Adding Neutrals to Holiday Decorations

This time of year, the aisles of home decorating store are just lined with festive table cloths, table runners, place mats, and tree skirts. Unfortunately, getting specific Christmas linens can be pricey, especially when you consider that you are only using them for three or four weeks a year. Instead of going with the obvious red, white, and green decor, try using a neutral linen and layering holiday decorations on top of it.

Black and White Table Runner

The white and black patchwork table runner in this picture was handmade from discontinued home decor fabric samples. If you want to make one like it yourself, purchase a variety of fabrics in a similar color scheme, cut them into uniform squares, and stitch them together one row at a time. Once you have constructed as many rows as you need, go ahead and stitch each of your rows together. Add a plain backing fabric, such as a solid cotton and you are ready to enjoy your custom table runner.

Once my table runner was completed, I placed it on the top of a long bookshelf and added a “joy” sign and a floral arrangement that is in keeping with that bright red, white, and green color scheme. The red and white vase was also a custom piece, made at one of the pottery painting studios that is a favorite for Mommy/Daughter nights with my girls.

If you do not happen to be a sewer, check out your local home decorating store for linens that are in a neutral color palette, such as black, white, ivory, gold, or tan.