HOLIDAY DECOR IDEAS Archives - LIFE ON SUMMERHILL

The Best of Hearth and Hand from Magnolia at Target 2023

Linda McDonald — Wed, 18 Jan 2023 20:51:00 +0000

Each season Hearth and Hand from Magnolia at Target launches a new collection. Their home decor, table decor, and kitchen supplies get better and better. These affordable pieces range from stylish rugs to furniture and accessories.

Photo Courtesy: Target Hearth and Hand

When the new Hearth and Hand from Magnolia at Target collection comes to the store, I feel like a kid in a candy shop. This is a favorite lifestyle brand of mine. There are so many pretty items, and if you love modern farmhouse style, then this line of decor is perfect for you.

This post contains affiliate links, meaning I receive a commission if you purchase using the links below at no extra cost to you. All opinions are all my own.

What type of Style is Hearth and Hand?

Joanna Gaines describes the style of the Hearth and Hand collection as “modern farmhouse aesthetic.” However, most of the collection will work with just about any style.

All of Joanna Gaines's decor coordinates so you can easily pick out what pieces you want, and they all go together. You can design a room around a collection or easily integrate one piece into your existing decor. All at an affordable price.

Because Hearth and Hand is a favorite here, I will continually update this post to keep you in the know. The current update is January 19, 2023.

Hearth and Hand from Magnolia at Target

When decorating my home, I always look for fresh and clean-looking items that give a cozy feeling. Joanna's Hearth and Hand collection always incorporate that design style.

This seasonal collection fits all those categories. You'll find clean lines and timeless design. Her main color scheme is neutral.

You can see the entire collection here!

Shopping Tips:

Items Sell Fast: The more popular items sell out quickly, so if you see something you like, go ahead and grab it.
Ship only & Store Only: Some items are ship only, while others are store only.
Set Alerts: If an item is out of stock, you can set a notification to be reminded when it comes back in stock.
Read Reviews: It helps to read other people's thoughts when shopping online. I have made many purchases based on reviews.
More than Farmhouse: Joanna Gaines made the farmhouse style trendy, but her collection can easily be used in other decor styles.
Categories: This post is set up in categories, so you can quickly drop down to what you are looking for. Click the table of contents to see the categories.

Hearth and Hand Collection Favorites

Let's get on to the fun stuff and see what Hearth and Hand have in their new collection. Here are a few of my personal favorites.

This bench is so adorable! It fits modern farmhouses, vintage, or just about any style.
I am on the lookout for lamps for our bedroom. I am seriously considering this lamp.
If you have to leave a watering can out for your house plants, why not use a beautiful one?
This rug is perfect for any front porch and is so pretty.
I am so excited Joanna included this pitcher because it will make the most romantic dinner item.

Seasonal and Holiday

Subtle Heart Ceramic Indoor Planter Pot Cream/Gray

You'll be using this planter this Valentine's day! Add your favorite plants and your front porch has a loving touch.

Stoneware Heart Mug Cream/Clay

Beautiful stoneware pitcher with a small heart. This pitcher will look adorable on a tray for Valentine's day.

Wire Easter Basket

Beautiful wire baskets you can use for decorations at Easter or leave out year around for storage and decorations.

14"x20" Gingham Lumbar Throw Pillow Ivory/Cream

This pillow is the perfect accent piece to bring your spring decor together. The classic design will coordinate with all of your spring decor.

Rugs

Stripe with Fringe Area Rug

This area rug with tassels will complement most decor styles all year round.

Wool Blend Variegated Stripe Area Rug

This wool blend area rug will add texture and is great for high traffic areas in your home.

Solid Jute Area Rug

This handmade rectangular area rug in faded blue will spruce up your indoor space and is easy to clean.

Basket Weave Jute Doormat

Made from 100% jute, this tufted doormat helps keep your space clean by clearing dirt and debris from shoes. This decorative woven doormat features a knotted construction to create an inviting ambiance, while the high-pile design is great for high traffic areas.

Chunky Stripe Area Rug Gray/Cream

This handmade rectangle area rug features a pretty allover chunky stripe pattern in gray and cream to complement almost any design style.

Furniture

Pedestal Wood Coffee Table

This light brown coffee table will be the perfect place to showcase your favorite decor and accessories.

Shaker Dining Bench with Curved Back

This shaker style bench comes in two finishes and is a great addition to your entry way or dining room.

Wood & Cane Transitional Entryway Bench & Hall Tree with Drawers - Natural - Hearth & Hand" wit...

Entryway Bench & Hall Tree

Get a perfect spot to hang and organize coats and other items along your entryway with the Wood & Cane Transitional Entryway Bench & Hall Tree. It comes with multiple hooks along with extra space for keeping bags and umbrellas. Plus, the built-in drawers feature a cane design and can be used to store small items.

Wall Decor and Mirrors

Round Framed Mirror

This round framed mirror will add a rustic touch and warm up any room in your home.

(Set of 2) Tree Sketch Framed Wall Art

The set includes two different tree sketches in simple black on a cream canvas, making for a versatile look that you can display in any room of your home.

Plants and Wreaths

Faux Gypsophila Wreath

This wreath makes a charming addition to your space. Made with realistic faux leaves and detailing, this wreath has a simple and clean design that pairs seamlessly with a variety of different decor styles.

Faux Philodendron Plant

This natural-looking faux philodendron plant brings a lively vibe to your home decor. Place it on your mantel, console or sideboard along with other potted plants to create an indoor oasis.

Faux Seeded Skimmia Wire Wreath

Great for hanging on your door or on a wall in your living or dining room, this faux wire wreath will adds a welcoming vibe to your interior decor throughout the seasons.

Accented Metal Watering Can

This watering can features a long and curved spout that allows for easy watering without upending the can. Showcasing a brass metal finish, it's sure to add a traditional feel to your outdoor space.

Accessories

Braided Grass Storage Basket

Add boho charm to your home by keeping it organized with this Braided Grass Storage Bin. Made with grass in a round shape, this braided storage bin brings extra visual appeal to your space.

Ribbed Clear Glass Bud Vase

This stylish vase looks great as a stand-alone piece or filled with artificial or real flowers or greenery. Pair it with coordinating clear vases of varying sizes for a lovely decorative look.

Distressed Ceramic Table Lamp

This stylish table lamp features a cream ceramic base to easily blend with your existing decor and a cream knife-pleated empire shade for a refined, classic look.

Double Prong Metal Wall Hook

Made with metal, this brass-finish wall hook features prong design to add vintage charm to your home.With two hooks it provides enough space for hanging your hand towels and other items.

Woven Storage Bin

Beautifully woven from rattan, this rectangular storage bin adds a touch of artisanal style to your space.

Accented Metal Task Lamp Brass

This practical desk task lamp features a brass finish that's easy to coordinate with any decor.

Kitchen Items

Mini Stoneware Syrup Pitcher

This mini syrup pitcher is made of two-tone stoneware construction and can hold 5 ounces of your favorite hot or cold beverages. Best of all - it's dishwasher safe.

Mini Stoneware Berry Bowl

This dishwasher safe mini berry bowl is made of two-tone stoneware construction and has holes to drain and keep your berries fresh.

Stainless Steel Kitchen Scale

This stylish Kitchen Scale offers a beautiful and functional addition to your kitchen tools. The manual-style scale design includes a tare function, requires no batteries and can hold up to 11 pounds.

Metal Decor Tray

Complement your modern decor with the functional and stylish Rectangular Metal Decor Tray. This cream tray comes with brass handles for a stunning look that complements a variety of aesthetics.

Textiles

Gingham Lumbar Throw Pillow

This bright and pretty gingham throw pillow is great for adding to a sofa, bench or armchair.

Chunky Textured Knit Throw Blanket

With a thick fabric construction, this machine washable throw blanket will keep you warm and cozy and look great with your decor.

Grid Lines Woven Throw Blanket

This lightweight throw blanket has a woven design and tasseled edges. Best of all - it's machine washable.

Stripe Square Throw Pillow

This vertical stripped pillow is crafted from 100% cotton. It will be a lovely complement to most design styles.

Loop Stripe Duvet Cover Bedding Set

This beautiful bedding set features washed loop stripes and includes a duvet cover and 2 matching shams.

More Decor Inspiration

Final Thoughts

I hope you love my picks from the Hearth and Hand from Magnolia at Target collection. Check back every season for the latest trends and top deals at affordable prices. They've got you covered from the front door, to the living room, to the kitchen.

You'll find beautiful pieces that will make your home stylish and cozy. I also think you'll love the Threshold designed by Studio McGee, also available at Target. Once the season is over, check out my post about the best way to organize your Christmas decorations for storage.

Happy Decorating!

The post The Best of Hearth and Hand from Magnolia at Target 2023 appeared first on LIFE ON SUMMERHILL.

