Are decor trends important?

I am interested in following the latest  trends in interior design.   I need to know these things to have relevant discussions with clients and to understand where the industry is headed.  Many  trends come and go without ever hitting the average home.<br /><br /><br /><br />Colour of the year is a good example of a temporary trend.  Depending on which paint company your like, you will have a different colour of the year!   I use Benjamin Moore paint and this year the colour of the year is .... <br /><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_Qo5ZfHvboqKLOI-YfgJv7ef3_rrU29egro_Ytg6KqDzjbeY9vM2-3-iA0PNQPpiIxiSGdle4L0AC__ZsmguP1pNGVrOM3bQpz3IGcXvkdPsKTWuyUUy4bTif3gE0ekQU_RBcfYiicQmA/s1600/lemon-sorbet.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_Qo5ZfHvboqKLOI-YfgJv7ef3_rrU29egro_Ytg6KqDzjbeY9vM2-3-iA0PNQPpiIxiSGdle4L0AC__ZsmguP1pNGVrOM3bQpz3IGcXvkdPsKTWuyUUy4bTif3gE0ekQU_RBcfYiicQmA/s1600/lemon-sorbet.jpg" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><br /><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvOpXEVIfrmsa_5U7uHKm0xV16n1zU6mRSnTAhpcgRvsPoovDBBdtvGqBgtSQ1Xdsh45pA9SC3gWSRKjhISExa7JSROzp015_c2B27XbDAgjCOFOAOL6EfuM2wZjrX9MZd-xyYfigVV4H7/s1600/40110252902409056_aaqo5z1R_c.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="194" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgvOpXEVIfrmsa_5U7uHKm0xV16n1zU6mRSnTAhpcgRvsPoovDBBdtvGqBgtSQ1Xdsh45pA9SC3gWSRKjhISExa7JSROzp015_c2B27XbDAgjCOFOAOL6EfuM2wZjrX9MZd-xyYfigVV4H7/s320/40110252902409056_aaqo5z1R_c.jpg" width="320" /></a><br /><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Lemon Sorbet 2019-60</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>This is an interesting fact to know, but I doubt this time next year it will make much difference  because there will be a new colour of the year.<br /><br /> Then there are broader colour trends that seem to last for much longer, e.g., the change from beige/brown to grays as the predominant neutral in home decor.  This type of information  is  more important to be aware of because it produces whole palette shifts in home accessories including textiles. The  change to grays has moved palettes from warmer and earthy  to cooler and cleaner colours. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1PcvHoWM0y6wgCFiaFNdE7LKbuhLAxHahaAbjLTSVlPit8BWeTnuooDJQYH4qgzmMfQrXwHlbHvp-movRaOvpU4tRkxAMme649qCs2s5CeghypYs1E_F99olZHluRmkqRnmBzrQRMbPQg/s1600/18-x-18-square-scroll-pillow-rust-brown~6763013w.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEh1PcvHoWM0y6wgCFiaFNdE7LKbuhLAxHahaAbjLTSVlPit8BWeTnuooDJQYH4qgzmMfQrXwHlbHvp-movRaOvpU4tRkxAMme649qCs2s5CeghypYs1E_F99olZHluRmkqRnmBzrQRMbPQg/s400/18-x-18-square-scroll-pillow-rust-brown~6763013w.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Rather than the burnt orange/rust  of the brown/beige  era</div><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj25CRtxp7KIZ6U0GxHJGNT2gH5-kYeCsVDqk6uA7Ex_V1UcYq19GU7GktiyKKiNIfNg2MZ9yfCwb3BIf0mzaY2snuNoBcSUKSbKWKYRbwuamuJtiPm6MAjekv8fIhn9BisdLk6qMN6ll_d/s1600/gray-and-orange-see-saw-fabric.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj25CRtxp7KIZ6U0GxHJGNT2gH5-kYeCsVDqk6uA7Ex_V1UcYq19GU7GktiyKKiNIfNg2MZ9yfCwb3BIf0mzaY2snuNoBcSUKSbKWKYRbwuamuJtiPm6MAjekv8fIhn9BisdLk6qMN6ll_d/s320/gray-and-orange-see-saw-fabric.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://www.babybedding.com/gray-and-orange-see-saw-fabric">source </a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> you will now find  a more true orange mixed with grays. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Rather than olive/mossy greens of the brown era...</div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0LtC_DChTH66LNRNuLLwGG8PYPd8L64xsX4Q5EciG75WtJwoCKSwNfWNxAoEW_XPBOxipHGhqdrj-cyB4ynqIBNHr5HWm6MoYzaV52rCiqNlFIo_uOXghdb9Lj_PMcCJaXFo_zUTOhLIn/s1600/il_570xN.305818005.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj0LtC_DChTH66LNRNuLLwGG8PYPd8L64xsX4Q5EciG75WtJwoCKSwNfWNxAoEW_XPBOxipHGhqdrj-cyB4ynqIBNHr5HWm6MoYzaV52rCiqNlFIo_uOXghdb9Lj_PMcCJaXFo_zUTOhLIn/s320/il_570xN.305818005.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmEZ29-64mOpk1McCtBF6RnBRstYfi8-BP0rNrh3lW2e7LaZpjy61ssQwXoQBBgvDIuN3lxsaMqFAPxCMs2PacduC0WwCuKNYrelWBNFFnicAaQc6_8hAbf5iS7rJmCJvKf860g4BlwGB7/s1600/il_fullxfull.320333498.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="311" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhmEZ29-64mOpk1McCtBF6RnBRstYfi8-BP0rNrh3lW2e7LaZpjy61ssQwXoQBBgvDIuN3lxsaMqFAPxCMs2PacduC0WwCuKNYrelWBNFFnicAaQc6_8hAbf5iS7rJmCJvKf860g4BlwGB7/s320/il_fullxfull.320333498.jpg" width="320" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">  you will find fresh apple greens.