Spring Decorating Ideas

Spring decorating doesn't have to be hard, or expensive. Following are some ideas to get you started.

1. Tablecloths make everything more festive. Now is a good time to change from the deep warm winter tones to bright floral prints and pastel colors. Try a green one topped with a smaller floral cloth. Turn the floral cloth so that the corners fall at the sides. Add a basket of fruit for a homey look.

2. Don't forget flowers. A vase of daisies or tulips in the center of the table is a welcoming sight. You can also add a pretty spring wreath to your front door. Get a Styrofoam wreath form or a grapevine wreath, silk flowers- a floral garland and a green leafy garland, and a stapler or twist ties, and a big bright bow, or course. First, twist the floral and greenery garlands together. Next, wrap them around the wreath form. Hold them in place with a couple of staples or the twist ties. Add your bow and you have a wonderful welcome wreath for your door. You can leave it simple, or add a little chick or bunny for Easter. Dress it up with a little bean bag baby doll for Mother's Day.

3. You can make a swag for over a doorway or alcove entrance. Just gather a few thin branches of different lengths-you can also buy these. Get some of your favorite silk flowers and some greenery. Leaving some space in the center for a bow, weave the flowers and greenery through the branches and tuck the ends in-or if you're using a floral garland, staple the ends in place. Add a bright bow, and, maybe a small bird or two, and you have a pretty piece.

4. You can make a bird nest with some raffia or straw. Use an old small basket for the base. Line it with the raffia or straw. Paint two or three Styrofoam eggs a pretty light blue. You can also wrap them in blue tissue paper. Tie the ends off and trim them. Add them to the nest, tucking them into the straw somewhat. Finally, add a little bird to the nest. You can tuck your nest up on a shelf, up in the branches of your indoor Fichus tree, or anywhere else it might "stand out".