The Best of Threshold Designed with Studio McGee at Target 2023

Linda McDonald — Fri, 30 Dec 2022 14:16:00 +0000

Each season Studio McGee creates a collection at Target, and this collection is gorgeous! Their home decor, holiday decorations, and kitchen supplies get better and better. These affordable pieces range from stylish rugs to furniture and accessories.

Each season when the new Studio McGee at Target collection comes out, I imagine all the possibilities in home decor. This is a favorite lifestyle brand of mine. There are so many pretty items, and if you love a classy and fresh traditional style, then this line of decor is perfect for you.

This post contains affiliate links, meaning I receive a commission if you purchase using the links below at no extra cost to you. All opinions are all my own.

What Type of Style is Studio McGee?

Studio McGee is one of the most popular Target designer collaborations. Shea McGee with Studio McGee is an interior designer who has created a design style that is transitional. But you might be asking what is transitional decor?

Transitional, in the world of design, means that it fits within so many styles. So if you are cottage style, you can find pieces from the Studio McGee line, but if you are modern, you can find pieces too.

I have had clients who have a very eclectic taste and finding transitional pieces is a great way to get the look they want. If you love changing out decor with seasons or holidays, then McGee pieces are perfect. They are timeless, classic, and cozy. The best part about her Target collection is their affordable.

Because Studio McGee is a favorite here, I will continually update this post with new pieces to keep you in the know. The current update is December 29, 2022.

Threshold Designed by Studio McGee at Target

When decorating my home, I always look for fresh and clean-looking items that give a cozy feeling. Shea's Threshold designed collection always incorporates that design style at great prices.

This holiday season spring collection fits all those categories. You'll find classic, timeless, and beautiful colors for your home.

You can see the entire collection here!

Shopping Tips:

Items Sell Fast: The more popular items and new arrivals sell out quickly, so if you see something you like, go ahead and grab it.
Ship only & Store Only: Some items are ship only, while others are store only.
Set Alerts: If an item is out of stock, you can set an in-stock alert notification on Target's website to be reminded when it comes back in stock.
Read Reviews: It helps to read other people's thoughts when shopping online. I have made many purchases based on reviews.
Categories: This post is set up in categories, so you can quickly drop down to what you are looking for. Click the table of contents to see the categories.

Studio McGee Collection Favorites

Let's start planning your decor and see what Studio McGee has in their new collection. Here are a few of my favorite pieces.

Throw Pillows

Bedding & Throw Blankets

Woven Throw Blanket with Fringe

This throw blanket looks great alone or paired with various throw pillows, and it's machine washable.

Yarn Dye Stripe Ruffled Comforter Set

This eye-catching comforter set is perfect for any season.

Lofty Cotton Woodblock Print Floral Quilt

This block print quilt will look beautiful as a full cover for your bed or folded as a throw at the foot of your bed.

Lofty Cotton Woodblock print Pillow Shams

Add these gorgeous pillow shames to our bedding collection.

Rugs

Hand Knotted Persian Style Tile Rug - Threshold" designed with Studio McGee

This new rug has a lovely warm neutral tone that pairs nicely in most rooms using warm neutrals.

Welcome Home Doormat

Layer this oval shaped doormat with a beautiful rug underneath.

Cottonwood Plaid Wool/Cotton Area Rug

This woven area rug of wool and cotton construction ends casual appeal to your decor.

Floral Print Distressed Persian Rug

This distressed Persian rug lends elegant, worldly style to any room.

Hand Knot Persian Rug

This hand-knotted rug adds distinctive appeal to your decor.

Furniture

Elmira Nightstand

This nightstand has two drawers offering plenty of storage space along with a neutral hue that complements nearly any design aesthetic or color palette.

Elmira Bed Frame

This minimalist bed frame has a lightly padded neutral-colored headboard that will complement almost any design style.

Wasatch Round Accent Table

This adorable off-white accent table with drawer is perfect to add a bit of storage without taking up a lot of space.

Emery Wood and Upholstered Bench with Straps

Made from wood, this natural bench has cream cushions for comfort and an all-around sophisticated look.

Rattan Trunk

Organize your throws, pillows and other essentials in vintage-inspired style with this Rattan Trunk.

Wall Decor and Mirrors

Oval Shape Antique Mirror

This sleek brass frame adds visual appeal to dim areas and can be hung vertically or horizontally.

Citrus Harvest Framed Wall Canvas

Refresh any room with a touch of vintage charm. Featuring a painting of a bountiful bowl of fresh fruit set in a stunning gold frame, it is perfect for adding luxury to any space.

Landscape Study Framed Wall Canvas

This beautiful painting features earthy tones and is set in an antique gold frame, making it a perfect addition to any room.

Plants and Wreaths

Set of 3 Mini Olive Wreaths

This set of three artificial wreaths makes a lovely addition to your year-round decor. It's adorned with faux lush olive leaves to bring a natural touch to your home.

Wild Eucalyptus and Olive Leaf Ribbon Wreath

Add a lively touch of greenery to your indoor space with this artificial wild eucalyptus and olive leaf wreath with a gold ribbon that will complement any decor.

Maple Artificial Tree

This artificial potted plant features a natural-looking maple leaves in green to offer a lively vibe to your home decor, and comes potted inside a textured container for easy display.

Lighting

Ceramic Table Lamp with Gingham Print Pleated Shade

This unique table lamp features a white and brown ceramic base, and it comes with a pleated empire shade with a gingham pattern for classic style.

6-Light Hammered Metal Chandelier

This black metal chandelier has six candle-style lights that look wonderful with every design style.

Photo Credit: rstyle.me

Tapered Rattan Ceiling Light

This bright and cheery adjustable hanging rattan ceiling light will add casual elegance to any space.

Lantern Pendant

Vintage inspired lantern pendant brings traditional charm to your decor.

Kitchen and Dining Room

Scalloped Bowl

Boasting a stoneware construction, this bowl features a round shape with scalloped rim for a standout style you and your guests will appreciate.

Ceramic Angular Bowl

This gorgeous decorative ceramic angular bowl with a neutral glaze is perfect for to display year-round.

Stoneware Large Glazed Pitcher

This half-gallon stoneware pitcher is great for a variety of hot and cold drinks and will bring classic style to your table.

Outdoor Collection

Textured Tonal Stripe Outdoor Rug

This outdoor rug will go perfect by the pool or on the patio. It's easy to clean and will look great with all your outdoor furniture.

Micro Gingham Outdoor Throw Pillow

These adorable outdoor pillows in dark taupe and off-white micro gingham will keep your guests cozyand comfortable at all your outdoor events.

Bluffdale Patio Bar/Hutch

Have all your outdoor entertaining needs at your fingertips with this weather-resistant patio bar.

More Decor Inspiration

Final Thoughts on Studio McGee at Target

I hope you love my top picks from the Threshold designed by Studio McGee collection. Check back every season for the latest trends and top deals at affordable prices. They've got you covered from the front door, to the living room, to the kitchen.

You'll find beautiful pieces that will make your home stylish and cozy. Once the season is over, check out my post about the best way to organize your Christmas decorations for storage.

Happy Decorating!

The post The Best of Threshold Designed with Studio McGee at Target 2023 appeared first on LIFE ON SUMMERHILL.

How to Make a Christmas Village Wreath

Linda McDonald — Thu, 22 Dec 2022 10:45:00 +0000

Today I am sharing how to make a Christmas village wreath. If you have seen this adorable wreath on Martha Stewart's website or Anthropologie, you are in for a treat. This DIY Christmas village wreath is so easy to make, and it takes only a couple of hours.

If you have been around me long, you know I love to decorate for Christmas with gingerbread houses or mini Christmas villages. Anything I can transform into a village is one of my favorite things. In fact, years ago, I made an apple tea light Christmas village.

But recently, my daughter shared Anthopolgies Christmas village wreath with me, and I thought what a cute idea until I saw the price of around $200. So I decided this is worth trying to make where it fits my Christmas theme this year.

Next, after thinking about it more, I researched and discovered that Martha Stewart's putz house wreath might very well be the originator of this adorable idea. But then I found this Thomas Kinkade Christmas village wreath. So many ideas to pull from for our wreath.

Now all these wreaths are so cute, but I wanted to minimize it a little. With the help of my daughter, Hannah, here is how to make a DIY Christmas village wreath.

This post contains affiliate links, meaning I receive a commission if you purchase using the links below at no extra cost to you. All opinions are all my own.

Gather Your Supplies

24″ flocked wreath (I found mine at Walmart)
Lightweight village houses (Mine came from Target dollar spot, but I found more on eBay.)
Glue gun and glue
Floral wire
Blue Velvet Ribbon
White sheer ribbon
Wire cutters
Bottlebrush trees (I got mine from Dollar Tree)
Polyfil (used for snow)

How to Make a Christmas Village Wreath Step by Step?

