Decorating a Mantel with a Non-traditional Frame

Unconventional framing for mantel art

This post is short, ya’ll, because I’m still catching up from my Haven trip. Three hundred crazy, talented, creative DIY bloggers and the vendors who love them is an amazing place. More on that later, but today I’ve got a quickie for you.

What is the second quickest decor pick-me-up besides a fresh coat of paint? An accessory update, preferably with large-scale accessories. The fireplace mantel, though, with limited real estate, is sometimes a little tricky. And sometimes it requires more than the average amount of patience. I bought this art piece over six years ago. It cost over $300, which is enough to make me think twice, but I loved it enough to return to the store three times for it. It’s not a masterpiece or a one of a kind, but I love it. Framing it would easily be another $300, so I didn’t mind that it sat atop my mantel, unframed. For six years. I may have minded a little.

 

decorating mantel with art

I know, I know.The decorator’s place sometimes takes a back seat!

Then, a few weeks ago, I walked by a black iron screen. Whoa. Even though it took several years to come into my life, it was custom made for me. Oh, and it was only about $40, so it was practically singing to me from the shelves.

mantel art fromed in iron screen

The art is simply wired onto the screen with some eyehooks and bread ties. Shhh, don’t tell.

The French flower bucket and the two blue sea glass bottles are from my trip to the West Elm grand opening. The hydrangeas are poached from my neighbor’s garden, with permission.

 What do you think? Don’t this non-traditional frame and large-scale accessories complete this space?

This Post Has 4 Comments

  1. lisa trevelino

    Hi, it looks great, but I would put a black border around the print to give it some definition, just a thought.

    1. Darla

      Lisa, you can’t see it in these photos, but the edge of the art has a nice burlap and nailhead detail. I hate to cover that up. Thanks for reading!

  2. Megan @ Rappsody in Rooms

    Hi Darla! I love the unconventional! I also love that print! I have similar ones in my home that I love. Actually, one that I have above my mantle is very similar. Good spot for it! 😉 I think unconventional framing is such a good idea. It saves money and makes the picture stand out more. I like to use mirrors as frames. It gives it a nice glimmery affect!

    1. Darla

      Megan, do you ever look at your print, squint just a bit, and pretend you are there on the Champs Elysee?

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