An undecorated mantel can make the whole living room feel unfinished, and xmas mantle garlands solve that with one piece. The garland sits along the shelf, spills over the edge, and gives you a neutral base to layer lights, ribbon, and stockings onto. It suits small fireplaces that cannot take a heavy arrangement as well as large ones that need volume, and it works with real or artificial greenery depending on how long you want it up. It is also the easiest place to start if you are decorating room by room.
Measure the shelf and then add the drop you want at each end, since a garland that only matches the mantel length will look skimpy. A wired artificial strand holds a drape better than loose greenery and can be refluffed each year. Keep fresh greenery away from the firebox and never let it sit above a lit fire. Use small clips to attach lights and ornaments, and check that hanging stockings will not pull the strand out of shape.