Creating a Christmas village wreath couldn't be easier! Beautiful Christmas decorations don't have to be expensive. If you follow this step by step instructions, you'll have an inexpensive way to make your very own beautiful wreath this holiday season.

This may be your favorite holiday decor this year. The fun thing about this project is that each wreath you make will end up a little different, so they will be one of a kind.

Step 1: Wreath Form

Start with a 20″ flocked wreath on a flat surface.

Step 2: Village House Layout

Take your village houses and lay them out on the wreath to determine where you want them.

Step 3: Attach Village Houses

Once you're happy with the placement of the houses, take your floral wire and weave it through the windows on the back of the houses and wrap the wire around the wreath frame. If you use any three-story houses, put the wire through the middle windows to keep the house secure. Repeat with each of the little houses.

Step 4: Fluff the Greenery

Cut off the excess wire on the back of the wreath with your wire cutters. Fluff up the wreath around the houses. You want them lying flat against the wreath frame.

Step 5: Hot Glue Snow

Use your hot glue gun to place a little bit of glue on the bottom of the house, and use the polyfill to create “snow” along the house's base and out to the side of the house.

Repeat for each of your houses.

Step 6: Ribbon Bow

Next, I attached the ribbon in three layers to the top of the wreath, alternating blue velvet ribbon and a linen sheer white ribbon. To do this, I created several loops with each ribbon, secured them with the floral wire, and attached them to the wreath frame just like I did with the houses.

Side note – This is the same blue velvet ribbon I've used throughout my blue Christmas decorations ideas with hints of vintage Victorian. It is my favorite ribbon this holiday season and looks perfect on my winter village wreath.

Step 7: Remove Bottle Brush Tree Base

Next, I took the base off the white bottle brush trees and positioned them in the wreath until I was happy with the layout. I placed trees around the village houses and throughout the wreath to give it a mountainy vibe.

Step 8: Glue Bottle Brush Trees & Snow

Then I used my glue gun, dabbing a bit of glue into the wreath and nestling each tree into the glue. Next, I added more snow around the trees, securing it with my glue gun, and then fluffed up the greenery around the wreath once the pieces are in place.

That's it! Your beautiful Christmas village wreath is done.

Where to Hang your Christmas Village Wreath

I chose to hang my wreath project from a hook in my kitchen, but you can hang it over a large mirror, inside a frame, on your wall, or inside a door. You can get another look at my Christmas village wreath in my Christmas candlelight home tour.

If your village houses are cardboard, like mine, then I would keep it indoors, but if your wreath can withstand weather, then it would be cute hanging on your front door. This wreath would look amazing, with fairy lights woven inside the greenery.

This fun Christmas wreath looks fantastic! You can also check out how to hang your wreath from a window. Find other great ideas for decorating with wreaths here.

Final Thoughts

What do you think? Are you ready to make a Christmas village wreath for your own home? I was surprised by just how easy it was and so much fun.

This Christmas village wreath would also make a great gift for your friends and loved ones. You can personalize each wreath by designing it in different ways. It's sure to spread holiday cheer.

I'd love to hear how your wreath turns out or what other DIY Christmas wreath ideas you have to share. Happy holidays!

Happy Decorating!

How to Make a Christmas Village Wreath

Learn how to make a Christmas village wreath. This DIY Christmas village wreath is so easy to make, and it takes only a couple of hours.

Active Time 1 hour

Total Time 1 hour

Difficulty Easy

Materials

20" flocked wreath (I found mine at Walmart)
Lightweight village houses
Floral wire
Blue Velvet Ribbon
White sheer ribbon
Bottlebrush trees (I got mine from Dollar Tree)
Polyfil (used for snow)

Tools

Instructions

Start with a 20" flocked wreath on a flat surface.
Take your village houses and lay them out on the wreath to determine where you want them.
Once you're happy with the placement of the houses, take your floral wire and weave it through the windows on the back of the houses and wrap the wire around the wreath frame. Repeat with each of the little houses.
Cut off the excess wire on the back of the wreath with your wire cutters. Fluff up the wreath around the houses. You want them laying flat against the wreath frame.
Use your hot glue gun to place a little bit of glue on the bottom of the house and use the polyfil to create "snow" along the base of the house and out to the side of the house.
Repeat for each of your houses.
Attach the ribbon in three layers to the top of the wreath, alternating blue velvet ribbon and a white sheer ribbon. To do this, I created several loops with each ribbon and secured them with the floral wire and attached them to the wreath frame just like I did with the houses.
Take the base off of the white bottle brush trees and positioned them in the wreath until I was happy with the layout. I placed trees around the village houses but also throughout the wreath to give it a mountain-y vibe.
Then I used my glue gun, dabbing a bit of glue into the wreath and nestling each tree into the glue. Then I added more snow around the trees, securing it with my glue gun. Fluff up the greenery around the wreath once all of the pieces are in place. That's it!

Notes

If you are using any three-story houses, put the wire through the middle windows to keep the house secure.
If you use cardboard houses like I did, you'll want to keep this wreath inside the home to protect it from weather.

The post How to Make a Christmas Village Wreath appeared first on LIFE ON SUMMERHILL.

Victorian Christmas Candlelight Home Tour & Decorating with Candles

Linda McDonald — Tue, 20 Dec 2022 11:00:00 +0000

I am so excited to share this year's virtual candlelight home tour. This year's design takes you back in time to the Victorian era, plus I used the color blue to connect all the rooms in our home. And since we are touring my home by candlelight, I thought it would be fun to share some designer tricks on decorating with candles.

If you have arrived at this candlelight tour from Michele's blog at Vintage Home Designs, welcome. I am so excited you are here, and I hope you enjoy this Christmas candlelight, fairy lights, and lamplight home tour. While we are touring my house, I will also share ideas for decorating with candles.

For as long as I can remember, I have loved the warm glow of candles nestled next to other decorations. Candles create a cozy ambiance like no other decoration. But I know not everyone can burn candles in their home or even want to light a live flame, so this post will show you how to decorate with candles and different kinds of candles, from battery-operated to old fashion.

Remember, this year's Christmas theme is Victorian with accents of blue. If you want to see more during the daytime, check out my blue victorian Christmas post.

This post contains affiliate links, meaning I receive a commission if you purchase using the links below at no extra cost to you. All opinions are all my own.

Victorian Christmas Candlelight Home Tour

Here are the candles and accessories you'll see on our tour:

Battery powered candles
Lucid Candles
Fairy lights
Christmas tree candles
Candle clips
Battery-powered candles for Nativity
Charles Dickens house
Pewter plates
Candles on plates
Candle clips on plates
Candles in centerpiece
Chamber lamps
Candles hanging on hooks
Battery powered candles
Candle holders
Ribbon (linen sheer white ribbon 1 1/2″)

How Do you Decorate with Candles?

There are as many different ways to decorate with candles as there are different candles. Candles are wonderful year-round, but they are an especially easy way to decorate during the holiday season, and with good reason. The warm glow of candlelight is a perfect accessory to highlight your holiday decorations, or you can create a focal point using candle centerpieces.

Don't forget lamps and fairy lights when you're decorating with candles. Lamp lights and lantern lights offer a vintage design, and the glass hurricanes protect your home from open flame. Fairy lights are a fun way to add sparkle and fun to your holiday decor. Some of the best places to use them are on mantels and woven with garlands.

Here is a list of my favorite ways to use candles.

Candles on side tables
Candles on the fireplace mantle
Candles on Christmas trees
Candle clip plate wall art
Candle on a cutting board on your stove
Candle centerpiece (nativity and entryway)
Hanging candles from hooks
Lantern or jar candles

How I Decorate with Candles

Let me give you a tour of my home and how I use candles to decorate.

Living Room

In my living room, I've used battery powered candles of different heights on the mantel. Battery-powered candles are a safe alternative to real candles, and you can leave them lit all day without worrying about messy wax, smoke damage, or things catching fire.

I've also woven fairy lights into the garland. This makes for a magical, sparkling atmosphere without being overwhelming.

I've used Lucid Candles for the side table, which enhances the atmosphere. These are some of my new favorite candles. They look just like the real thing.

Lucid Candles are refillable, liquid candles that burn a real flame and never melt down. They offer taper, pillar, and votive candles in different sizes and colors. They even have oils to create scented candles.

The pillar candles are perfect for end tables, coffee tables, and anywhere you want to draw attention to your Christmas decorations.

I love the look of these beautiful candles on Christmas trees, and I found the perfect candles and clips to hold them on the tree. I don't light these candles for safety reasons, but they're beautiful to look at and fit in wonderfully with my Victorian theme.

Dining Room

I'm starting in the dining room with the Nativity display on the dining table. I use battery powered candles for safety and surround them with cedar that I found in the woods.

On the shelves, I have a wonderful illuminated Charles Dickens house that's perfect for the season.

