Summery Mantle

It's been a while since I switched up my mantle so I thought I needed to do it today. It's a quick way to make a big change. I do wish I could do something in place of the tv but that's the one thing that needs to stay. I wanted to add in some summery touches with shells and blues & whites. This is what I came up with: I placed white votives in some jars I had to make DIY candle holders. I put sugar in the bottom but I really think salt or sand would be preferable. But as with much of my decorating I like to use what I have. You may remember the silver vase from my DIY Mercury Glass post. Although it doesn't really look like mercury glass I still love it and use the heck out of it.

This shell print was printed from the Graphics Fairy. If you haven't been there you need to check it out. Karen has a wonderful array of graphics available for download. The tiny blue vase is a new purchase from our vacation. I couldn't resist it!

I love the apothecary jars I got for Christmas. They have hundreds of uses and I really enjoy changing them out every so often. The cute tag is some scrapbook card stock I trimmed up and added ribbon and buttons too. I am quite smitten with it! :)

Another close up of the faux mercury glass vase. You know, this vase is one I kept after I had flowers delivered one time. I loved the shape and knew I would reuse it. I am lucky enough to have it's bigger sister which I haven't painted yet. But you know I am tempted!

So, for very little money (I got the light blue vase for $20 with my vacation money) I once again transformed my mantle. I think we all have so much laying around our house that isn't always used (am I a the only one with a cabinet dedicated to candles, frames and other decor?) It's a project I really enjoy so I usually do it quite often. And you know we look at it constantly since the TV is right there!

Do you have an area in your home that gets lots of attention in the form of redecorating?

I am linking up to Nifty Thrifty Tuesdays @ Coastal Charm,Feathered Nest Friday @ The French Country Cottage, Frugal Friday @ The Shabby Nest, Transformations and Treasures at the Pink Postcard & Open House Party@ No Minimalist Here (and check out Sherri's beautiful beach house).