Pottery Barn Christmas Garland Knock-off

Welcome to the 96th Metamorphosis Monday!

Today has been a crazy day! It started with me cutting a deep 1 inch gash through the underside of my wrist while trying to open a can of kitty food. Please, if you ever start peeling back the metal lid on cat food or any can with a pull tab, and it gets stuck, don’t decide to pull even harder. Trust me on this! Just stop and use a can opener.

When the lid finally let go, it snapped back hard and sliced my wrist open pretty badly. Let’s just say it was bad enough I called 911 because I was alone and couldn’t drive myself to the hospital. I became really light-headed and felt like I would pass out. I had images of bleeding to death while I was out. 🙁

What a way to start my day! I know the neighbors think I’m nuts with paramedics and the Fire Dept. showing up this morning! I decided to not go to the hospital since they got the bleeding stopped and bandaged me up.  I’d show you a pic but then you’d NEVER come back to my blog! :}

Thank goodness my Met Monday project was 99% completed yesterday, including the “installation.” I had planned on adding a bit more to it today, to make it fuller. It just hurt my wrist too much to work on it today. So if it’s a bit sparse here and there, you’ll know why. Okay, on with the good stuff!

Metamorphosis Monday:

Even the crazy start to my day couldn’t stop me from sharing a metamorphosis I’ve been busting to tell you about ever since I started working on it.  Last year, I received a Pottery Barn catalog in the mail and it pictured this house.  I about died.  Is it not absolutely gorgeous all decked out for Christmas?   A few weeks ago, I received another PB sales booklet in the mail and it was in there AGAIN! That did it! I was now officially obsessed. I wanted that garland on my house for Christmas this year soooo badly! I went online to Pottery Barn and began clicking away to order.

Make This Pottery Barn Inspired Garland

 

During the ordering process, I realized the garland is only 5 feet long (60 inches…no way that would be long enough for a column. I would need two garlands per column. My columns are 7 1/2 feet tall, so 5 feet just isn’t gonna cut it. Five feet wouldn’t even reach from top to bottom if it wasn’t wrapped around the column. Anyone who orders the PB garland will need two garlands per column. At $109.00 for two, it would be $218 to wrap just two columns. Yikes!

Pottery Barn Christmas Garland Knock-off

I am a true believer in saving money and being frugal when I can. So, there was no way I was going to spend $218 to decorate two columns, even if I am completely obsessed with the PB decorated house above.

So what to do?

I visited all my favorite discount stores and created the look above for less than half! Here’s how I did it:

I went to Lowe’s and purchased two of the spruce garland shown below. It’s 9 ft long, 4 feet longer than the PB garland and just long enough to wrap three times around each column as shown in the PB pic. Plus, it has lights…the PB garland does not. Yay! 🙂 The garland was $25.97 each.

Pottery Barn Christmas Garland Knock-off

Plastic…Not my fave but necessary:
I read the description and the PB garland is covered in plastic ornaments. Now, I have to tell you, I’m a bit of an ornament snob and I am just not crazy about plastic ornaments. But, I know glass ornaments would never hold up to extreme weather changes and being banged around on porches and columns during the decorating process. The PB ad said their ornament garland is made to withstand the harshest weather, so I knew this was the reason their garland had plastic ornaments. It looked gorgeous, so I got past my ornament snobbery and headed off to Old Time Pottery where I had seen rows of plastic ornaments the year before.

I bought quite a few boxes of silver and red ornaments…shiny, glitter and satin finish. Each box contained 24 ornaments for only $4.99…great deal! I used 7 boxes total on the two 9 ft garland. Also, I stopped by Dollar Tree and picked up two skinny tubes of the small red, plastic ornaments for $1 each. I ended up using 1 tube on each garland. You can see them lying across the top of the other ornaments below. At first I used the really big ornament balls you see pictured below, but ultimately, I decided they were two big and took them back off and returned them with the others I didn’t need.

Pottery Barn Christmas Garland Knock-off

AFTER:
Please keep in mind
, I haven’t finished decorating the porch, yet. I’ll be adding some fresh garland and a fresh wreath, etc… I just wanted to share this with you now so if you are obsessed over the house in the PB ad, you’ll know you can get the look for a lot less.

Make This Pottery Barn Inspired Garland

 

I have about 25 ornaments left over that I had planned to add to it today, but after my “mishap” this morning, I just couldn’t do it. So imagine it with a few more ornaments in the skimpier spots. Now I just need snow like the PB pic.

