So, here we are again, fall mantels.

Whoo, that went fast.

I knew I wanted to work with owls and feathers, kind of obsessed with them lately.

But, other than that, I wasn’t sure.

It was actually my sister’s idea to use the door as the back drop – Thanks!

Owls, Feather, Vintage Door

I started with the large gold frame with the intention to use it like a shadow box / wreath center point.

Except, that chose to put it off center.

Owls, Feather, Gourds, Fall Mantel

Then, I remembered that I had a box of gilded framed mirrors that I had bought an auction and I began layering them.

Wasn’t sure what I was going to do with them when I got them but I sure am glad I had them.

Owls, Feather, Gourds, Fall Mantel, Vintage Door

Then I added feathers, owls, pinecones, mirrors, candles and a few white gourds.

Owls, Feather, Gourds, Fall Mantel, Vintage Door

This frame was in the box as well with the amazing playing card already in the frame.

Owls, Feather, Gourds, Fall Mantel, Vintage Door

There were also a few raised silhouettes, almost like cameos.

Owls, Feather, Gourds, Fall Mantel, Vintage Door

I added a few small books, an old skeleton key and some brass door knobs.

Owls, Feather, Gourds, Fall Mantel, Vintage Door

Owls, Feather, Gourds, Fall Mantel, Vintage Door

I changed up the pillows on the sofas and chairs bringing in a more fall vibe.

Owls, Feather, Gourds, Fall Mantel, Vintage Door

I hung one of the mirrors on a ribbon and hung my Parisian skeleton key, a favorite treasure of mine.

Owls, Feather, Gourds, Fall Mantel, Vintage Door

Owls, Feather, Gourds, Fall Mantel, Vintage Door

Owls, Feather, Gourds, Fall Mantel, Vintage Door

I also lit the candles tonight and tried my hand at photographing in candle light.

Owls, Feather, Gourds, Fall Mantel, Vintage Door

Owls, Feather, Gourds, Fall Mantel, Vintage Door

I am sharing this project at

Layla and Kevin over at The Lettered Cottage are hosting a Fall Mantel Party – Stop on by!

The Lettered Cottage

I will also be sharing at some of the Link Parties you can find here.

And here

Thanks so much for stopping by!

September 23, 2011 — Laura Putnam