</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: left;">You can have such wonderful pops of colour with grays and this is reflected in the vibrancy of home accessories available in the market place today.  </div><br /> Several years ago I looked for emerald green accessories for a client.  It was almost impossible to find any!  Pantone's colour of the year for 2013 is...<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilcDDWP4BWfKv-r8TFXECG3PJdyjOfXQalZa3muZa2pZaHnRv9LX7QTdY7ARvg7Aq4Rs-xG5sDBk-wgoECNwaP1IEsPW8DJZ82nze8v5IIhI3W_z0KdRJA4KzCsI5L8K9vtKVKL2E4OTWo/s1600/224828206367228155_DJ4rP9rv_c.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilcDDWP4BWfKv-r8TFXECG3PJdyjOfXQalZa3muZa2pZaHnRv9LX7QTdY7ARvg7Aq4Rs-xG5sDBk-wgoECNwaP1IEsPW8DJZ82nze8v5IIhI3W_z0KdRJA4KzCsI5L8K9vtKVKL2E4OTWo/s320/224828206367228155_DJ4rP9rv_c.jpg" width="250" /></a></div><br />I find Pantone's colour predictions have more impact on fashion and home decor than those of specific  paint companies. This year you will have no difficulty finding emerald green accessories.<br /><br /> It is important to keep up with trends that will  impact big ticket, relatively permanent products like hardwood, tile and cabinets.  You do not want to select something that will be dated  quickly.  Awareness of these trends does not mean you have to buy into them.  Sometimes choosing exactly the opposite is the the best design solution for longevity.   That is why it is wiser to choose  more neutral  long term items for your home.<br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkJGqdDlHShbILV69vFeodLM_4XiCG8hWNrdMbXpuQeXoDmpeY9cPyCs-u5s9sTY6OHcEk5k1leLMB6CnZl6pXW6QKDOSSNNtRpibH7yZrxD0-FLVposqW4kv6jq77t8pNOXrJgDaa3yJ-/s1600/215821007113546552_c5UjAkmQ_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="365" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkJGqdDlHShbILV69vFeodLM_4XiCG8hWNrdMbXpuQeXoDmpeY9cPyCs-u5s9sTY6OHcEk5k1leLMB6CnZl6pXW6QKDOSSNNtRpibH7yZrxD0-FLVposqW4kv6jq77t8pNOXrJgDaa3yJ-/s400/215821007113546552_c5UjAkmQ_c.jpg" width="400" /></a></div>Homeowners  who jumped on the dark wood look  for kitchens will probably end up sorry for their selection sooner rather than later.     Extremes rarely work for long periods of time. I predict the patterned glass mosaic backsplash tile that is all the rage now  will have run its course soon too.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.houzz.com/photos/408357/Private-Winnetka-Residence-eclectic-kitchen-chicago"><img border="0" height="376" src="http://st.houzz.com/simgs/69e1b3b30eebb209_8-9055/eclectic-kitchen.jpg" width="500" /></a></div><div style="color: #444444; text-align: center;"><small> <a href="http://www.houzz.com/pro/mdraia/reynolds-architecture-northfield-illinois" style="color: #444444; text-decoration: none;">Reynolds Architecture- Northfield, Illinois</a></small></div><br />That's why classic soft white kitchen cabinets will always work. There are no extremes in this kitchen.   The style is softly traditional, the tiles are plain and the counters are  lighter granite.   I know it isn't everyone's cup of tea.  I am talking about what stands the test of time. <br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXDoUoILR5-CKThvE6hg7puLicS6E0VvIJJR3CJTqU8anDkaeQAqHYqDlWI0vC-xy-JD3RfeIJell6Kasm_oYDR-hNK1McnecBYiQa8TAcA3UTuIxk22AGfiBgrSI3Pq8xi5UXP_CJN-lF/s1600/466544842617542191_iJeYEtgw_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiXDoUoILR5-CKThvE6hg7puLicS6E0VvIJJR3CJTqU8anDkaeQAqHYqDlWI0vC-xy-JD3RfeIJell6Kasm_oYDR-hNK1McnecBYiQa8TAcA3UTuIxk22AGfiBgrSI3Pq8xi5UXP_CJN-lF/s640/466544842617542191_iJeYEtgw_c.jpg" width="424" /></a> </div><div style="text-align: center;">Staying with a traditional example, if you don't like white, consider a more mid tone neutral  or  ...</div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwLvnabzHkIneH51bmmB3BCJRelYp6Nd_P3P0fL26zz__i5YxWILuPNvEuTVnMj285JkJjdW89PNPfZ3JNaQ-Z8ug6Kjp8jarkONHaobYFb24anF9P9wupFP0fgeRvcHrQWfHdsQq6ir4y/s1600/78320480990415721_LIDwUuQS_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="300" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgwLvnabzHkIneH51bmmB3BCJRelYp6Nd_P3P0fL26zz__i5YxWILuPNvEuTVnMj285JkJjdW89PNPfZ3JNaQ-Z8ug6Kjp8jarkONHaobYFb24anF9P9wupFP0fgeRvcHrQWfHdsQq6ir4y/s400/78320480990415721_LIDwUuQS_c.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">  mid toned stained  wood.  </div><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;">Stay tuned for 2013 decor trends with staying power. </div><br /><br />