Entryway

In my entryway, I have beautiful pewter plates on the wall, and then I used the same candle clips on the Christmas tree and added a candle to the plates. This is a fun way to make an old-fashioned sconce that will magnify the illumination of your candles and create a festive atmosphere.

I created a centerpiece for my entryway table with cedar, ribbon, and battery operated candles so it can light up the room all season long. Here is a fun trick – I place candles in rice inside the bowl to hold them up and then cover the rice with greenery, bell garland, and ribbons.

Butler's Pantry

I set up two chamber lamps in my butler's pantry that work nicely with my blue Victorian Christmas theme. If you look closely, I also added gingerbread cookies inside my sugar jar.

This is one of many simple ways to change the atmosphere of any room in your house.

Master Bedroom

In the master bedroom, I'm decorating the faux fireplace mantel I built with more cedar and candles from Lucid Candle. I love these candles!

The bottom of the candle is shaped perfectly for fitting into candle holders. I put one at each end of the mantel and weaved fairy lights and ribbon into the cedar.

I also added cedar to a small french pitcher I keep on the small heater under the mantel that usually houses lavender. You can find creative ways to transform many daily objects into holiday decorations with small changes like this. With the addition of a vintage picture I've hung over the mantel, it feels cozy and festive.

Kitchen

I used Lucid Candles on the stove with a sprig of cedar in my kitchen. Sprinkling candles, ribbon, and greenery throughout the room gives it a Christmasy feeling.

I used a hook to hang candles with ribbon, and on my coat rack, I hung a garland woven with fairy lights.

You'll also see some adorable, easy-to-make paper snowflakes. It's another example of inexpensive ways to decorate for the holidays.

Sprinkling candles into your existing accessories is a simple trick to make a room feel cozy. Here is where I added an antique mason jar candle to my Christmas decor.

Here is another spot where I cozied a candle. Even though this is not a big room I was able to add a few candles to illuminate the space beautifully. Do you see the adorable Christmas village wreath hanging up? You can make your own with these easy step-by-step instructions.

Back Porch

On my back porch, I have another Christmas tree to brighten the space. This year our back porch is designed by my daughter Hannah and her theme was retro so this tree is adorned with vintage looking ornaments.

And then to add to the warm and cozy feel are the battery candles standing sentry on each side of the door nestled in cedar branches. Adding candles and greenery is one of the easiest ways to transform any location of your home into a holiday celebration.

Final Thoughts

Decorating with candles is a fun way to bring a warm glow to your home and highlight your favorite decor. I hope I inspired you to try decorating with candles this year. Do you have any decorating ideas with candles you use in your own home you want to share? I'd love to hear them!

Be sure to check out my friend AnnMarie's home tour from Simply2Moms. You'll love her home tour filled with elegant Christmas decor. Merry Christmas!

Christmas Candlelight Home Tours

A home that’s decorated for Christmas always feels so special. When the sun has gone down and the lights are all twinkling it becomes so magical. Sit back and enjoy touring these beautiful homes by the glow of candlelight. You can visit each Christmas home tour by clicking the links below.

Monday

Simply2Moms: Anne // Cottage On Bunker Hill // Bricks’n Blooms

The Ponds Farmhouse // Southern Crush at Home

Tuesday

Simply2Moms: AnnMarie // The Tattered Pew // Pasha is Home

Midwest Life and Style // Vintage Home Designs // Life on Summerhill

The post Victorian Christmas Candlelight Home Tour & Decorating with Candles appeared first on LIFE ON SUMMERHILL.

How to Make Snowflakes Out of Paper Bags

Linda McDonald — Sat, 17 Dec 2022 10:45:00 +0000

Here are step-by-step instructions on how to make snowflakes out of paper bags. You can use this DIY snowflake tutorial to make any size and color as long as you are using paper bags.

Last Christmas, while visiting my daughter, she showed me an Instagram post where someone took brown lunch bags and made snowflakes. It was so cute! I wish I could remember where we saw it so I could share it with you. Anyways, we just had to make these adorable lunch bag snowflakes too.

We laughed and giggled while gluing bags together and cutting different shapes into the bags. Making paper snowflakes is an easy craft and a great family project!

After finishing the project, I made a YouTube video on making paper bag snowflakes, but I ran out of time to write a post so guess what? Yep! you guess it — today's post is about how to make snowflakes out of paper bags.

This post contains affiliate links, meaning I receive a commission if you purchase using the links below at no extra cost to you. All opinions are all my own.

How Do You Make Snowflakes with Paper Bags?

Making snowflakes with paper bags is easier than you think! I will show you how to make easy paper bag snowflakes in just six simple steps using items you probably already have at home.

Gather Your Supplies

Paper lunch bags (you can use any brown paper bags, but in this case, I used white paper bags)
Glue sticks
Yarn or twine
Scissors
Pencil
Patterns (optional) (Subscribe to Life on Summerhill to get access to this printable pattern)
Stapler

Step 1: Glue Paper Bags Together

I'm using white paper lunch bags for my snowflakes today. Begin by drawing a T shape on the bags with a glue stick. The top of the T should be along the bottom of the bag.

Draw a straight line of glue to the open end of the bag. Place another bag on top, repeat this step with the next bag, and continue until you have nine bags glued together. The glue lines should line up on the same sides of the paper bags.

Step 2: Draw The Snowflake Pattern

Next, print and cut out the snowflake pattern if you plan to use them. Using a pattern is a great way to get a symmetrical design.

I found a pattern for the easiest way to make snowflakes out of paper bags, so I made them available to everyone. I offer free snowflake patterns in my subscriber-exclusive printable library. To access this library, click subscribe to our newsletter to access the snowflake patterns under the Christmas section.

Cut the pattern from the printed piece of paper and then place the pattern on the bags and trace the design.

Step 3: Cut Out the Snowflake Pattern

For the next step, cut out the design from the entire stack with scissors. It helps to use a good pair of very sharp scissors. It doesn't have to be perfect, just get it as close as you can.

Step 4: Open the Snowflake

Unfold the bags from the top and if any of the sides of the bags are not stuck together, secure them with your glue stick or hot glue gun. Open your snowflake, bringing it all the around.

Step 5: Add Twine or Yarn to the Snowflake

If it looks good, bring your snowflake back together. Cut a piece of twine or yarn about 24 inches long. Once again, apply glue in a T shape, open the snowflake, and put your hands inside the top of the bag on each end to press them together, adhering the glue.

Step 6: Staple Twine or Yarn in Place

Place the end of the string or yarn on the glue and staple it together. Your DIY paper bag snowflakes are almost done.

That's it! You now have a beautiful giant snowflake. I hope you enjoyed this DIY Christmas craft. Now that you have the hang of it, you can try making more in different designs using different patterns.

How to Decorate with Your Snowflakes

Now for the best part! There are many ways to decorate with your snowflakes this holiday season. You can set the snowflakes up on your bookcase; all you need to do is not include the string.

Do you like the red and white snowflake? You can make that using popcorn bags. I got mine at Dollar Tree and cut out the word “popcorn.” It makes a slightly smaller version than the white paper bag snowflakes.

As I did here, you could also hang them from a coat hook. Or you can use a command hook to hang them on a wall.

Try hanging your snowflake from the ceiling or as window decorations. Consider weaving fairy lights through them. They'd also be a cute and inexpensive way to turn a child's room into a winter wonderland. You can use different sizes of bags to create different size snowflakes for your winter decor.

Final Thoughts

What do you think? Are you ready to try to make these adorable snowflakes? I think this is such a fun craft!

I'd love to hear how you decide to decorate when you make snowflakes out of paper bags. For more fun Christmas DIY decor projects, try these ideas:

And if you are looking for Christmas decor ideas, check out my ideas for blue Christmas decorations with a vintage flair or learn how to create simple farmhouse Christmas mantel. Merry Christmas and Happy New Year!

Happy Decorating!

If you enjoyed this post, sign up to receive new decor ideas each week. FREE EMAIL SUBSCRIPTION

How to Make Snowflakes Out of Paper Bags

Here are step-by-step instructions on how to make snowflakes out of paper bags.

Active Time 30 minutes

Total Time 30 minutes

Difficulty Easy

Materials

Paper lunch bags
Glue sticks
Yarn or twine
Scissors
Pencil
Patterns (optional)
Stapler

Instructions

Begin by drawing a T shape on the bags with a glue stick. Place another bag on top and repeat this step until you have 9 bags glued together.
Next, print and cut out the patterns if you plan to use them. Cut the pattern out on an extra paper bag. Place pattern on bags and trace the design.
Cut out the design with scissors. It helps if your scissors are very sharp. It doesn't have to be perfect, just get it as close as you can.
Unfold the bags from the top and if any of the bags are not stuck together, secure them with your glue stick. Open your snowflake, bringing it all the around.
If it looks good, bring your snowflake back together. Cut a piece of twine or yarn about 24 inches long. Once again, apply glue in a T shape, open the snowflake, and put your hands inside each end to press them together, adhering the glue.
Place the end of the string or yarn on the glue and staple it together. That's it! You now have a beautiful snowflake.

