Saturday, December 4, 2010

Christmas Mantel for 2010

I have been admiring the many wonderful Christmas mantels that everyone has shared in blog land and thought I would add mine to the mix.


This sweet 'Snowy Owl' caught my eye on a recent visit to a local antique shop. He was the starting inspiration for my Christmas Mantel for 2010.


 Actually, my husband had built the metal doors on our fireplace many years ago including the 2 antique Owl andirons on them as a decorative detail. I suppose I will have to give him the credit for my inspiration. The vintage snow shoe was a Christmas gift from him many years ago, as well - gotta give him his props!


I must also give thanks to 'Donna' at 'Funky Junk Interiors'. She has a stone fireplace and comes up with some wonderful ways of dressing her mantel. I incorporated a couple of her ideas - the 'White Star' and the 'Branches with Ornaments' - from her lovely mantel from last Christmas.


On the dumbwaiter side of the mantel, I placed an old chippy white window. It seemed like the perfect place to hang my twig wreath using a torn piece of white muslin. Using an old board, I stenciled the 'Snowy Owl Inn c.1778' sign.



I stenciled in white first and then offset the stencil with black paint to create the raised effect. To give it some appropriate aging, I lightly sanded the letters, followed with a coat of dark stain and then wiped it down.


I love using old materials to create 'new treasures'.


I hope you have enjoyed my 'Christmas Mantel'. Maybe, it will inspire you too!

 I have linked up to the following parties:
The Lettered Cottage


Until next time ~ Suzanne.

23 comments:

  1. Oh Suzanne, it looks great!
    I love owls so it is pretty special to me and I am a sucker for a nice old sign!

    Audrey

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  2. SIMPLY GORGEOUS MANTLE VIGNETTE!!!**Your owl theme is stunning and your hubby's metal work is phenomenal!

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  3. this is beautiful what a lovely fireplace

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  4. Love it, the owl theme is so different!

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  5. Just hopped over from A Primitive Journey to see more photos, love your sign.

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  6. Suzanne, Thanks so much for stopping by to see my mantel post. Yours is wonderful! I like the stone and those heavy metal doors your husband added. The old window adds a lot to the other side if the fireplace and your inn sign looks so period-style. I, myself, have no painting skills. :-(
    I like the whole rustic appeal of it all. I was looking at your previous post and admiring the scenery. Wow - the view is gorgeous in the fall!
    ~ Sue

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  7. I never would have thought you made that sign. It looks antique! You did a fabulous job on it and the rest of your mantle. It flows really well. It is great to meet you on my blog. I appreciate your sweet comments. Always love making new friends. :) Merry Christmas!

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  8. Suzanne,
    This looks beautiful! I love the iron doors!

    Donna

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  9. I've been seeing more owls for winter/christmas decor this year. Very nice.

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  10. Gorgeous mantle... I just found your blog today, your work is amazing. You are one talented lady and hubby has some well honed skills too... what a team.

    Really enjoyed the "whole" blog... yes I did.

    Hugs, Deb

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  11. I always have the hardest time at Christmas with my mantle. I kept it really simple this year and I actually like it for a change. Yours looks wonderful with all the white. I love that snowy owl and the sign you made for it. It all ties in just perfect!

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  12. It is perfect. The owls on the doors are awesome. Merry Christmas!

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  13. I like the rustic simplicity - great job!

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  14. So funny! I started reading your post and thought... goodness, this feels like something I'd throw together! :) Your rock is so similar to mine and everything!

    I think you've done a wonderful job. You have a challenging area with it being so long. LOVE the window and wreath!

    Donna
    http://funkyjunkinteriors.blogspot.com/

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  15. Suzanne, I love your stone fireplace and the owl andirons. Your mantel looks fabulous with your sign and old window. Beautiful! I hope you will link up to my party that starts 12/15. Hope to see you there.
    Happy Holidays,
    Sherry

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  16. simple yet very beautiful! Love the owls!

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  17. Love your rustic charm! Looks wonderful! I'm your newest follower and would be delighted to have you follow me back!
    Merry Christmas!
    Tammy

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  18. Suzanne, Thank you so much for sharing your beautiful mantel at my party. Happy holidays to you and your family.
    Sherry

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  19. Beautiful decorations~ what a neat theme and the window and stars are delightful as well. Happy Holidays!

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  20. Wow! That's a fabulous mantel! Love the mantel itself and the vignette!
    Merry Christmas to you and your family!
    Theresa
    aka:tot

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  21. I love your mantel - so unique and pretty! That snow owl is so cool. Great job...Merry Christmas! :)

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  22. What a gorgeous fireplace! I can imagine it's fun to decorate. You did a great job of adding natural elements and sparkle!

    Happy New Year!
    xx,
    ~Michelle

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I love reading each and every comment and welcome any questions or feedback you may have.