Friday, June 20, 2008

On My Mantel


Yes, I realize this is a tad late for Kari & Kijsa's Mantel 101 Party, but better late than never, right?  Anyway, I was a little preoccupied with my news yesterday.  I actually wanted to show you my mantel because I have just this week changed it out using some things I got at my favorite thrift store, for 75% off.




In the gold frame is a bit of antique needlework.  It was originally marked at $50. which was way too steep for my blood.  But at 75% off, I got it for $12.50.  I've had my eye on it for months now, and was lucky to nab it for that price.




In the center above, you can see one of a pair of framed beadwork pictures.  Five dollars, marked down from $20.




Here is a small china dish, and matching cachepot.  With no markings on the bottom, I'm not sure when they were made, but they look a little like Japanese export porcelain with their golden chrysanthemums.  You know me, I'm a sucker for china, especially lidded dishes.




Here is a closeup of the second framed beadwork picture.  I was actually just going to buy this one, because the colors are better for the room, but the woman who runs the store offered to give them both to me for $5.  I felt bad accepting that, because the store benefits charity, so I bought both for $5. each.  Still quite a bargain.




The moss topiaries on either side of the mantel were made by yours truly many years ago.  They are shedding terribly, but I love the color of the moss, which has faded over the years to a lovely mix of olive greens.

So that's my mantel -- hope you enjoyed the little tour.  To see some truly fabulous mantels, follow this link to Kari & Kijsa's blog, and scroll down to "Mantels 101."  Enjoy!

19 comments:

  1. It looks great, Mary. I love your clock in the center in front of the mirror. All your "new" things finish it off perfectly. You are a phenomenal shopper. I have something shedding, too, and I just think people shouldn't notice.

    I have built-in bookcases on either side of my fireplace. The left side of mine has a cabinet, and the right side has a desk.

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  2. Looks like you got some great bargains and I love the symmetry. Good thing you got both tall needlework pictures:>) You have quite the needlework collection, do you do any embroidery yourself?

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  3. I would like to come over and have a cup of tea in that cozy room. K?

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  4. Mary, your mantel is beautiful! The needlework & beadwork is wonderful.

    Your topiaries have aged into such lovely things! You are right to keep them, they "go" so perfectly with your decor.

    Thanks for sharing, Chris

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  5. Hi, Mary ...

    Thank you for visiting my Southern Lagniappe, and for taking the time to leave a note. I'm so glad it led me to your elegant "Little Red House." I enjoyed seeing pictures of your lovely home, especially your mantel and thrift store finds. You put it all together beautifully.

    Congratulations on having your photo of your doorknob featured in Old House Journal. That's quite a feather in your cap and I know you are proud and excited.

    I'm so glad I found your Little Red House and will be back to visit soon.

    Sincerely,
    Janie

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  6. I'm such a symmetrical person - I am in love with your fireplace mantel arrangement and the bookcases on either side...The whole room is so inviting and homey looking! And back to the little Chip(s) for a minute - yes, they LOVE unsalted roasted peanuts and will be eating out of your hand immediately to get them!...Donna

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  7. Love this arrangement...and your treasures are fabulous!! Your needlework finds are wonderful!! And your display is perfect! Great inspiration, and beautiful!!

    blessings,
    kari & kijsa

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  8. Your mantel looks super...more good finds! I love the beaded artwork and the topiaries are charming.

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  9. It's beautiful Mary. I love the depth of your mantle, which allows for larger items like the cache pot. You really get some great items when you're out thrifting and you have a great eye for what will work.

    - Suzanne, the Farmer's Wife

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  10. Mary- yo have a great eye- we were gaga over the beautiful needlework- we missed the clock!!! Love it!!

    blessings,
    kari & kijsa

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  11. IT has such a warm glow. Congrats on your published picture!

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  12. Your mantel looks great, Mary! Love those topiaries you made.

    Have a great weekend!
    Hugs,
    Donna

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  13. hi,
    i think your mantle looks great! I'm enjoying browsing your blog.

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  14. Terrific bargains there Mary, and the mantel looks wonderful in that beautiful room! Congratulations on your magazine debut too sweetie! Hope you're having a great weekend!
    Amanda (aka Cottage Contessa)

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  15. Mary, I have a knotty pine living room and I have questions about your beadboard ceiling. Would you please email me at
    marygo427@yahoo.com ?

    Thanks, Christy:-)<><

    christyg427 at RMS

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  16. I have always love your mantel and I think the topiers look lovely. They really are the perfect shade.
    Your home is just so beautiful, so warm. I love it so.

    Love,
    Sue

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  17. I love your mantel Mary :) The new additions to it are darling and I can't beleive that you got them for those prices.

    hugs,
    rue

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  18. Could I come when Mental P and Annie come? I think we'd make great pals!

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Thank you so much for taking the time to read and comment. I love to hear what you have to say!