Notes

I offer free snowflake patterns in my subscriber-exclusive printable library. To access this library, go to https://lifeonsummerhill.com/subscribe. Subscribe to our newsletter to get access to the snowflake patterns under the Christmas section.

The post How to Make Snowflakes Out of Paper Bags appeared first on LIFE ON SUMMERHILL.

Blue Christmas Decoration Ideas with Hints of Vintage Victorian

Linda McDonald — Sat, 03 Dec 2022 10:45:00 +0000

This year's Christmas decor is a little different from years past. In fact, we will time travel and change our color scheme. Here are blue Christmas decoration ideas for your fireplace mantel and Christmas tree, and they all have a modern Victorian twist.

Each year I like to come up with a theme or color scheme for our Christmas decorations and this year we are using my favorite color blue and my daughter's favorite theme Victorian. Well, actually she pretty much loves anything vintage. LOL!

Christmas is the perfect time to try out different themes you're interested in and that's just what we did.

So since we are decorating for Christmas with blue and Victorian, I thought you would enjoy these blue Christmas decoration ideas with hints of vintage Victorian. This is going to be so much fun!

How can I Decorate my Christmas like a Victorian?

You might be wondering what decorating for Christmas in a Victorian theme means. Victorian Christmas decorations often included garlands and swags, holly and mistletoe, delicate glass ornaments and candles.

Firstly, you can bring a Victorian-style Christmas theme to your home by incorporating antique or reproduction ornaments, beadwork, garlands of greenery, and ribbon into your decorations.

Additionally, traditional Victorian colors included mauve, lavender, pink, rich red and burgundy, peacock shades of blue, green, and teal, and creamy white and ivory. I chose blue as the primary color for my decor.

This post contains affiliate links, meaning I receive a commission if you purchase using the links below at no extra cost to you. All opinions are all my own.

Gather Your Supplies

Here are some of the things I used for decorating and where you can find them. Keep in mind that things sell quick at Christmas time, so move quick!

Thomas Kincade print
Mirror
Cedar wreath by Threshold Studio McGee
Battery-powered candles
Brass candlestick holders
Victorian Santa printable
Mistletoe garland
Bell garland
Sock Stockings
Vintage skates
Light blue velvet ribbon
Dusty blue velvet ribbon
Vintage rocking horse
Vintage sled
King of Christmas tree
Star for the top of tree
Wool mice ornaments
Christmas tree candles
Jingle bells sanded and bronzed with Rub n Buff
Homemade air-dry clay ornaments
Glass ornaments

Blue Christmas Decoration Ideas

Let's Start with the Mantel

One thing you'll see in Victorian Christmas decorations is natural elements. So I'm starting with what goes on top of the mantel, like this beautiful print that was a gift from my sister years ago, and then we will talk about a mistletoe garland on my mantel.

Decorating the Christmas Art

This Thomas Kincade print will be the inspiration for the directions in our living room. It's the perfect complement to my holiday decorations.

Next, I'm going to place something on my mantel that was very popular during Victorian times, a mirror. I'm embellishing my mirror with a wreath with a beautiful ribbon. This wreath is from the Studio McGee Christmas collection at Target. In my best of Studio McGee at Target post, I feature other amazing decorations.

Decorating with ribbon definitely goes with the Victorian style. This post about decorating with wreaths will assist you in how to hang a wreath on a mirror.

Decorating the Garlands

I found a beautiful bell garland with a lovely gold patina at Kirkland's a few years ago. I'm adding them to the mistletoe garland by layering it over, keeping the string from the bells close to the “branch” of the garland. I occasionally weave some of the mistletoe around the bells to blend the two pieces together.

This bell garland is so versatile. Last year I used it in our farmhouse vintage Christmas table centerpiece on our dining table.

Decorating with Candles

Now I'm going to decorate the top of the mantel with candles in brass candlestick holders. I love these battery powered candles! I think these are a great idea, especially in areas where you have flammable objects like wreaths and ribbons. They're safe, realistic, and can be operated with a remote control.

The candlestick holders are the perfect way to camouflage the nails that hold the garland and bells in place.

Decorating with Stockings

Next, hang sock stockings on the mantel with a small nail. You could also use a command hook if you prefer.

Now we need something in the middle as a focal point. I thought about a small piece of art, but then I remembered these vintage skates. So I added vintage skates in the middle and decorated it with a beautiful velvet blue ribbon.

The thing I love about the sock stockings and the ribbon I used on the skates is that, rather than be perfectly polished like most modern decorations; they have an organic quality that goes wonderfully with the Victorian theme.

Lastly, I add a larger blue velvet ribbon in the middle of the mantel that looks adorable next to my printable of Santa Claus in an ornate gold frame. Using printables is a good idea as they're an easy way to change up your decor at an inexpensive price.

Isn't this Father Christmas print adorable? You can download and print him in our Etsy shop.

Decorating the Hearth for Christmas

In addition to the mantel, you'll want to consider decorating your hearth. I'm putting my vintage rocking horse on the hearth with a little garland and ribbon decoration around his neck for a finishing touch. Decorating the hearth is a great way to balance the decor around the fireplace.

Victorian Blue Christmas Tree Decorations

In the Victorian era, they used real trees for Christmas trees. I kept this in mind when I chose the artificial tree that I thought was the most realistic looking and appropriate for our Christmas tree theme, and I absolutely love this beautiful tree.

Artificial trees have come a long way to looking incredibly realistic. This lovely tree from King of Christmas has a rustic look and is pre-lit with small white Christmas lights and ready for Christmas tree decorations.

When it comes to Christmas tree decorating, Victorian Christmas tree decorations are simple and elegant.

This tree is decorated with the blue ribbons that I used on the mantel, wool mice ornaments, homemade air-dry clay ornaments, delicate glass ornaments, and jingle bells I sanded and bronzed with Rub n Buff.

I love all of these simple, beautiful ornaments. I also used my old Christmas tree candles that are perfect for the Victorian Christmas theme. Silver and gold ornaments are perfect for this vibe.

The best thing is that I'm topping the tree with a simple light wood star I found at Target that has an amazing clip device so it's super easy to attach to your tree. Ingenious!

Our vintage Christmas tree is complete and ready for Christmas presents.

Final Thoughts

Let's look at the fireplace and the tree together. How beautifully it turned out!

This was my first time decorating with a blue color palette, and I absolutely love it. Honestly, I do not know why I haven't decorated with blue at Christmas since it is my favorite color. To incorporate more of the blue velvet ribbon you saw in this post in my Christmas decor, I created an adorable Christmas village wreath and I wanted to share easy step-by-step instructions so you can create your own.

I hope you enjoyed these blue Christmas decoration ideas with hints of vintage Victorian. I think my living room has been transformed into a Victorian-era sitting room. Maybe you even got some ideas for your living or family room. You should check out my Christmas candlelight home tour to see all my holiday decor and how candlelight changes the ambience.

I'd love to hear how it goes with your Christmas decorations! Merry Christmas and have a wonderful holiday season!

Happy Decorating!

Blue Christmas Decoration Ideas with Hints of Vintage Victorian

Here are blue Christmas decoration ideas for your fireplace mantel and Christmas tree, and they all have a modern Victorian twist.

Materials

Tools

Thomas Kincade print
Mirror
Cedar wreath by Threshold Studio McGee
Battery-powered candles
Brass candlestick holders
Victorian Santa printable
Mistletoe garland
Bell garland
Sock Stockings
Vintage skates
Light blue velvet ribbon
Dusty blue velvet ribbon
Vintage rocking horse
Vintage sled
King of Christmas tree
Star for the top of tree
Wool mice ornaments
Christmas tree candles
Jingle bells sanded and bronzed with Rub n Buff
Homemade air-dry clay ornaments
Glass ornaments

Instructions

One thing you'll see in Victorian Christmas decorations is natural elements. So I'm starting with mistletoe garland on my mantel and a beautiful print that was a gift from my sister years ago. It's the perfect complement to my holiday decorations.
Next, I'm going to place something on my mantel that was very popular during Victorian times, a mirror. I'm embellishing my mirror with a wreath with a beautiful ribbon. Decorating with ribbon definitely goes with the Victorian style.
I found a beautiful bell garland at Kirkland's a few years ago that has a lovely gold patina. I'm adding them to the mistletoe garland by layering it over, keeping the string from the bells close to the "branch" of the garland. I weave some of the mistletoe around the bells occasionally to blend the two pieces together.
I'm going to decorate the top of the mantel with candles in brass candlestick holders. I love these battery powered candles. The candlestick holders are the perfect way to camouflage the nails that hold the garland and bells in place.
I'm hanging sock stockings on the mantel with a small nail. You could also use a command hook if you prefer. I'm adding vintage skates in the middle, decorated with some beautiful ribbon.
I add a larger blue velvet ribbon in the middle of the mantel that looks adorable next to my printable of Santa Claus in an ornate gold frame. Using printables are a good idea as they're an easy way to change up your decor.
In addition to the mantel, you'll want to consider decorating your hearth. I'm putting my vintage rocking horse on the hearth with a little garland and ribbon decoration around his neck for a finishing touch.
My lovely tree has a rustic look and is pre-lit with small white Christmas lights and ready for Christmas tree decorations.
When it comes to Christmas tree decorating, Victorian Christmas tree decorations are simple and elegant. I'll be decorated it with the blue ribbons that I used on the mantel, wool mice ornaments, homemade air-dry clay ornaments, delicate glass ornaments, and jingle bells I sanded and bronzed with Rub n Buff.
I also found Christmas tree candles that are perfect for the Victorian Christmas theme.
I'm topping the tree with a simple light wood star I found at Target that has an amazing clip device so it's super easy to attach to your tree. Our vintage Christmas tree is complete and ready for Christmas presents.