Are decor trends important?

I am interested in following the latest  trends in interior design.   I need to know these things to have relevant discussions with clients ...

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A little red year round

Red  is a great accent colour anytime, but it seems to be even more inviting at Christmas.  All it takes is the merest hint to bring a room to life. It can be used in small accessories, window treatments or furniture.  In all can't be ignored. <br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixEjO1ZqYBVhm0-cgWz1A4HbOCTsjCvLIFzbwtWCIilcrlh6XEpmpIHKLl3ogrHrHd3KTM0NbtnlTwsPHfcJieWzxP8ihpkTsAzhQRUCuwE6v-0aPPw4IhYzAqYhL-E-cmw9NGg1vpRb5M/s1600/279856564314353319_IpJyh49P_c.jpg" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="accessories red " border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixEjO1ZqYBVhm0-cgWz1A4HbOCTsjCvLIFzbwtWCIilcrlh6XEpmpIHKLl3ogrHrHd3KTM0NbtnlTwsPHfcJieWzxP8ihpkTsAzhQRUCuwE6v-0aPPw4IhYzAqYhL-E-cmw9NGg1vpRb5M/s400/279856564314353319_IpJyh49P_c.jpg" title="Designing Home: A little red year round" width="318" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A splash of red always works</td></tr></tbody></table></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.designinggal.com/2012/01/how-to-live-large-in-small-spaces.html">source</a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;">What a difference a pillow can make.  Remember to have at least three hits of an accent colour around a room to create movement.   </div><br /><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpaEGnd0vqoAmOb5SS81yo8pcD3QYpQcTdURPDFB-qDGrqyUERu5eqPSWcbCK-S4r4DzJ2U9KxdfwUSvFEeKrhrKiJjQEWCMHAeiPUlo25r51pv-tPTqsP0oYtHlChmGmri7iQvBacB3R_/s1600/80290805826233524_ltMy2rA5_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="red furniture with black " border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpaEGnd0vqoAmOb5SS81yo8pcD3QYpQcTdURPDFB-qDGrqyUERu5eqPSWcbCK-S4r4DzJ2U9KxdfwUSvFEeKrhrKiJjQEWCMHAeiPUlo25r51pv-tPTqsP0oYtHlChmGmri7iQvBacB3R_/s400/80290805826233524_ltMy2rA5_c.jpg" title="Designing Home: A little red year round" width="303" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Black and red are very dramatic</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://www.thelennoxx.com/category/browse-by-color/red/">source</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Red and black is always dramatic, and when your throw a bold pattern into the mix it is even more so.  </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJx_qsQGvLI1jv389CWEApk9ihgrXo787Lbh-panakfEcySr6OmmNN29NF1DRpFqW9urfKXS985jBW1uSK2FwsIorPT611Er8mXZr0-GDhdCM2f0MOrIysRvG_Q_WrN6GBiwDEDYaNli-t/s1600/162481499026041444_QTNegmor_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="red patterned bar stools accessories " border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgJx_qsQGvLI1jv389CWEApk9ihgrXo787Lbh-panakfEcySr6OmmNN29NF1DRpFqW9urfKXS985jBW1uSK2FwsIorPT611Er8mXZr0-GDhdCM2f0MOrIysRvG_Q_WrN6GBiwDEDYaNli-t/s400/162481499026041444_QTNegmor_c.jpg" title="Designing Home: A little red year round" width="298" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Stunning patterned bar stools</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"> <a href="http://www.hgtv.com/kitchens/under-200-kitchen-design-ideas-from-the-pros/pictures/index.html?nl=HGI_020112_featlink3">source </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEixEjO1ZqYBVhm0-cgWz1A4HbOCTsjCvLIFzbwtWCIilcrlh6XEpmpIHKLl3ogrHrHd3KTM0NbtnlTwsPHfcJieWzxP8ihpkTsAzhQRUCuwE6v-0aPPw4IhYzAqYhL-E-cmw9NGg1vpRb5M/s1600/279856564314353319_IpJyh49P_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> Red and gray is refreshing.  I especially like this crisp blue red with a white pattern. Three hits of colour is well displayed in this vignette. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMLUc9KHpNeP5TsnUnC-outlHOXw2_oA3qQXVgsUKRIpMw-dAO0fctfTO4H5TThIemhWTEB4bKwjondRaLrJv2hxc04lQSfaD8xbH5mqXxNYbhbhNxZ-eILpuaBrf_r7V2oVCGvp_p8EwB/s1600/1759287324369766_4OOLOqVU_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhMLUc9KHpNeP5TsnUnC-outlHOXw2_oA3qQXVgsUKRIpMw-dAO0fctfTO4H5TThIemhWTEB4bKwjondRaLrJv2hxc04lQSfaD8xbH5mqXxNYbhbhNxZ-eILpuaBrf_r7V2oVCGvp_p8EwB/s400/1759287324369766_4OOLOqVU_c.jpg" width="298" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A sprinkling of red </td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://www.nehomemag.com/business/s-b-long-interiors-inc">source</a> </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Red paired with black and white patterned area rug is very eye catching.   What an interesting window treatment for more than one window set close together. Vertical stripes are so commanding.  </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjpaEGnd0vqoAmOb5SS81yo8pcD3QYpQcTdURPDFB-qDGrqyUERu5eqPSWcbCK-S4r4DzJ2U9KxdfwUSvFEeKrhrKiJjQEWCMHAeiPUlo25r51pv-tPTqsP0oYtHlChmGmri7iQvBacB3R_/s1600/80290805826233524_ltMy2rA5_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_E58sk3Q4clc02ofbzlP4ghesDsM_QGdK1EnOzQdkMdmovx2NHM5_Dnb2ij6jUm2vXKgpKNMkbC3Hm1QmBffkf_e4BONeKwq6Z6azJn29Xrsw-_qmbOBYwOzVL4o8GcfxcxaghwCDuGfO/s1600/173740498094139789_2Wpt1qMc_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="red sofa black and white pillows" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg_E58sk3Q4clc02ofbzlP4ghesDsM_QGdK1EnOzQdkMdmovx2NHM5_Dnb2ij6jUm2vXKgpKNMkbC3Hm1QmBffkf_e4BONeKwq6Z6azJn29Xrsw-_qmbOBYwOzVL4o8GcfxcxaghwCDuGfO/s400/173740498094139789_2Wpt1qMc_c.jpg" title="Designing Home: A littlte red year round" width="250" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Who could ignore red with black and white?</td></tr></tbody></table><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> <a href="http://greenorang.livejournal.com/86861.html#cutid1">source </a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"> Bold black and white again with a red sofa.  Very commanding.  When you are hanging artwork on a striped wall it is best to keep the mats light and the images simple. </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlpeVSar2GkhyphenhyphenAUxUZH88Zboj6ZVlA08pMZ43FlNLfgmopBD7h5zrxx0aPw-z9JQS3xLSIJhnyNwDkNwQNNPYEjz59aio8J36ZbsuUWTv2Ic_PjZRRE0A-lj9McE6sH5U72r1SWtEHhmh4/s1600/171277592050192213_FKtnBqUR_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="red and white striped headboard" border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhlpeVSar2GkhyphenhyphenAUxUZH88Zboj6ZVlA08pMZ43FlNLfgmopBD7h5zrxx0aPw-z9JQS3xLSIJhnyNwDkNwQNNPYEjz59aio8J36ZbsuUWTv2Ic_PjZRRE0A-lj9McE6sH5U72r1SWtEHhmh4/s400/171277592050192213_FKtnBqUR_c.jpg" title="Designing Home: A little red year round" width="266" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">Red and white striped headboard</td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://greenorang.livejournal.com/86861.html#cutid1">source </a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">A striking red striped headboard with charcoal and white.  </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><table align="center" cellpadding="0" cellspacing="0" class="tr-caption-container" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto; text-align: center;"><tbody><tr><td style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzu2WKyUNkQVjIgHmG7UKS0c_hzNa6RMc2_t8_IPoVfC7p48dbUmu-cxfugcPblUKySPgn5-HzPYkKnEF9SOzCrCOzbpVS6kkCj630GwmdeZFXAbFPm3hhp863QwfLHy-raPdEPgAUnxHW/s1600/168955423491044739_e0WuJgdt_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: auto; margin-right: auto;"><img alt="red console " border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhzu2WKyUNkQVjIgHmG7UKS0c_hzNa6RMc2_t8_IPoVfC7p48dbUmu-cxfugcPblUKySPgn5-HzPYkKnEF9SOzCrCOzbpVS6kkCj630GwmdeZFXAbFPm3hhp863QwfLHy-raPdEPgAUnxHW/s400/168955423491044739_e0WuJgdt_c.jpg" title="Designing Home: A little red year round" width="298" /></a></td></tr><tr><td class="tr-caption" style="text-align: center;">A stunning red console </td></tr></tbody></table><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="http://pinterest.com/pin/250512797992931312/">source</a></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Red with liberal amounts of neutral always works. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div>

