Arranging a Mantel Display
Creating the perfect mantel display can feel never-ending. Carey Johnson takes her time to find an ideal arrangement. Here are her top tips.
- Start with an Anchor. Carey first finds an anchor piece and then works her way outward, framing that piece on either side with items of different sizes and shapes. “If you can find that one thing you love for the center, then you can layer out,” she says. “Find a good piece that’s transitional, not seasonal.”
- Use Large Pieces. Larger pieces you can slip behind your other décor will provide height as well as good style. If you’re stuck, try a mirror or window frame.
- Mix Materials. Carey likes to mix items with different patinas, textures, sizes and shapes. Combining wood, glass and natural elements adds variation and interest. She suggests looking for salvaged spindles or corbels, mirrors, windows or vases.
- Don’t Be Afraid of Change. Continue to rearrange until you’re happy with the final product. When Carey arranges her mantel, she anticipates a lot of trial and error. “I step back, and if I don’t love it, I try something else,” she says.
Want to see the rest of Carey Johnson’s Michigan farmhouse? Check out A Flower-Filled Spring Farmhouse to further inspire you! Of course, don’t forget to follow us on Instagram, Facebook and Pinterest to get your daily dose of farmhouse inspiration!
