It’s that time of year once again! Show everyone you’re getting into the festive spirit with some tasteful seasonal decorations. Everyone knows the mantelpiece is that special place where photographs and figurines are kept, and in December there’s no better place in the house to prove you’re ready for Christmas. Remember though that an out-of-control fire is probably not something you’ve got on your Christmas list, so bear that in mind if you’ve got something draped over an active fireplace.

Stockings

They’re a classic decoration seen on Christmas cards every single year, an element of the season that you simply can’t be without, whatever their colour, size or style. Make sure to fill them with little gifts or goodies for the kids (or the adults!) and be sure they’re empty for when the big guy comes down the chimney later. Keep an eye on their length if you have a fire going though, or if you have a shallow inset for your fireplace, you don’t want them dangling too low above the flames.

Christmas cards

These are a great way to keep the Christmas cheer flowing in your household. Whether they’re from members of your close family, a next door neighbour, or someone you only see around the coffee machine at work, putting cards on your mantelpiece reminds you how many well-wishes you’ve received and they make for fantastic decoration. They’re not too bad for stoking the ego either! Just make sure to keep them well back from the edge or put another decoration in front of them. The clue to their flammability is in the name.

Wreaths/Flowers

Lots of people like to put floral items up on their mantelpieces for the rest of the year, and there’s absolutely no reason why that should stop at Christmas. You can make your own flower arrangements that show off your skill, and there are plenty of seasonal flowers and plants associated with the winter time, including holly, ivy, Christmas rose, and mistletoe, all of which are in keeping with the traditional colour themes of red, white and green. They can bring a touch of the organic to your decoration, and they’ll complement your Christmas tree marvellously. As with the stockings, don’t let them hang too low, even if they’re not real flowers.

Figurines

Some people like to decorate their mantelpieces with various types of figurines that are associated with Christmas. Ornaments such as this sell enormously well at this time of year and as a result, there are quite a number to choose from. Whether you’re into singing angels, a frosted tree, or even a cartoonish Santa Claus surrounded by empty mince pie foils struggling to fit down a chimney – whatever kind of Christmas you want to celebrate, someone’s most likely moulded, fired and glazed it into a beautiful ornament so it can be proudly displayed in your home. Though these aren’t a particular fire hazard, hardened clay can be sharp if it’s broken, so as with the cards, keep them away from the edge and ensure they stay up there for all to see and admire.

Have a great time decorating your homes this Christmas, whatever way you choose, and more importantly, stay safe while you do it.

The Fireplace Studio are proud to stock and supply a wide range of gas and electric fireplaces, in a variety of styles. Our expert team are always on hand to help you, so get in touch with us today if you would like to know more.