Holiday Mantel Ideas

Celebrate your holiday spirit with this blend of traditional décor and contemporary holiday mantel ideas. Once you’ve got the basic design principles down, you’re ready to customize.

Here are some basic guidelines when decorating a mantel.
Step 1: If you're using a wreath above the mantle, hang it now.
Step 2: Next, add pre-lit garland on the mantle.
Step 3: Layer in seasonal items like candle holders, lanterns and Christmas accents. Stagger items of different widths and heights in front of each other.
Step 4: Add in smaller sprigs of holly, ornaments, pine cones and more.
Step 5: Once the mantle is done, hang the stockings.

Now that you’ve got the basic design principles down, you’re ready to customize your mantel decor for Christmas.

The oversized pre-lit wreath on this elegant mantel quickly catches the eye. The white lights tie into the coordinating garland that’s draped along the fireplace. A matching Christmas tree and touches of red throughout tie this traditional and festive look together.

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Pre-lit LED garland is the perfect starting point for any holiday mantelscape. It brings the outdoors in and easily doubles as evening mood lighting to help you get into the spirit of the season. Next, start layering in holly, pine cones, baubles and other décor items.

To create a cohesive look, mix in other decorative accents, like coordinating stockings, blankets and throw pillows.

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Stockings are traditional decorations for a holiday mantel, but you can easily put your own spin on the idea. Make them all the same or mix and match patterns to reflect your family’s personal taste. These cable knit stockings in cream, burgundy and olive speak to comfort and warmth. Personalize them by having names embroidered on each one.

Add some elegance to your mantel (and avoid scarring it with nails) by using decorative stocking holders.

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Coordinating your holiday mantel décor with the rest of your Christmas décor can really tie the look of your living room together. This artificial Fraser fir Christmas tree decked out with gold ornaments and warm-tone lights adds height by framing the mantel’s side. It also beautifully draws from the same color scheme as the garland. The lanterns and candles complete the look.

Artificial trees today look just as pretty as real ones. Plus they’re quick to install, are virtually maintenance-free and stay green all season long.

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No fireplace? No problem. Renters and homeowners who don’t have a fireplace can still create their own beautiful mantelscape without hiring a contractor. With a bit of creativity and the right accessories, a console table, bookshelf or freestanding mantel shelf hung on a wall can serve as a focal point for any room. For added warmth, try incorporating an electric fireplace.

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