A little red year round

Red  is a great accent colour anytime, but it seems to be even more inviting at Christmas.  All it takes is the merest hint to bring a room ...

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Wrap it up

Trying to be earth friendly is an ongoing battle especially at Christmas.   I hate the fact that all the pretty gift wrap ends up in the landfill because  it isn't recyclable.  paper gift  bags work for me and I always reuse  those I receive. I  also purchase fabric bags when I see them and hope the receiver  passes them along to another person. When the last of my gift wrap runs out (probably this year), I plan to use brown paper (Kraft Paper) which you can recycle.  The options for dressing it up are endless. Here's a few nifty ideas to get you thinking about the possibilities:<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOJVZxpHPAnzF8glbuMup2r4EI96qcKytsZ-AdrS-u8CXbeCUnurYC7BxGeQWINJ-Sq0I1aTCQDVW7x5FBvoEFLuVYQnIMmHV8tEcahkxPbsmbZCy_aYBaJqxmhYiTNkpnxIXLP8wy2OIT/s1600/38913984249965447_pP9gm4TY_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="640" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgOJVZxpHPAnzF8glbuMup2r4EI96qcKytsZ-AdrS-u8CXbeCUnurYC7BxGeQWINJ-Sq0I1aTCQDVW7x5FBvoEFLuVYQnIMmHV8tEcahkxPbsmbZCy_aYBaJqxmhYiTNkpnxIXLP8wy2OIT/s640/38913984249965447_pP9gm4TY_c.jpg" width="427" /></a></div>  Braided wine, a bit of greenery  and a pine cone.  What could be simpler than that?  Wrapping the twine around the package off center adds to the design element.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSMXjwwxDBf9PD97fLDvmu11pxT-N9hhgk0jtA2gAZqOHmohp0Ve7MhTDUJjFoU8Xbr9sZjA7HlGIoWohJNhSzTiUGAPIYixqD-NojZ5hTyxYP3pjmGk1l9GssACKx6KW_VJ6FAgXU01xl/s1600/81487074479177424_VNaA2V3s_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhSMXjwwxDBf9PD97fLDvmu11pxT-N9hhgk0jtA2gAZqOHmohp0Ve7MhTDUJjFoU8Xbr9sZjA7HlGIoWohJNhSzTiUGAPIYixqD-NojZ5hTyxYP3pjmGk1l9GssACKx6KW_VJ6FAgXU01xl/s400/81487074479177424_VNaA2V3s_c.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> What a great way to share old photographs.  Copying them is so easy these days.   </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmZYsWu1aEM3jgAsI8pHppIPnisMPXBE9pZSnmQ6OCxp7NTRiZmQDswvszUVGSftbfqiOZ4XF0vIuba_cnsvH3iRm7s5TL-nqznv3c3-86rtEaLQlhxEOkQ6hbuhBVTBmFhu7UDTmadFdH/s1600/103090278939924055_hK0xH24r_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjmZYsWu1aEM3jgAsI8pHppIPnisMPXBE9pZSnmQ6OCxp7NTRiZmQDswvszUVGSftbfqiOZ4XF0vIuba_cnsvH3iRm7s5TL-nqznv3c3-86rtEaLQlhxEOkQ6hbuhBVTBmFhu7UDTmadFdH/s400/103090278939924055_hK0xH24r_c.jpg" width="297" /></a></div><br />Love how the black satin ribbon looks with the green and the stamped gift tag.  The splash of cedar finishes the job.  <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1yibXyAfzs1jLYVb1YO1OQswVk_XgMUDttdc-HkFWtmJGlgf1-evSK1lQtAbUnMWq8saB2VLtkQXL7QuplgArdlkabTzS4YDu2suxclt8yrQmV-zBNOwhaOah9adFGPpJWqdGFnSqW94D/s1600/193091902743148482_tGn6JbRJ_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg1yibXyAfzs1jLYVb1YO1OQswVk_XgMUDttdc-HkFWtmJGlgf1-evSK1lQtAbUnMWq8saB2VLtkQXL7QuplgArdlkabTzS4YDu2suxclt8yrQmV-zBNOwhaOah9adFGPpJWqdGFnSqW94D/s400/193091902743148482_tGn6JbRJ_c.jpg" width="376" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> The name of the recipient becomes the major design element in this wrapping idea.  </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiqsrSMQeSHeRXmp4el-Bi5NbRPEYeU18VTYvG-o4tLMvOikEfw9lSYZMN4z5HN7sgjVettPCRXtSiWA9ABfMDE51-n9Zkrx5JIF_Sh3qAAdk1dkxZa7G1a0zNts4OZr88w8eJdMjq6N68/s1600/5559199509513464_kcswB5wI_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="320" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjiqsrSMQeSHeRXmp4el-Bi5NbRPEYeU18VTYvG-o4tLMvOikEfw9lSYZMN4z5HN7sgjVettPCRXtSiWA9ABfMDE51-n9Zkrx5JIF_Sh3qAAdk1dkxZa7G1a0zNts4OZr88w8eJdMjq6N68/s320/5559199509513464_kcswB5wI_c.jpg" width="320" /></a></div>  Have you seen the lace tape that is so popular now ? I've been on the look out but haven't found it yet.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieQDkZ8RiOsNYOxrHTIiYdggtIz4TH2-ItvD2IHTH1HNJfH83i9BEcpeMhW8Uxs9Bg1rz2VBZY2A1ARzw_Qd2Q-5ffX4CMRBKZcil-LKIZUVCLNWZIpxyx5Npn2JNceyUxYxCx-Skf-Zw0/s1600/188095721906585463_dg5Xm1sI_c.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="280" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieQDkZ8RiOsNYOxrHTIiYdggtIz4TH2-ItvD2IHTH1HNJfH83i9BEcpeMhW8Uxs9Bg1rz2VBZY2A1ARzw_Qd2Q-5ffX4CMRBKZcil-LKIZUVCLNWZIpxyx5Npn2JNceyUxYxCx-Skf-Zw0/s400/188095721906585463_dg5Xm1sI_c.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieQDkZ8RiOsNYOxrHTIiYdggtIz4TH2-ItvD2IHTH1HNJfH83i9BEcpeMhW8Uxs9Bg1rz2VBZY2A1ARzw_Qd2Q-5ffX4CMRBKZcil-LKIZUVCLNWZIpxyx5Npn2JNceyUxYxCx-Skf-Zw0/s1600/188095721906585463_dg5Xm1sI_c.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><div style="text-align: left;">Cutting snowflakes from different coloured paper and adding them to the plain paper works to add a spalsh of colour.  Simple butcher twine manages to look elegant with this pairing. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEieQDkZ8RiOsNYOxrHTIiYdggtIz4TH2-ItvD2IHTH1HNJfH83i9BEcpeMhW8Uxs9Bg1rz2VBZY2A1ARzw_Qd2Q-5ffX4CMRBKZcil-LKIZUVCLNWZIpxyx5Npn2JNceyUxYxCx-Skf-Zw0/s1600/188095721906585463_dg5Xm1sI_c.