The post Blue Christmas Decoration Ideas with Hints of Vintage Victorian appeared first on LIFE ON SUMMERHILL.

Friendsgiving Table Setting That Will Warm Your Guest’s Hearts

Linda McDonald — Sat, 19 Nov 2022 10:45:00 +0000

Today let's talk about this easy Friendsgiving table setting that looks challenging but is pretty simple. This Thanksgiving table made for friends can be used for any fall or autumn occasion, but we are focusing on friends for this post.

Last year my niece borrowed my Thanksgiving table decorations for her Friendsgiving party so this year, I thought it would be fun to create a Friendsgiving table setting that looks fancy and includes easy cleanup.

Friendsgiving Table Setting

This year I enlisted the help of Joanna Gaines' Hearth and Hand foliage for this table, battery-powered candles, and Spode china paper plates. But before we look over the shopping list, you might ask what is Friendsgiving?

What is Friendsgiving?

Friendsgiving is a Thanksgiving celebration with friends rather than a traditional family gathering. Typically the decor and food are similar, but the only difference is the guests. This time of year is perfect to celebrate good friends. No matter who is on your guest list, this table setting will be a hit.

This post contains affiliate links, meaning I receive a commission if you purchase using the links below at no extra cost to you. All opinions are all my own.

Friendsgiving Table Setting Supplies

Gingham tablecloth (sometimes called Buffalo check)
Dollar Tree chargers painted white (I used Dixie Belle chalk paint)
Spode Thanksgiving paper plates (I found mine at TJ Maxx, but they are on Etsy too)
Silverware (I used Michael Angelo by Oneida)
Clear drinking glasses (I used stemless champagne flutes, but you can use anything)
Wall hanging basket
Fall foliage (I used Hearth and Hand from Target)
Sheer 1 1/2″ white ribbon
Brass candlesticks
Battery powered taper candles
Wooden swan (I found mine at Goodwill, but here is a similar swan set)
Faux fur rug

How to Set a Friendsgiving Table

Friendsgiving Tablecloth

If you've been following me for a while, you know I often use blankets as tablecloths, but this time, I chose to go with a lovely Gingham tablecloth, sometimes called buffalo check, in beautiful fall colors. You can layer your tablecloth with another set at a diagonal or table runner. I decided to go with the single layer for this particular table setting.

Friendsgiving Centerpiece

Your guests' eyes will be drawn to the center of the table and your Friendsgiving table decor. I created this beautiful centerpiece using items I already had on hand. I used this hanging basket from my front door and laid it on the table. Then I took the fall foliage from my mantel, placed it in the basket, and let it flow out. Look around your home, you're likely to find just what your need for your table decor idea.

I placed sheer 1 1/2″ white ribbon through and over the basket to the other side. These little details are what make your centerpiece stand out.

I finished the look with some mini pumpkins on either side, placing two on the end that don't have the foliage to create interest. I sprinkled a few acorns that I picked up with my little nephew on our walk. We had so much fun! It's a great way to get the kids involved.

Finally, I added brass candlesticks and battery powered taper candles. I love these battery powered taper candles because I can leave them on as long as I like, and the best part is I don't have to worry about messy wax.

Did you notice the little swan? I found him at Goodwill and just fell in love. He's such a sweet addition to the centerpiece. You can find similar wooden swans here. I love fun decor pieces like this!

Friendsgiving Place Settings

I started with a white charger that I got at Dollar Tree. For those unfamiliar, a charger takes the place of a place mat. The chargers were gold when I bought them, and I painted them white (I used Dixie Belle chalk paint). If you do this, don't worry about making it perfect. Even if you can see some gold through it, it gives it a nice distressed look.

I found these beautiful Spode Thanksgiving paper plates and matching decorative napkins (I found mine at TJ Maxx, but they are on Etsy too). It's an easy way to achieve an elegant look. I trailed the napkin off the side and placed the paper dinner plate in the center of the charger. Not only are these plates and napkins beautiful, but they also make cleanup a snap.

I used my Mother's Michaelangelo silverware. The design on it really complements the design on the plates. I finished off the place settings with stemless champagne flutes. The simple, slender glass is perfect next to the busy plate design. Each place setting is simple yet elegant.

One Last Detail

I love to finish off my table design with something on the bench. This year, I'm using a white faux fur rug. It's the perfect way to keep your guests cozy. It's soft and comfortable and is warm to sit on. The little details like this are what make your Friendsgiving dinner special.

Final Thoughts

I hope you've found this Thanksgiving table setting helpful and that it's given you ideas for your own Friendsgiving celebration or Thanksgiving dinner party this holiday season. It's sure to make this special occasion feel extra special. I love that this set would work just as well on an outdoor table as your dining room table. Here are a few other beautiful table setting designs I think you'll love:

I'd love to hear about your Friendsgiving table ideas or Thanksgiving day traditions. Whatever you do to celebrate, I hope you have a wonderful time!

Happy decorating!

If you enjoyed this post, sign up to receive new decor ideas each week. FREE EMAIL SUBSCRIPTION

The post Friendsgiving Table Setting That Will Warm Your Guest’s Hearts appeared first on LIFE ON SUMMERHILL.

DIY Sheet Ghost Halloween Decoration in 4 Simple Steps

Linda McDonald — Sat, 29 Oct 2022 10:00:22 +0000

This Halloween ghost light craft is so easy to make and is a fun Halloween project. Recently I shared a DIY sheet ghost Halloween decoration on my Instagram, and it got great views plus lots of questions. So I decided to put the steps into a blog post. Making a ghost out of a sheet this way is the easiest Halloween decoration you will ever make.

This Halloween season, my daughter Hannah and I went with a vintage retro aesthetic. We transformed the mantel using one of her Etsy printables and started working on the hearth with a DIY Halloween ghost idea. Halloween crafts are a fun idea for you to do alone or with your kids and Halloween ghosts are a staple of the season.

For many years we would spend most of our time and energy on the mantel shelf, and the hearth would be lacking. But this year, we wanted the hearth to be as dramatic as the shelf, so we decided to make a DIY ghost decoration using items around the house. I think this easy project would be a great idea for your Halloween party.

This post contains affiliate links, meaning I receive a commission if you purchase using the links below at no extra cost to you. All opinions are all my own.

DIY Sheet Ghost Halloween Decoration

Halloween ghost decorations are an easy way to bring Halloween home. The best part about this DIY Halloween ghost is the simple supply list. Gather these items, and then let's get started.

Tall stand or, in our case, a baby doll high chair
Victorian lamp or you can use a styrofoam ball (if you use a ball, you will need some Christmas string lights to sit under it)
White sheet or white fabric where the width is long enough to go down all sides (we used a full-size flat sheet)
Black construction paper or black felt
Wrapping tape
Ryobi mini generator

Shop the post:

Making a Ghost out of a Sheet

Did I mention this Halloween ghost light only takes about 30 minutes or less to make? It is genuinely the easiest decoration I have pulled together.

Now let's decide where you want your child-size ghost. Remember, we placed ours on the hearth, but you can set yours anywhere inside your home or on your front porch. I am thinking of moving mine to the porch for Halloween night.

Step 1: Ghost stand

First, let's build the stand for the ghost. Place your stand or baby doll high chair in my case, then set your lamp or ball on top for the head of the ghost.

If you are using a victorian lamp, you will need to remove the globe on the top and then the glass bulb cover. Not all Victorian lamps have this piece inside but ours did I guess for aesthetics. The main thing is that you need the top of the globe to be smooth.

At this step, use a warm light bulb in the lower sphere of the victorian lamp. Use a low watt like 25 watt and an edison bulb would make a nice warm light.

If you are using Christmas light strings, make sure they are warm-colored. Next, if you're using the Victorian lamp, turn on the lower sphere because later, when we light the ghost, you won't have to reach up there to turn it on.

