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DIY: Minimalist Holiday Mantel, $10 Edition

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Fireplaces & HearthsIssue 49 — Down Home

DIY: Minimalist Holiday Mantel, $10 Edition

Justine Hand December 8, 2017

I have always been a mantel minimalist. To me, their architectural beauty needs little enhancement. Summers often find my mantels adorned with nothing more than a foraged bouquet. During the holidays I might allow for a just little more indulgence. Meet my wintery wonder, the $10 holiday mantel.

i have to admit, i picked up the \$5 seeded eucalyptus branches from my local w 14
Above: I have to admit, I picked up the $5 seeded eucalyptus branches from my local Whole Foods with the idea of incorporating them into a more lush display, but my minimalist tendencies won out. Holding up one branch, I noted its graceful curving bow and thought, “This would make a lovely garland.” It was simple enough. First, I stripped excess branches to make one long stem. Overlapping the ends slightly, I then lashed about five branches together with floral wire. Finally, I secured the lightweight garland to my mantel with—yes—clear packing tape. Total time: 10 minutes.
from there it was easy to style the rest of the mantel piece. the mirror, which 15
Above: From there it was easy to style the rest of the mantel piece. The mirror, which weighs about 500 pounds and therefore never moves, maintained its position as the centerpiece. Complementing the silvery eucalyptus leaves, a grouping of sterling candlesticks with beeswax candles served as my requisite “vertical element,” while also adding a bit of holiday bling.
to balance out the composition on the opposite end, i stacked a trio of vintage 16
Above: To balance out the composition on the opposite end, I stacked a trio of vintage garden books (from my grandmother’s collection) and topped them with a couple of paperwhite bulbs (which account for the remainder of my $10 budget).
a pair of midcentury swedish shot glasses serve as votive holders and provide a 17
Above: A pair of midcentury Swedish shot glasses serve as votive holders and provide a bit of glassy glimmer to this side.
to complete the overall composition, i filled the hearth with a grouping of for 18
Above: To complete the overall composition, I filled the hearth with a grouping of foraged branches, which will eventually serve as kindling.
a vintage galvanized tub, which has always served as my log holder, received&#x 19
Above: A vintage galvanized tub, which has always served as my log holder, received a holiday treatment with the addition of a few festive pinecones, foraged in Maine and California.
of course, no holiday mantel is complete without lights. this season, i opted f 20
Above: Of course, no holiday mantel is complete without lights. This season, I opted for the pre-Edison kind, as in candlelight.

Looking for more budget holiday inspiration? Try:

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Frequently asked questions

What is this article about?

This article is about DIY budget holiday ideas for maintaining your mental health during the holiday season.

What is the purpose of the article?

The purpose of the article is to provide readers with practical and affordable strategies for managing stress during the holidays.

What are some of the suggested ideas for DIY budget holiday mental health?

Some of the suggested ideas include: practicing mindfulness, creating a gratitude jar, organizing a winter picnic, and making handmade gifts.

Why is practicing mindfulness important during the holidays?

Practicing mindfulness is important during the holidays because it can help reduce stress and promote a sense of calm and relaxation.

What is a gratitude jar?

A gratitude jar is a simple and affordable way to practice gratitude. It involves writing down something you are thankful for each day and placing it in a jar.

How can a winter picnic contribute to mental health?

A winter picnic can contribute to mental health by providing an opportunity to get outside and enjoy fresh air and nature, which can help reduce stress and boost mood.

Why are handmade gifts a good idea for the holidays?

Handmade gifts are a good idea for the holidays because they are often more meaningful and personal than store-bought gifts, and can be a fun and creative activity.

Who is this article appropriate for?

This article is appropriate for anyone looking for affordable and practical ideas for managing stress and maintaining mental health during the holiday season.

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