From Jet.com

November 19, 2018 by admin

This article is sponsored by Jet.com. The opinions and statements below are those of our writer’s experience. Freshome may collect a share of sales from the links on this page.

The holiday entertaining countdown is on! Thanksgiving dinner, holiday cocktails, Christmas roasts and New Year’s Eve parties are all coming up. Are you ready to host the best (and most fabulous) dinners and cocktail parties around?

We’ve got a secret for you – Jet.com is a great source for the urban dweller who loves modern style and a good deal. And we’ve found great prices on dining room furniture, table accessories and dishes. Check these out:

Table Settings

Let’s work backward and start off with the icing on the cake: the table setting. A good table setting of interesting colors and textured layers is the perfect backdrop for any event from a multi-course Thanksgiving meal to a Chinese takeout New Year’s Eve night.

Layers of browns, coppers and golds can work for both Thanksgiving and Christmas. Add pinecones or rustic twigs and berries for Thanksgiving or red accents for Christmas. All images: Jet.com

Get the look:

Other jet.com table setting ideas for the holidays:

Dining Chairs

Sometimes all you need to update your dining space is a striking dining chair. Mix and match yours or order the same style in several colors for a personalized look.

Best Jet.com Small Dining Sets

If you’re dealing with a small space, look for small-scale or multi-purpose pieces with storage or that can also work as a desk or kitchen prep table.

The LumiSource Sedona 5-Piece Industrial Counter Height Dining Set, $800, can also work as a bar, breakfast counter or kitchen prep table.

Modern And Farmhouse Style Dining Room Furniture

If you’re working with a regularly-sized dining room or eating area, you can add a table for six or more guests. For the ultimate flexibility, a bench can expand the seating area of a dining room. Jet.com has some good deals on these modern dining sets.

The Yumandale Teak Finish Acacia Wood 3-Piece Dining Set, $612, can be dressed up or down according to your table setting.

Turn your dining room or small eating space into an intimate, inviting place to gather this holiday. Start with the right dining furniture and dress it up with a fun and creative layered table setting.

The post Totally Chic And Affordable Tabletop And Furniture Finds For Your Holiday Dinners From Jet.com appeared first on Freshome.com.