Now that you have your foundation, let me show you how to drape the flat sheet over the base.

Step 2: Sheet Ghost

The ghost shape is easy to achieve. Find the center of your sheet, then place the center on the top of the ghost stand. Make sure the sheet is evenly distributed around the ghost base.

Next, fold under any excess sheet material. Do not puddle but tuck the extra sheet material under where the sheet hangs down. Once you have all the excess sheet tucked under, pull the flat sheet forward, so it flows outward from the ghost. Your Halloween ghost craft is almost done!

Step 3: Ghost Eyes and Mouth

We only have a few more steps, and this project is complete. It's time to decorate the ghost's head. Use construction paper or black felt and cut out the eyes and mouth in an oval shape. Our eyes and mouth are about 2 inches long.

Subsequently, use some tape to adhere the eyes and mouth onto the ghost. We used regular clear tape and looped it where the sticky was on the outside. So far, they have not fallen off. If you're using an old sheet you will only be using for this decoration, you can use a glue gun to attach the eyes.

Remember to bring the eyes down on the head where a human's eyes would be. I originally had them too high, and once my daughter pulled them down, it made this adorable ghost look more realistic.

Step 4: How to Light your Sheet Ghost

I want to introduce you to the most fantastic tool Ryobi has ever made — a mini generator. LOL! You may find me saying that about their other Ryobi tools in other posts, but honestly, this is one of my favorites.

This little powerhouse will light up your Halloween ghost, and you can hide it under the ghost. Isn't that awesome? No unsightly cords running across the floor. I have also used it on my cottage farmhouse Christmas porch to illuminate my garland.

Simply plug your lamp or lights into your mini generator, and light magic, you have a child-size Ghost light. This little thing makes me laugh every time I light it up.

Every night, when you want to light your ghost, place the battery pack on the mini generator and tap the button on top. Your little ghost will illuminate beautifully.

How to Make a Life Size Ghost

Now that we made a toddler size ghost I thought you might like to know how to make an even larger ghost. A simple way to make a life size ghost is to use a taller stand like a plant stand with anything that is round on the top. You can use a basketball, lamp with a round shaped shade or styrofoam ball as the head. I'm sure you'll devise a creative idea. Then add a sheet and eyes made from black construction paper or felt and you have an adult size ghost.

Final Thoughts

Okay, wasn't that great fun and easy? Even if you are having a last minute event, you'll still have plenty of time to put one of the best DIY halloween decorations together. Kids of all ages will love this ghostly fun Halloween decoration this spooky season. It would make a great addition to your front yard or front porch on Halloween night. After we finished decorating our living room, fireplace, and mantel, my little nieces and nephews came over. I wondered if any of them would be scared of our sweet little ghost, and to my surprise, they weren't concerned. I think they were more concerned with the display of candy they were allowed to eat. LOL! Just another reason I think these ghosts make are perfect decorations for Halloween.

Here are other Halloween easy DIY crafts you might like:

So many fun Halloween decoration DIY to choose from and they are fun to do with family members. Now I am dying to know where you plan to make a sheet ghost. Is it going on your front porch, fireplace hearth, or playroom? Share in the comments all about it.

Thank you so much for stopping by, and I hope this simple DIYHalloween ghost craft will bring the holiday spirit into your decorations. If you have any questions, please feel free to ask in the comment. I'd love to hear your easy DIY halloween decorations. Have a wonderful and safe happy Halloween.

Happy Decorating!

Yield: 1

DIY Sheet Ghost Halloween Decoration in 4 Simple Steps

This Halloween ghost light craft is so easy to make and is a fun Halloween project.

Active Time 30 minutes

Total Time 30 minutes

Difficulty Easy

Materials

Tall stand or, in our case, a baby doll high chair
Victorian lamp or you can use a styrofoam ball (if you use a ball, you will need some Christmas string lights to sit under it)
White sheet
Black construction paper or black felt
Wrapping tape
Ryobi mini generator

Instructions

Place your stand, or baby doll high chair in my case, then set your lamp or ball on top for the head of the ghost.
If you are using a victorian lamp, you will need to remove the globe on the top and then the glass bulb cover.
Use a warm light bulb in the lower sphere of the victorian lamp. Use a low watt like 25 watt and an edison bulb would make a nice warm light.
If you're using the Victorian lamp, turn on the lower sphere because later, when we light the ghost, you won't have to reach up there to turn it on.
Find the center of your sheet, then place the center on the top of the ghost stand. Make sure the sheet is evenly distributed around the ghost base.
Next, fold under any excess sheet material. Do not puddle but tuck the extra sheet material under where the sheet hangs down.
Pull the flat sheet forward, so it flows outward from the ghost.
Use construction paper or black felt and cut out the eyes and mouth in an oval shape.
Use some tape to adhere the eyes and mouth onto the ghost.
Plug your lamp or lights into your mini generator to avoid unsightly cords running across the floor.
When you want to light your ghost, place the battery pack on the mini generator and tap the button on top.

Notes

If you are using Christmas light strings, make sure they are warm-colored.
A simple way to make a life size ghost is to use a taller stand like a plant stand with anything that is round on the top. You can use a basketball, lamp with a round shaped shade or styrofoam ball as the head. Then add a sheet and eyes made from black construction paper or felt and you have an adult size ghost.

The post DIY Sheet Ghost Halloween Decoration in 4 Simple Steps appeared first on LIFE ON SUMMERHILL.

A Bright and Colorful Retro Halloween Home Tour 2022

Linda McDonald — Sat, 22 Oct 2022 10:00:00 +0000

This year our Halloween home tour incorporates a bright and colorful traditional Halloween color scheme and takes us back to the 50s for good old-fashioned retro Halloween decor ideas.

Halloween is a favorite holiday at our house and Halloween decorating is an event here. Last year my daughter, Hannah, created a witch's den on our mantel with vintage Halloween decorations. I created these dollar store DIY Jack o lanterns for decorations and an outdoor Halloween party table. This year we decided to brighten the color scheme and continue with a vintage aesthetic. This Halloween home tour has 1950s old-time trick-or-treating written all over it.

This post contains affiliate links, meaning I receive a commission if you purchase using the links below at no extra cost to you. All opinions are all my own.

Halloween Home Tour

Take a guess where this year's theme all started. You are correct if you guessed the large retro Halloween art on the mantel. Hannah designed this fun retro printable and it is for sale in our Etsy shop. The color scheme and vintage vibe inspired all our Halloween decorations for this year.

Retro Halloween Mantel Decorations

Using one piece of art can make our whole design plan work together and unify your space. This art has orange, black, off-white, and yellow color schemes. Plus, it has a fun trick-or-treating friendly kids vibe. So here is how the mantel turned out. If you want more details on how we created this retro mantel, hop over to this blog post with vintage inspired Halloween decor mantel ideas.

Because the fireplace mantel is a focal point in our living room, all the other decorations are added details that complement the mantel. If you like my ghostly friend, check out my post on how to make this DIY sheet ghost holiday decoration in only four steps. So let's take a step back and look at the other table decorations around the room.

Halloween Living Room Table Decorations

The color scheme and the joyful Halloween retro vibe were the focus of all the end tables. On our table, between the chairs, we simply place books and these jolly stacked pumpkins. Is there anything cuter than pumpkins in witch hats? So much fun!

Next to the sofa, we brought out one of our favorite retro Halloween decorations of this Beistle Halloween design. We can imagine this vintage Jack-o-lantern, black cat, and trick-or-treating kid's design was on a Halloween card in the 50s.

Sitting beside the old card design is a black Jack-o-lantern that lights up on a stack of books. Varying heights of these three items is a design trick to make your decoration assemble balance and flow.

Under the television was the perfect spot for this large-mouth Jack o lantern, but he needed something to make him even more unique, so we filled his mouth and the chest counter with vintage brand candies or as close to vintage as we could find. It was the perfect addition. LOL!

Halloween Dining Table Centerpiece

Across the room from my living room is our informal dining room table. While visiting my sister, I saw these adorable ghosts. They had vintage written all over them. So we simply sat the ghosts on the table along with fresh pumpkins in our color scheme, and like magic, we had the simplest and easiest centerpiece I think we have ever made and adds a great Halloween touch to the dining area.

My sister said she bought these ghosts years ago at the dollar store. I will add a link here and share where I found them if I ever encounter any.

Don't these ghosts remind you of the ghost on the fireplace hearth? Repetition is another excellent designer trick.

Halloween Entryway Decor

Last is our entryway. Actually, I probably should have started here since if you were touring our house for Halloween, that is where you would enter. But for this tour, we will end up at the door. I kept the dried leaves from our fall decorating ideas on our entryway table. We then added old books to elevate this old ceramic Jack-o-lantern with ghosts.

I just thought that maybe this year was not only a 1950s theme, but Jack o lanterns and ghosts also seemed to be the focus.