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkREC6vq32r-_Pw3UvT9AOlNd6jKsN2-cQb7EehNMovanbDXHr9qn5R19oCeACBf9oJ5kNszS1qA3UsRYXe99KV5IoZCCErBf8KIX3Yx0fvL7eFviU2MfVPEEp6Gh9IiLp06GtEOFOkPbv/s1600/112871534380616032_kZNh7f2L_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhkREC6vq32r-_Pw3UvT9AOlNd6jKsN2-cQb7EehNMovanbDXHr9qn5R19oCeACBf9oJ5kNszS1qA3UsRYXe99KV5IoZCCErBf8KIX3Yx0fvL7eFviU2MfVPEEp6Gh9IiLp06GtEOFOkPbv/s400/112871534380616032_kZNh7f2L_c.jpg" width="266" /></a></div> Who know the pages from old books could make such pretty wrapping material.  You can sew paper to make bags or else glue the edges together.  Adding red string makes it all so festive. You can do so much with so little!<br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcJaNJjecVwoYdLr_DGLmSUs16BUVUvMOAIBhY86f0pkoE6UTBgtWIZf_WWDewIlwSyei_xnkLKCubORkmQ_dg6809PzHM3zRJjklkWBN2tZzA9PmjZkkDXicogChxYpBbbp0yenz1-m7y/s1600/95560823312791833_dtCHt0F8_c.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="282" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjcJaNJjecVwoYdLr_DGLmSUs16BUVUvMOAIBhY86f0pkoE6UTBgtWIZf_WWDewIlwSyei_xnkLKCubORkmQ_dg6809PzHM3zRJjklkWBN2tZzA9PmjZkkDXicogChxYpBbbp0yenz1-m7y/s400/95560823312791833_dtCHt0F8_c.jpg" width="400" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: left;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilYD21_55M0nJ0c_HD4avLzL2G2EHdenH7CHZOz038sPQoobvHRJJ5dfFHwWPktbwgyTDZoynUpPeHCT_I4V9XDafP_QGybn0RocnOMawA5rB_eWr8GNeAT0gwXn4Jj7q9x4_xWkw2oNlN/s1600/226165212506502192_f7oQfZA0_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"></a> I love this one with red yarn and kraft sticks with holes drilled in them. Of course it is the repetition that makes the design. </div><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilYD21_55M0nJ0c_HD4avLzL2G2EHdenH7CHZOz038sPQoobvHRJJ5dfFHwWPktbwgyTDZoynUpPeHCT_I4V9XDafP_QGybn0RocnOMawA5rB_eWr8GNeAT0gwXn4Jj7q9x4_xWkw2oNlN/s1600/226165212506502192_f7oQfZA0_c.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEilYD21_55M0nJ0c_HD4avLzL2G2EHdenH7CHZOz038sPQoobvHRJJ5dfFHwWPktbwgyTDZoynUpPeHCT_I4V9XDafP_QGybn0RocnOMawA5rB_eWr8GNeAT0gwXn4Jj7q9x4_xWkw2oNlN/s400/226165212506502192_f7oQfZA0_c.jpg" width="266" /></a> </div><div style="text-align: left;"> Love this look with red raffia ribbon and strips of black and white printed paper.  What you add between the raffia is up to one's imagination. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoo4MwXDN02Wja4pBDwmyJduDZrmsZNwYlhLuCqF2fKNlZGAQ221SauuE_tKoCSXPq2vC1ISuxDFiOSG_iXeXxNoIt_h_HLHim7McDbyKxqnV9KWHXOXEeZLi5hOOUpA97mNlldQCiSVxf/s1600/214765475950755020_jSPRTG8i_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="361" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgoo4MwXDN02Wja4pBDwmyJduDZrmsZNwYlhLuCqF2fKNlZGAQ221SauuE_tKoCSXPq2vC1ISuxDFiOSG_iXeXxNoIt_h_HLHim7McDbyKxqnV9KWHXOXEeZLi5hOOUpA97mNlldQCiSVxf/s400/214765475950755020_jSPRTG8i_c.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> Coloured tape and a button on a string.  How colourful and simple? </div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD9rjLpRXLW5PnLk7OE5G6NcB2c8D5D12as3Ly5pOlApveEQ1hUfcpaIUIYqm1XZVeE1C-RxUJIDBL4iFWlx728yKQZjLbUyXFWR11kK5pqdCLpNq41sLmFMAAT6kLFXUBQRn89tiMNOFA/s1600/221802350367479370_OL2t3APF_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiD9rjLpRXLW5PnLk7OE5G6NcB2c8D5D12as3Ly5pOlApveEQ1hUfcpaIUIYqm1XZVeE1C-RxUJIDBL4iFWlx728yKQZjLbUyXFWR11kK5pqdCLpNq41sLmFMAAT6kLFXUBQRn89tiMNOFA/s400/221802350367479370_OL2t3APF_c.jpg" width="301" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;"> To get this effect I would use scraps of tulle or netting  and then over tie it with twine. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">Wondering what to do with that left over burlap?  Wonder no more.  I made burlap bags years ago to package driftwood Santa's I hand painted.   When you ravel out the tops and include a colourful yarn for tying , it looks very festive.  Burlap will also take a simple stencil using  paint. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;"></div><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR3FD9CyuFJfr8-0kp7v13rGhkI5fpI5HxEmjuxnqHvGgR6iul1q-h-wB4RNqf77WlRbtubhjs_vRYW_mDq8xW8NNaSblZOQpSaS6QxTgpOzx2xYokI_7mAaVz03nL7vwL14XmRRO7A7KK/s1600/101119954105132567_xnnsaaw1_c.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhR3FD9CyuFJfr8-0kp7v13rGhkI5fpI5HxEmjuxnqHvGgR6iul1q-h-wB4RNqf77WlRbtubhjs_vRYW_mDq8xW8NNaSblZOQpSaS6QxTgpOzx2xYokI_7mAaVz03nL7vwL14XmRRO7A7KK/s400/101119954105132567_xnnsaaw1_c.jpg" width="265" /></a> </div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Ls6AP_MtnoXwi2m6bbWxzfJI7p00WQVbI7DsWc1IuXSEIwuKj8qIz9r9OILt4BFiWlWgEVQsOXEGTR9VmtLMknYl1YDmhW-MDqF3RJpRQVGdu3xRgaTi16RSyRbJ0m9miUYmIzhU3C3c/s1600/272467846177136631_nHgcisFF_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><br /></a></div><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Ls6AP_MtnoXwi2m6bbWxzfJI7p00WQVbI7DsWc1IuXSEIwuKj8qIz9r9OILt4BFiWlWgEVQsOXEGTR9VmtLMknYl1YDmhW-MDqF3RJpRQVGdu3xRgaTi16RSyRbJ0m9miUYmIzhU3C3c/s1600/272467846177136631_nHgcisFF_c.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj5Ls6AP_MtnoXwi2m6bbWxzfJI7p00WQVbI7DsWc1IuXSEIwuKj8qIz9r9OILt4BFiWlWgEVQsOXEGTR9VmtLMknYl1YDmhW-MDqF3RJpRQVGdu3xRgaTi16RSyRbJ0m9miUYmIzhU3C3c/s400/272467846177136631_nHgcisFF_c.jpg" width="280" /></a></div><br /> Over wrapping newsprint with burlap and adding a lovely gift tag and pine cones looks very finished and inviting. <br /><br /><b> Find the links to these and lots of other gift wrapping ideas on my Pinterest  <a href="http://pinterest.com/mryall/gift-giving/">gift giving page</a>. </b><br /><br />

