Adding a breath of fresh air to a room can be as easy as revamping your fireplace mantel décor. Even if you don't have a fireplace you can add a floating mantel as a focal point or an accent. Simply find a mantel that you like and install it according to the manufacturer's instructions. Then comes the fun part: adding a bit of your personality to your fireplace mantel.

Ideas for Decorating a Mantel

Whether you have a wood-burning, gas, or electric fireplace, these ideas can inspire you:

* Pick a Theme - Your fireplace mantel décor should blend with the rest of your room. If you pick colors that will stand out, stay in the same color tone as your current decorations. Pick pieces that complement the style of the room, whether it is a contemporary, rustic, or modern design.

* Start from the Bottom Up - Fabric or lace accents add romance when draped on your mantel. Be sure not to hang your drape too low, as it may burn or catch fire.

* Use Symmetry - Fireplace mantel décor has changed from the days when you needed two matching vases to create symmetry. Try balancing with color, shapes, or sizes; for example, balance a vase with candles of similar height at either end of the mantel.

* Try Layering - You don't want your mantel to look cluttered, but by using items of different heights and shapes you can create texture and depth.

* Prop Up Art - Instead of hanging mirrors or art, try propping them against the mantel for more casual, interesting fireplace mantel décor.

* Use Nature - Driftwood, shells, pressed leaves, and dried flowers can give you striking fireplace mantel décor look for less.

* Back to Basics - A mantel clock is always the traditional option if you're having trouble with your fireplace mantel décor.

Mantel decorating can give you the opportunity to add your personality to any room with a fireplace. By experimenting and looking for unusual touches to complement the rest of your room, you're sure to come up with an arrangement that is not only the focal point of the room, but a reflection of who you are.

Safety First for Fireplace Tools

A fireplace can be warm and inviting, but a fire can be extremely dangerous. Many tools you use for your fireplace will be going directly into the fire, so you need to make sure they are fire-resistant and safe for you to handle. Obviously, anything that does go into the fire should be made of a durable material, such as wrought iron. But if you don't like the look of wrought iron, there are plenty of other materials you can choose from that include brass, copper, bronze, nickel, graphite, stainless steel, pewter, and more. In addition, a good pair of fire-resistant gloves will prevent your hands from burning.

Fireplace Tools and Your Home Décor

Safety and functionality are key components to choosing the right fireplace tools for your fireplace, but these tools are also decorative pieces that add style to your fireplace and your home. As a result, you don't want to just choose the first set that you see. There are many different styles available, from traditional to contemporary, that can complement the current design of your home. Use your current home décor as a guide when you choose the look of your new fireplace accessories. If you're looking for something with an antique feel, don't buy the sleek stainless steel fireplace tool set. Wait until you find the set that works for you.