The funny thing about this decoration is that I made it long before I was married, probably 35 years ago. For many years when money was tight, this was our only Halloween decoration. Boy, have things changed. Now we go all out on Halloween by reusing pieces from years past and trying to make inexpensive things, like the printable art in our Etsy shop.

Halloween Decorations for Bookshelves

I just thought of one more thing and, if your budget is tight, you will love this one. Look at this cute candle I found while thrifting. I picked this cute candle Jack-o-lantern up, put him in the freezer and popped out the candle. Then I placed a Dollar Tree tea light battery-powered candle inside and added a sweet decoration to our bookcases.

The funny thing about this decoration is that I placed it in a boo-basket to boo my little nephews and their mom for Halloween. I ended up spray painting the Jack-o-lantern gold on the inside and white on the outside so she could put him on her tiered tray.

Final Thoughts

I hope you have enjoyed this year's Halloween home tour. Everything was pretty simple, and we tried to keep the cost down by using things we already had and taking advantage of thrifting, Etsy, dollar stores, TJ Maxx, Homegoods, and making decorations. Hitting a yard sale, thrift store or estate sales are all great ideas for finding unique holiday decor.

Decorating for Halloween doesn't have to break the bank. All our printables in our Etsy shop are under 5 dollars, and we run sales all the time, so check out our Etsy shop for ideas for your holiday decorating.

Again, I hope you enjoyed this Halloween virtual tour and that it inspired you to decorate your home for Halloween. What theme will your Halloween decorations be this year? I thought of a few other fun themes you might enjoy:

Haunted house
Hocus Pocus
Ghost stories
Monster mash
Mad Scientist

I'd love to hear your creative ideas. Happy Halloween!

Happy Decorating!

The post A Bright and Colorful Retro Halloween Home Tour 2022 appeared first on LIFE ON SUMMERHILL.

Vintage Inspired Halloween Decor Mantel Ideas

Linda McDonald — Sat, 15 Oct 2022 10:00:28 +0000

Here are simple ideas to decorate your mantel for Halloween with a retro vintage aesthetic. These cheap and affordable vintage inspired Halloween decor ideas take you back to the 50s and are fun and easy to recreate.

When I was growing up, my mom was all into Halloween. She loved decorating outside, dressing up like a witch, and handing out candy to all the kids in the neighborhood. As a family, we had a blast working together to create a spooky house and then got lots of giggles when kids would come to our home for trick or treating. It was one of our favorite time of year.

Today, my daughters and I still love to decorate for Halloween. Last year our old-fashioned Halloween mantel was designed by my daughter, Hannah, and this year she has done it again with classic halloween decorations and fun vintage inspired Halloween decor ideas for your mantel.

This post contains affiliate links, meaning I receive a commission if you purchase using the links below at no extra cost to you. All opinions are all my own.

Vintage Inspired Halloween Decor for your Mantel

If you have been around me very long, you know I encourage everyone to find an inspiration piece when developing a design. For our mantel, this beistle inspired Halloween printable is where it all began. Well, that and our love for vintage decor. LOL!

So to start this project, here is a supply list of what you will need if you want to recreate this retro Halloween fireplace mantel.

Retro Halloween printable art and frame
Moon face art
Halloween garland (bats and felt balls)
Jack o lanterns (dollar store plastic ones and smaller ones)
Battery powered candles
Cake and cupcake stands
Vintage retro radio
Ghost DIY
Tall candle stick holders
Black paper bats (we made ours, but I found these on Etsy)

Now that we have the supply list, let's start building this vintage inspired Halloween mantel.

Shop the post:

How to Make a Vintage Inspired Halloween Mantel

When decorating your mantel with a vintage vibe, you will want new and old pieces that fit the period. Let's make a statement with a large piece of art filled with colors that were popular during Halloween in the 50s.

Step 1: Large Beistle Halloween Printable

This beistle inspired Halloween print can be easily printed from our Etsy shop. All you do after you purchase it is to download print and frame. We have many more designs you can choose from if you want to create something a little different.

This print is 20″ x 30″ and was printed at Walgreens. If you go to the Walgreens photo lab online, you can upload the print and pick it up on the same day. Also, I search the internet for coupons and usually get them for 50% off.

Next, I found the frame from Walgreens, right by the photo lab counter. For some reason, the plexiglass on the front of the frame was bowed, so I asked for a discount and got it for 40% off.

By the time I was finished, I paid under $25 for this large piece of art. That's not bad for a piece of large art for a holiday. Now let's talk about the moon man sitting next to him.

Step 2: Smaller Halloween Art or Printable

For the next piece, you will want something a little smaller. We used our moon man or man on the moon Hannah drew last year.

If you do not have a large moon face, we have a printable option in our Etsy shop here. The same moon face is on our mantel but with a quote. You can print it larger and cut it out or keep the print like it is and frame it.

Now set your man on the moon, slightly covering the beistle inspired print, and you are ready for the next step, adding accessories.

Step 3: Fireplace Mantel Halloween Accessories

Things are starting to get fun now. First, let's place traditional orange jack-o-lanterns on the ends with battery-powered candles inside. I grabbed these orange Jack o lanterns from my Harry Potter table decorations. When I did the party idea, I cut their eyes, nose, and mouths out, making them perfect for this project.

On one side of the mantel, set a cake stand and an orange Jack-o-lantern. Then on the left, set the orange jack-o-lantern directly on the mantle. Don't forget your battery candles.

Next, place a retro-style radio on the left side and a cupcake stand on the right with a smaller jack-o lantern.

Our radio came from Homegoods, but I found many more with a similar look in this online shop. I love the vintage look, these are my absolute favorites. It is the coolest thing ever because it plays tunes and has fun news and radio broadcasters that sound like witches, Dracula, and many more.

The choices are endless and I'll bet you can find some adorable vintage Halloween decorations at your nearby thrift stores. Or maybe your family has passed on some vintage halloween items.

Step 4: Halloween Garlands

Next on our agenda are garlands on the front of the mantel. Using the color scheme of black, orange, and off-white, we found this cute felt ball garland and bat garland to dress up the front of the fireplace.

Step 5: Paper Bats

You will notice that the mantel design is heavy on the right. To combat that problem, we printed bats on black paper, cut them out, and created bats flying from the back of my antique mora clock across and over to the prints on the mantel. These also make great, inexpensive Halloween party decorations.

See how things are starting to get batty around here? LOL! Repeating the bats from the Beistle art and the bats on the garland is a designer's trick of repetition and gradation. Your spooky decor is nearly complete. Now that the top of the fireplace is finished, let's don't forget the hearth.

Step 6: Halloween Decor for the Hearth

So often, I have neglected the hearth when decorating our fireplace for holidays, but this year Hannah and I focused just as much on the hearth. We decided to go with something more prominent, like this ghost.

There are so many ways you can make a ghost like this. Simply think of something round that sits on top of something tall. But make sure what is sitting under the ball is not as wide as the ball. Here is our clever trick for making a ghost.

First, we placed my mom's old baby doll high chair on the hearth, then set my grandma's old lamp on top. This lamp was perfect for two reasons. First, it provided a round head for the ghost and a creepy light inside. LOL!

Next, we draped a thin sheet on top of the ghost and taped black construction paper oval dots for the eyes. Last, I used a Ryobi mini generator under the chair with a battery and plugged in the lamp. Like magic, we have a three-foot ghost that is almost the star of the show. You can get the details in my post on a DIY sheet ghost Halloween decoration in 4 simple steps.

We placed tall candlestick holders painted black with vintage jack-o-lanterns on the other side of the hearth.

Final Thoughts

After your vintage Halloween mantel is done, sprinkle more vintage-inspired decorations around the room. We added a real pumpkin on the coffee table, a bowl of faux white, and real pumpkins.

On the dining table, we added more mini pumpkins in the orange color along with cute vintage-looking ghosts I borrowed from my sister. Little pumpkins are endlessly fun to decorate with at Halloween. This would also be a great place for a vintage-looking black cat decoration.

Once you have everything set, you are all ready for a movie night, a Halloween party, or for your everyday Halloween decorations. We love turning the light off at night when sitting down to watch tv and turning on all the candles and the ghost light.

I hope you enjoyed our vintage-inspired halloween decor. If you'd like to see more of my Halloween decor, check out my Halloween home tour. Do you love to decorate for Halloween? Maybe you even have authentic vintage halloween decor passed down through your family. If so, we have many more ideas like these printable Halloween decorations or these Halloween party table decoration ideas, and you will love this simple DIY dollar store Jack o lantern. I'd love to see your Halloween table display. Happy Halloween!

Happy Decorating!

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The post Vintage Inspired Halloween Decor Mantel Ideas appeared first on LIFE ON SUMMERHILL.

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GET HOME DECOR & DIY IDEAS TO YOUR INBOX . . .

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GET HOME DECOR & DIY IDEAS TO YOUR INBOX . . .

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