Summer "Mantel" & Old Faded Book Page Flag

It is almost the 4th of July (okay, 2 weeks away, but that is pretty darn close) to almost and that means it is time to decorate for the fourth.  So last night while not sleeping I came up with this giant flag idea for my "mantel", aka, shelf.

I drew stars on old book pages and watercolored them blue.  Some of the blank pages I watercolred red (which comes out pink or faded red as I like to call it).

I added some barnwood trim to a 3'x4' bulletin I had picked up at a garage sale.  I attached the trim with brad nails.

Next, you simply staple the book pages in place.

I would have liked one more row of red and I could have turned the pages the other way, but oh well, I am happy with it this way too.

Some other fun touches for my summer mantel include a vintage picnic basket with painted spindles on it, an old camera, and a red metal pipe fitting.

In the other corner I added a red, sort of white, and blue book, my favorite little red cowboy boots and some Montana driftwood.

I love the fresh look for summer!

Linking up at Coastal Charm