Shall We “Throw” in some Fall!?

In my last post on mantel techniques I mentioned how important it is to vary the textures in your composition to keep it interesting.

I think the Fall/Winter months are the perfect time of year to use lots of textures in your home to make it feel warm and cozy.

After all we add texture in our Fall/Winter wardrobes with cable knit sweaters, wool coats, and sometimes fur, hopefully faux fur.

Rough textures will really add a wonderful warm, and cozy layer to any room.

Think of all the different ways you can add texture to your rooms for the cooler months that are about to arrive.

 

I know we all immediately think of a cozy throw to snuggle up with while sitting by the fire…..

Source: strictlysimplestyle.blogspot.com via Kathy Sue on Pinterest

I have used this image in another post, but it is just too perfect to not use it again. This room is so cozy,but can you imagine it without the throw?

Source: verdigrisvie.blogspot.com via Kathy Sue on Pinterest

This is just luscious!!

Source: None via Kathy Sue on Pinterest

Source: cottagestyledecoratingguide.com via Kathy Sue on Pinterest

 I love this room and yet without the throw I am not sure it would look as cozy and inviting.

Source: google.com via Kathy Sue on Pinterest

 

Source: prettystuff.tumblr.com via Kathy Sue on Pinterest

 This is an interesting way to display your throws or maybe it is to hide a stain?!!

Source: None via Kathy Sue on Pinterest

Fur throws are the ultimate for snuggling in for a nice nap.

Source: goodlifeofdesign.blogspot.com via Kathy Sue on Pinterest

Throws come in all kinds of styles, colors and patterns………

Source: coyuchi.com via Kathy Sue on Pinterest

 

Source: potterybarn.com via Kathy Sue on Pinterest

I love the cable knit throws from Pottery Barn! They come in such pretty Fall colors. There is nothing prettier than a cream cable knit sweater,or in this case a throw!

Source: gorsuch.com via Kathy Sue on Pinterest

How about a cashmere cable knit throw?

Source: tinywhitedaisies.tumblr.com via Kathy Sue on Pinterest

Source: goodlifeofdesign.blogspot.com via Kathy Sue on Pinterest

This is one of my all time favorite ways to display a throw on a chair!

 No matter what type of throw you love, or how you toss it they will always add an extra layer of coziness to any room.

I wrote a post last year on  how I like to display my throws if you are interested you can read about it HERE! 
So tell me do you like to gently toss your throws or do you neatly fold them and put them in place?

How do you like to toss your throws?

“Enjoy the Process!” Of:

Snuggling up with a warm and cozy throw!

Kathysue

Sunday with succulents

The weather has been amazing lately so this weekend I did a little planting in my yard. One of the things I really enjoyed was planting a centerpiece for my glass top patio table.

I knew I needed something I could put a candle in, and the candle would have to be protected from the wind. I went shopping in my display closet and I think I found the perfect remedy…….

I  only have one planter of succulents so I thought I would give them a try again. I first thought of using a rustic planter since I usually think of succulents with a rustic look. I personally like a bit more of an elegant look. The table needed a pop of white to bring out the trim in my cushions so this planter fit the bill perfectly.

 Here is a close-up of the arrangement. I can hardly wait to sit outside this evening and light the candle!!

This was a pretty fun way to spend my Sunday morning!!!

“Enjoy the Process!” Of:

Doing whatever you like on a Sunday afternoon!! May I suggest a nap?

Kathysue

Techniques for creating a Fall mantel

With the crisp Fall weather upon us we all like to cozy up to a  fire in the fireplace.

Source: homefurnishings.com via Kathy Sue on Pinterest

With our fireplaces comes our mantels! The perfect place to change things out, and do something that is more appropriate for the season.

Source: marthastewart.com via Kathy Sue on Pinterest

One of the first things I start doing  when it gets a bit more chilly outside is I start lighting candles. Each night it becomes almost like a ceremony. I find myself humming happily as I light all my little votives. The glow of candlelight is so appealing.

Source: potterybarn.com via Kathy Sue on Pinterest

I have a mega-mantel!! (17ft. long) Because of its size and the fact that I like a well edited look it can be a bit difficult at times. 

I know I am not alone in this difficult situation because my clients use to have me do vignettes on their mantels and bookcases all the time.  They would have no idea on how to start the process.

Source: bhg.com via Kathy Sue on Pinterest

Today I thought I would go through the process with you all in hopes of giving you some of the tools that will hopefully be  helpful to you when doing your own, “Fall Mantel!”

Source: nellhillsblog.com via Kathy Sue on Pinterest

The very first thing I would have my clients do is to group their accessories by textures. By having elements in groups it makes it much easier to shop for just the right piece to add to your shelf or mantel.

• Wood, baskets,books for a rough texture.

• Porcelain pieces for shine.

• Mirrors for reflection.

• Pictures or paintings for interest.

• Metal pieces for patina and shine.

•  
•  Plants for a touch of life.

Source: google.com via Kathy Sue on Pinterest

The next step is too decide which pieces you would like to  use. I always start with my largest pieces that will ground the composition. I figure out what I want in the middle of my mantel and I work from that point. Such as a mirror, clock, painting etc.

Source: dearlillieblog.blogspot.com via Kathy Sue on Pinterest

If I am doing a book case I usually start from left to right, top to bottom. I will place the books first since they are usually the focal point in a book case. I will have some in the middle and some on the left and right side of the bookcase. 

Source: habituallychic.blogspot.com via Kathy Sue on Pinterest

You want to keep your eye flowing from side to side. I will also have books laying on their sides as lifts for items.  Once I have the books placed then I will fill in with the other elements varying my textures.

Source: goodhousekeeping.com via Kathy Sue on Pinterest

It is important to have your elements create an up and down wave, going from high to low to high.~~~

Source: tracys-trinkets-treasures.blogspot.com via Kathy Sue on Pinterest

When doing the mantel once the center piece is placed then I add the other larger pieces to the left and right. I tend to like symmetry so my compositions on a mantel will feel more balanced. 

Source: bhg.com via Kathy Sue on Pinterest

When adding the other elements remember to vary your textures. You want a good variety of rough, shine and living plants to make it interesting.  Not having variation in texture is usually what makes your composition feel off to your eye.

Source: athoughtfulplaceblog.com via Kathy Sue on Pinterest

I hope this post has given you some techniques and ideas so you can create your own special fall mantel!!

“Enjoy the Process!” Of:

Creating a stunning Fall mantel!

Kathysue