The editors at This Old House helped make Blair House, the presidential guest house in Washington, D.C., festive for Christmas. Check out the clever, low-cost ideas they used to create a holiday with a little history.
Pomegranates are traditionally a symbol of prosperity; Thomas Jefferson is said to have tried to grow them (unsuccessfully) at Monticello. Together with magnolia leaves, pine cones, and pheasant feathers, they make a beautiful natural garland to dress up a plain mantel or complement a grand one.
Garland custom made for This Old House by Lee's Flower and Card Shop, a Teleflora florist. Directions for making a similar one, using about $100 in materials, are available through POM Wonderful. Pheasant feather bunch, about $5; Michaels.
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