Cheap and Easy Christmas Mantel in 3 Simple Steps

Here is a comprehensive guide on how to pull together a cheap and easy Christmas mantel in 4 simple steps.

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Mantels just might be one of the most daunting places to style in a home (right next to bookshelves, of course). Having a tv above your mantel can help, because it isn’t this big open space that you have to fill. But regardless of whether or not you have a tv above your mantel, here are some easy (and cheap) tips to decorating your mantel for Christmas.

#1 Garland

When I saw this garland, I was in love. It’s 8′ or 9′ long, it’s flocked, it has wiring in each piece so it’s easily bendable/shapeable and that’s not even the best part…… it was only $12!!! You can find it here.

This garland really makes my mantel. I’ve always wanted to flock my tree, but we get a real one and to flock it every year seems like a pain (and a mess)…. If we bought an artificial one, I’d definitely buy it already flocked. But I’m not sure that I’m willing to give up my real tree anytime soon (or ever). Anyone else with me?? It just smells so good.

Some garland is too thin. This garland, especially draped over my wood planter thing (idk what it’s called), looks nice and full and thick. Which is the dream!

I also made this red and white twine “Pom Pom Garland” a few weeks ago, you can find that here.

#2 Stockings

Stockings are a fun addition to any mantel around Christmas. Especially when they’re custom to each person. The “J” and “A” stockings are from Marshall’s a while back, but you can find the “M” stocking in any letter here.

You really can’t go wrong with a chunky knit stocking. Cream, white, red, green, black and white patterned, you name it. There are so many cute options out there that will really add to your mantel this year.

#3 Twinkle Lights

Battery operate twinkle lights are the way to go. I’ve had mine for a few years (you really have to look for them in this picture, since it’s bright out) but you can find some like mine here.

These lights are so cute and cozy. The only thing to note is that you want to make sure you buy the warm white lights. If they’re “cool” white, it doesn’t feel quite so cozy. Think Walmart store overhead lighting… I don’t know about you, but that isn’t exactly what I think of when I think “cozy”.

The other beautiful thing with these is that they don’t have a cord that plugs into the wall. It’s just a battery pack with a switch that you can hide anywhere. One less cord to hide and plug in. YAY.

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