Wrap it up

Trying to be earth friendly is an ongoing battle especially at Christmas.   I hate the fact that all the pretty gift wrap ends up in the lan...

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Christmas, Christmas, Christmas

I love repetition as a statement and it is a powerful vehicle for impact  in art and design.  As you get ready for the coming season perhaps  you would like some inspiration. These images illustrate simple, doable Christmas decor with an emphasis on repetition. Of course Pinterest is the go to site now for ideas of any kind.  These and more ideas  can be found on my  <a href="http://pinterest.com/mryall/tis-the-season/">Tis the Season</a> folder.<br /><br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuFx-tqGoy3I9fALstlBhsnnXAE8feO43n9JQTk8XgQpwJsnp0mOmiAvvcVQDoemIKy7TNByT2Czp8xnzy81ULR0fao7gxHxNziuqCNI2icbaEleqJA1dFY-cWPLZqgdOE69hNHZ-Nf3Df/s1600/171277592049697719_L5OXenoc_c.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhuFx-tqGoy3I9fALstlBhsnnXAE8feO43n9JQTk8XgQpwJsnp0mOmiAvvcVQDoemIKy7TNByT2Czp8xnzy81ULR0fao7gxHxNziuqCNI2icbaEleqJA1dFY-cWPLZqgdOE69hNHZ-Nf3Df/s400/171277592049697719_L5OXenoc_c.jpg" width="312" /></a> </div>So simple and effective.  I think this works because of its lack of colour and sparkle against the metal tray.<br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwlhLxlh9zqjafSr6_QoAMX1rPRBGuh3sOVL2vupYrTzi95YUHqSG7Dnfust5qhozN7Rudx5k2bxjF_f6L2OEgZPZXy_EjkaginOexMVMRX8UtOeJfFiZiSD02F7swwvVhTcAxIN3hAuwQ/s1600/75927943687341501_Cnqu5FGl_c.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiwlhLxlh9zqjafSr6_QoAMX1rPRBGuh3sOVL2vupYrTzi95YUHqSG7Dnfust5qhozN7Rudx5k2bxjF_f6L2OEgZPZXy_EjkaginOexMVMRX8UtOeJfFiZiSD02F7swwvVhTcAxIN3hAuwQ/s400/75927943687341501_Cnqu5FGl_c.jpg" width="400" /></a> </div>  How simple is this?  Jingle bells, and white candles on a rectangular white tray.  The variations are endless. <br /><br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaIPC5qUsOF5NDzUHPT5lK2JcFbV7pF4hoROZYqnzvew1el5UwxDHVSiyzaF4pcLKDMJAcTTCFsVW-Hf-wq1-Y1_tF6BFgywKRr-kS1CcS_Vr63127wpAVqLJAP0Y0JZjUV48_O-gRajz2/s1600/18295942205832444_utRuSmnq_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhaIPC5qUsOF5NDzUHPT5lK2JcFbV7pF4hoROZYqnzvew1el5UwxDHVSiyzaF4pcLKDMJAcTTCFsVW-Hf-wq1-Y1_tF6BFgywKRr-kS1CcS_Vr63127wpAVqLJAP0Y0JZjUV48_O-gRajz2/s400/18295942205832444_utRuSmnq_c.jpg" width="300" /></a></div>  Pick your choice with this one. Greenery with candles or bulbs in sets of three or four.  I think I would stick to one or the other so it would get noticed more. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj54Vm2zeWtXZRSLO1zbX8qX4in2GCIDUdIq5qSqfJgOU1CwndEUzNj1kStn2z0UtU_P1CUZXrSSUobBflFcJ6_oe0JXtkTe0XThjNJr6QAQUsCFhd4wYFz8riVYNHvewNpu2GnxbXv4-h_/s1600/77335318572530880_HHo0HnLX_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEj54Vm2zeWtXZRSLO1zbX8qX4in2GCIDUdIq5qSqfJgOU1CwndEUzNj1kStn2z0UtU_P1CUZXrSSUobBflFcJ6_oe0JXtkTe0XThjNJr6QAQUsCFhd4wYFz8riVYNHvewNpu2GnxbXv4-h_/s400/77335318572530880_HHo0HnLX_c.jpg" width="300" /></a></div> Boxwood wreath with slim tapers massed in the middle.  These little candles and holders usually in clear glass are often found at dollar stores. You could also drill holes of appropriate size in a piece of wood and cover it with aluminum foil for safety. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJtXozcDsVrOkpT0-NrCA3LQMVv8J4mIFb-GUWf4HSQaUpXvWQNB-T0OTjkG2MRSL43Whi4cugCPVoDtfnPyLy5q0y7tDEOke7kEfimJtgapesEdXf604g8QRPxxCxs98skaM4SMYtjFi4/s1600/175921929165824896_uq1XqodM_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEhJtXozcDsVrOkpT0-NrCA3LQMVv8J4mIFb-GUWf4HSQaUpXvWQNB-T0OTjkG2MRSL43Whi4cugCPVoDtfnPyLy5q0y7tDEOke7kEfimJtgapesEdXf604g8QRPxxCxs98skaM4SMYtjFi4/s400/175921929165824896_uq1XqodM_b.jpg" width="252" /></a></div>  While this isn't specifically  Christmas decor it offers all kinds of ideas about a similar shelf and a repetition of objects for different seasons. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBqSpkaE9nT5-QVHeuROxEaRLSWje5hSu4MJuvobEhMh5AG0IwRvABvOWKAE67qxzGBks5uNcspPbosW-KmogE9s9WkPa-0kroJkkHM2q9F8OEKbEyNpTJSC70dWcnTpxEVe86xoKC7_DS/s1600/194288171396079426_GkIe0ZVI_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiBqSpkaE9nT5-QVHeuROxEaRLSWje5hSu4MJuvobEhMh5AG0IwRvABvOWKAE67qxzGBks5uNcspPbosW-KmogE9s9WkPa-0kroJkkHM2q9F8OEKbEyNpTJSC70dWcnTpxEVe86xoKC7_DS/s400/194288171396079426_GkIe0ZVI_c.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> Love this idea for over a sofa.  Using those plastic snowflakes you can pick up cheaply and gluing them in a circle with  hot glue.  