Christmas Decorating with Antiques and Collectibles

Antiques and collectibles add a nostalgic flair to Christmas decorating. Old and vintage items mix well with modern decorations. Here are tips for festive holiday decorating with antiques and collectibles.

Antique Glass Christmas Decorating
Old china and glassware add an out-of-the-ordinary touch to Christmas decorations. Whether you have a few pieces or a larger collection, there are many possibilities. Antique plates, for example, with floral holiday motifs - poinsettias, mistletoe, pinecones, etc., would look sensational displayed across a greens-covered mantle. Single vintage glassware pieces, for instance a 1960s Santa-decorated punchbowl, or a1940s green Depression glass lemonade set, make unusual centerpieces or buffet toppers.

Add greenery, Christmas flowers, or a few sparkly ornaments to finish your antique glass arrangements. Also consider using old bottles, vases, and other china and glass containers in your decorating. For instance, a personal favorite of mine, a small antique red crackle glass pitcher, looks sensational holding a few sprigs of fragrant greenery.

Christmas Decorating with Stuffed Animals and Dolls
Do you collect stuffed animals or dolls? Include them in your decorating for a fun and festive look. If you love teddies, for example, a family of bears dressed up for the holidays in Christmas ribbon bows or Santa hats would look adorable grouped in a chair, trunk, toy wagon, or even under the tree. You might arrange some holiday motif fabric around them to add to the cozy look.

A collection of other types of stuffed animals would work as well, or a mixture of all types, decked out for Christmas. Or if you collect vintage or modern dolls, try making hair bows and doll clothes from holiday ribbons and fabrics. Arrange them among a setting of small wrapped packages and toys, or in a chair, trunk, etc., as suggested for stuffed animals.