A White Christmas Mantel

I wanted to design a different type of wreath this year and and when I came across a square wreath on Pinterest I knew I wanted one!

Willow for the frame was an obvious choice for me - I have a mega abundance of it growing in my back yard and I really love working with it. In the past I've made baskets, planters, and even a bench using willow. I love the way the branches seem to roll into place and fit together snugly - no matter how crooked they are.

To make the frame I cut four pieces of willow into 20" pieces, put two on top of the other two (top and bottom) and secured them together with nails. Then I added two small pieces to create the panes. As I mentioned, willow falls together seamlessly and it's rustic so perfectionism is not allowed here.

I also absolutely love the wild look of birch branches so out I went again to gather some up. I feel very fortunate that I live in the country and have all this natural material around me.

I simply wove the birch around the frame and the panes. No glue, nails, string or wires were used. As I added branches they all kind of held each other together - it's really quite sturdy.

Then I added a few birch branches along the the mantel and put a couple of strings of teeny tiny white lights throughout. I already had the big white wooden frame, the bird picture, the tall white wooden bird and the "Let It Snow" sign. The only thing I spent money on was the paint for the wooden frame.

This was my starting off point.

I wanted my wreath to contrast with the frame and the grey was just not cutting it. So I covered it using this paint I found in my favourite antique/collectible/junk store. First time I've come across chalk paint. I was inspired to say the least. It took no time at all to get it done - it dries extremely fast so 2 coats took about 1 hour - perfect for someone so impatient as me. I decided not to use the antiquing wax since I wanted an overall white and dreamy effect on my mantel.

Here I am - in my element...

I'm really loving the simple, rustic and clean look to my mantel this year. Hope you do too!

Sunday Showcase Party at Under The Table and Dreaming, A Homespun Christmas at Savvy Southern Style, Christmas Mantel Decorating Ideas at The Lettered Cottage, Wow us Wednesdays at Savvy Southern Style, Saturday Night Special at Funky Junk Interiors, 'Tis The Season Holiday Linky Party at  Embracing Change, 12 Days of Christmas at Inspired by Charm, 2012 Christmas Tour of Homes at the Nesting Place