Velvet ribbon  is a must for the look.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg07vkskK9wt4vkvL4mkTvB5i1W8hcPthxZBMoZkSPZqWsPKre_Opz72sC1Vz6Q4eTLHCZMWZPVn7pau07VHLmPofesQONubRYHLBEnx8zlcU4kLtbUjytDdRyGxZbhqs9TWP2T_edzSrDf/s1600/211458144973423878_OMpRjiR8_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEg07vkskK9wt4vkvL4mkTvB5i1W8hcPthxZBMoZkSPZqWsPKre_Opz72sC1Vz6Q4eTLHCZMWZPVn7pau07VHLmPofesQONubRYHLBEnx8zlcU4kLtbUjytDdRyGxZbhqs9TWP2T_edzSrDf/s400/211458144973423878_OMpRjiR8_c.jpg" width="400" /></a></div> And don't you just love the repetition of gold vases and two shapes of trees?  Gold is so coming back in vogue.  <br /><br /><div style="text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS90YIoUxfVPYzehxnpWkYXKDSbQJ1h0dBSA42tk7La02dXYA31L9n6AY2Wbb_qFiv_oiRAn3v9uRU3oO0OCdO8MwIHatrrMjo-vm4nYdaZ4CUjoBEYfoITnPfNHRqSTxY7wuMidOs4JJz/s1600/207165651580764062_HofDhlp0_c.jpg" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiS90YIoUxfVPYzehxnpWkYXKDSbQJ1h0dBSA42tk7La02dXYA31L9n6AY2Wbb_qFiv_oiRAn3v9uRU3oO0OCdO8MwIHatrrMjo-vm4nYdaZ4CUjoBEYfoITnPfNHRqSTxY7wuMidOs4JJz/s400/207165651580764062_HofDhlp0_c.jpg" width="266" /></a></div> Another set of four but this time using very rustic pots with moss, greenery and candles.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiPpIin0jhFJaxdUHj8BICk_P9eFAjILU7IKRKTew6sjZBuE5PMPsWwG2fBR_uZCbnlHAoh0YzPFG-hVSj7RKDkipG_zrp7uGxZor-xdFBIELXYwEnzyA-miyma5jN1oAeS-G-Z0lLbJ2v/s1600/280067670546657673_mqswLk1O_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEiiPpIin0jhFJaxdUHj8BICk_P9eFAjILU7IKRKTew6sjZBuE5PMPsWwG2fBR_uZCbnlHAoh0YzPFG-hVSj7RKDkipG_zrp7uGxZor-xdFBIELXYwEnzyA-miyma5jN1oAeS-G-Z0lLbJ2v/s400/280067670546657673_mqswLk1O_c.jpg" width="300" /></a></div><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLdXx7asX_uALZbUY2C8YurRbFs5Lz1wZsmHw5dU2B5Tj1vpT80pdGqwDzjiMkTud3nGmhXoT9hPw1xHFreFNEYYC-dIJT7Fv_lz84IqrBVMmAoN221hRlAdgIlTgy6oJaXjB9RPV1hamL/s1600/65443000806301157_QKNwh71L_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEgLdXx7asX_uALZbUY2C8YurRbFs5Lz1wZsmHw5dU2B5Tj1vpT80pdGqwDzjiMkTud3nGmhXoT9hPw1xHFreFNEYYC-dIJT7Fv_lz84IqrBVMmAoN221hRlAdgIlTgy6oJaXjB9RPV1hamL/s400/65443000806301157_QKNwh71L_c.jpg" width="298" /></a></div> Lanterns of different shapes and heights can be used with all sorts of seasonal decor.  I think they are handy to have around for  year around use.<br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOwJmVu_GGt_eHUe7vrmNrUcWY7A9YMhtYx28IPDzTVwR0ZWR1XDijNFmAG1wImFp9TQGKOHiSHWStr4XUrxESnxOko9UDTElzno2WH33tjey47iUDsMXJZNpRK7MxUM7wPIEsneMBHDbF/s1600/171277592050124140_XU15fOPU_c.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="400" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEjOwJmVu_GGt_eHUe7vrmNrUcWY7A9YMhtYx28IPDzTVwR0ZWR1XDijNFmAG1wImFp9TQGKOHiSHWStr4XUrxESnxOko9UDTElzno2WH33tjey47iUDsMXJZNpRK7MxUM7wPIEsneMBHDbF/s400/171277592050124140_XU15fOPU_c.jpg" width="300" /></a></div> Love white and blue at Christmas.  Add in the sparkle of silver ornaments and the scene is set. <br /><br /><div class="separator" style="clear: both; text-align: center;"><a href="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi60BC-4Fs-vdx7Ze6f_BVbodE4yZyLILwNXrIHqBGOooeNINPlLPpQBwDwxMW8rEox-GpnZWUcAtISSI8kGzKXhOat0GIj5BlvtSxQshj2KKo2KiCvjQH4leo-LFS9-nak2169JdhcTruN/s1600/243827767295248143_O1CYyo8f_b.jpg" imageanchor="1" style="margin-left: 1em; margin-right: 1em;"><img border="0" height="266" src="https://blogger.googleusercontent.com/img/b/R29vZ2xl/AVvXsEi60BC-4Fs-vdx7Ze6f_BVbodE4yZyLILwNXrIHqBGOooeNINPlLPpQBwDwxMW8rEox-GpnZWUcAtISSI8kGzKXhOat0GIj5BlvtSxQshj2KKo2KiCvjQH4leo-LFS9-nak2169JdhcTruN/s400/243827767295248143_O1CYyo8f_b.jpg" width="400" /></a></div><div style="text-align: center;">Remember that you can hang wreaths almost anywhere. </div><div style="text-align: center;"><br /></div><div style="text-align: center;">If you missed last year's posts about Christmas decorations check them out <a href="http://designinghome.blogspot.ca/2011/12/making-christmas-sparkle.html">here</a> for my house,  <a href="http://designinghome.blogspot.ca/2011/12/christmas-decorating-for-your-table.html">for your table</a>,   <a href="http://designinghome.blogspot.ca/2011/12/christmas-decorating-12-unique-wreaths.html">wreaths</a>,and  <a href="http://designinghome.blogspot.ca/2011/12/christmas-decorating-mini-trees.html">mini trees .  </a></div>

Christmas, Christmas, Christmas

I love repetition as a statement and it is a powerful vehicle for impact  in art and design.  As you get ready for the coming season perhaps...

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