ALL DIY Projects

A Fall Mantel: 2 Ways {Mantle}

Design + Build

Crafty Projects

Business + Life

Holidays

The Weekender Series

As Seen on TV

Room Makeovers

All DIY Projects

Search...

blog Categories

hey there! I'm monica 

I pride myself on making amazing style and design accessible for everyone, regardless of location, budget, or ability! My design philosophy is rooted in authenticity + attainability - If I can do it, you can too! My work has been featured in countless publications, but I take the most pride in homeowners that have been personally inspired by my DIY ideas and have tried something in their own homes!

learn more about ME + MY BIZ

I know that I’m a little behind on Fall mantle decor, but I thought I’d share what I have going on right now on my newly updated fireplace.  When I stenciled the fireplace, I rearranged the mantel, as well, in a back-to-school/early Fall style.

I loved how light and airy it felt, yet still included some Autumn touches like the rust and yellow books and green apples. Works beautifully with my stencil, doesn’t it?
The books are actually Monica’s that she bought at the barn sale, and I know she wants them back, but I don’t think she realizes how at home they look on my mantel. Maybe these pictures will convince her?!  😉 The propeller thing was an item I found while on vacation at the Jersey shore and I whole-heartedly adore it. The tiles are from the historic Moravian Tile Works not far from my house. I have four of them and each represent a different season.
 But then, I got itching to really fallify my house with rich, deeper colors, so today, I brought out all my junk and got to work. When I’m styling a mantel- or any space for that matter- I like to collect things from all over the house and mess around with them for a while. I should have taken a few outtake pictures, because oh boy, you would have thought I lost my head at some of the arrangements I came up with. I usually try to follow a few simple rules, like grouping in threes and mixing up patterns and textures. So, here’s mantel # 2 for you:
In my opinion, you can’t ever go wrong with pumpkins so I made sure to include them.
Some of the pieces were used in my fall mantel last year, like this copper-colored vase and faux grasses. The mirror was a $4 find at Liberty Thrift Store, that I’ve been holding on to until just the right time.
I’ve had the little dried gourds for years, and the over-sized acorn came from Hobby Lobby.
I always love decorating and redecorating my mantle again and again and again. It’s a sickness.
Do you change your mantel decor to fit the season?
Which style do you prefer: Mantel #1 or #2?
I’m undecided. 🙂

The comments +

  1. Ann says:

    Both mantles are wonderful! I like the “end of summer” coolness of the first and the warm-it-up mantle for the cooler autumn days.

  2. Becky says:

    I think both mantles are amazing, but I love the 2nd one with the warmth of the all the fall colors brought in.. it’s so rich, yet simple. LOVE it- (but the simplicity of the first is nice too) can’t go wrong either way! Great job girl!

  3. Anonymous says:

    Mantle #2 love it. ang

  4. bethandbill says:

    The Giant Acorn – I’m in love! Fall, festive, but not over-the-top-whack-you-in-the-face fall. Just perfect! Digging’ #2 best!

  5. Lisa R. says:

    #2 for sure! So warm, inviting and festive. Definitely sets the mood for the season.

  6. Leslie G says:

    I agree- #2 FOR SURE!! 🙂

  7. Leslie G says:

    P.S. I *NEED* that acorn- is it from HL this year?

  8. Cheryl says:

    Love #2 but I always tend toward more color! Love your blog – Hope it can be full time for you soon!

  9. I love the fall mantle with all the brown and orange accents. It really makes the faux tile pop. But I LOVE fall decor so I am a little partial to # 2.

  10. Judy says:

    I really like both mantles, they have pretty, simple, yet very attractive items arranged in a quite an eye pleasing way. If pressed, I’d choose mantle #2…something about pumpkins gets me everytime.
    I laughed when you said you were getting a slow start on your Fall mantle, I haven’t even decided what I’m going to put on mine! My adult daughter was visiting yesterday and chastised me for not having any of our home “autumnized”. This from a daughter who is a very successful interior designer (NO talent from her Mama, to be sure), yet only VERY occasionally does anything in our house :/ Is she too big to spank?

  11. Anonymous says:

    Definitely #2.

  12. I like mantle #2 best for this time of year. I always change mine up for the seasons. I have a brick fireplace and would love to cover it up with stone so it gives it a more country look. Love what you do!!!

  13. MollyMcButter says:

    I love both mantles, but fo fall I have to go with number two!

    You said you stenciled your fireplace?! Tell me how! I have an almost identical fireplace and mantle in my living room (its gas though, not real BOO!) and its ugly beige marble with an oak mantle. Can I paint the marble!!?? If I can do that, imagine the possibilities!!

  14. Linda says:

    I love them both…my favorite one is the 2nd one. Love your blog!

  15. […] great way to add color and interest to a mantle at the fraction of the cost of cut, fresh flowers. Monica kept it simple with this […]

  16. Caroline says:

    Can you tell me what your wall color is?? I love it!!

  17. irene says:

    Where did your mirror come from.

  18. Margot says:

    What is the color on your wall? I love it!!

  19. Christie says:

    I love to change my decor throughout the year, especially my mantel. Mantel #1 is very pretty, but it looks summery to me. I like mantel #2 for its boldness and warm colors.

Leave a Reply to bethandbill Cancel reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *

This site uses Akismet to reduce spam. Learn how your comment data is processed.

Make a Kid's Mud Kitchen and Produce Stand

DIY PROJECT

Work From Home Corner Office Makeover

VIDEO MAKEOVER

Yard Game Ideas ASO Live! with Kelly + Ryan

DIY IDEAS ON TV

Today Show Nursery Makeover

MAKEOVER

Outdoor Living Space Makeover : Home Becomes

VIDEO MAKEOVER

Must Reads

Get updated on what we're working on

Follow along!