Make This Pottery Barn Inspired Garland

With the porch lights on…A final view…

Front Porch Decorated for Christmas with Triple Wreaths on Door and Pottery Barn Knock-off Garland

 

My Cost:

All in all I spent $51.94 for the two 9ft. lit garlands from Lowe’s and $36.93 for all the ornaments from Old Time Pottery and Dollar Tree…for a total of $88.87 (plus tax). That’s well under half of what it would have cost if I had bought the PB garland at $218 (plus tax). I will do a complete tutorial on how I created my garlands in an upcoming post…so you can get the PB look for less than half the price, too! 🙂  Update:  You’ll find the complete tutorial here:  Pottery Barn Inspired Garland Tutorial:  Make Your Own for less than half the PB price

Metamorphosis Monday:

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Comments

  1. Stephanie Lynn @Under the Table and Dreaming says

    Oh Goodness – Simply gorgeous! Fantastic job! Hvae a great week and wonderful holiday. ~ Stephanie Lynn

  2. Kim @ Savvy Southern Style says

    Ouch, Susan. That made me cringe. I hope you don't need stitches. Your porch looks great and what a great way to get the look without going in debt.

  3. Oh man, im so glad we aren't the only ones at my household that are prepping for Christmas Decorating!

    All this weekend was spent getting the lights ready and putting them up on tree's and bushes outside.

    Neighbors were walking by, probly thought we were nuts lol!

    Very pretty. I love your columns and the garland looks so lovely paired with them!

  4. Cassie @ Primitive & Proper says

    that entry is stunning!!!! i love the garlands and ornies!

  5. Wow, Susan… I have to say that your version is just as beautiful if not MORE beautiful than PB's! Great job – love it! You're such an inspiration! ♥

  6. Decorchick! says

    Wow Susan! I am so sorry about your wrist. 🙁 But I'm glad you are ok. Your porch is just gorgeous. I really need your topiary trees for mine! 🙂 Good job on recreating PB's garland, it looks great!

  7. Custom Comforts says

    Your garland is just as pretty as theirs, plus it lights up for half the cost. What a deal and you have the satisfaction of knowing you not only saved money, but made it yourself. As for the snow ~ you could have that too. I hate to tell you, but the snow in the picture isn't real. That's fake snow 🙂
    Your porch is gorgeous!
    Cindy

  8. Jess @ Frugal with a Flourish says

    Wow!!! I just love it!! Looks fantastic!! I have been coveting that for my own front door. Beautiful!

  9. Kim @ Second Time Furniture says

    You did a beautiful job re-creating the PB idea! It looks fabulous at night! Thanks so much for hosting the party! 🙂
    Kim

  10. I think you were very wise to call for help. Hope you are better soon. It always happens when we are the busiest! (Hope your cat got fed too! ha!!!!)
    Your garland is drop-dead gorgeous. I am heading out to Lowe's tomorrow as soon as I get off of work. Hope you don't mind me copying you exactly. It is beautiful. I had not seen the pic before.
    Thanks for the great ideas …as always!! Hope you get better soon. Lori L

  11. Mid-Atlantic Martha says

    Oh SUSAN! Sorry about your sliced wrist — scary for sure. Love your beautiful garland for your porch — can't wait to see all the finishing touches too. Hope you're a fast healer….too much holiday ahead to be under the weather (even 73 degree weather!)

  12. Susan, my jaw just dropped! I fell in love with the garland in the Pottery Barn catalog last year also. You did a great job. I have a brick house, but don't have the columns. It looks perfect on your brick home! Let it snow :o)

    I will discontinue pulling back the lid on the can…I do it all the time and will NEVER do it again. I hope you heal quickly.

  13. tales from an oc cottage says

    Woooooooooo hoooooooooo to youuuuuuuu!
    It looks PERFECT! {hee! hee! sorry Pottery Barn…no sale! ;} And your last picture looks like Narnia in the Fall!

    m ^..^
    {my nephew promised pictures of Noel
    very soon!}

  14. Melissa Miller says

    Susan OMG you poor thing! You just lived out my worst nightmare since you know being a military wife I am home alone sometimes. Yikes! I'm so sorry and believe me I know what you mean about those kitty cans too. I'll be extra careful from now on. Heal quickly!

    The decor' looks so stunning! I am going to go for very simple this year. I'm inspireed by seeing this. I can't wait to see the tutorial.

    The moon is amazing and you took a good photo. The moon this evening has a unique story behind it. Check out yahoo.

    Love your new blog look.
    Gorgeous!

    Happy Thanksgiving!
    ~Melissa 🙂

  15. Beautiful job! Your porch is gorgeous! Hope your wrist doesn't need stitches.
    Sherry

  16. Joy @ Thrifty Parsonage Living says

    What a great PB knock off! Your porch looks beautiful!!!

  17. Sorry about your morning mishap! WOW You did a fantastic job recreating the PB garland! I have a wrap around porch with 6 posts that I wrap with lit garland, would love to do that to mine!

  18. I hope you have had a tetanus shot! I am so sorry you cut yourself — that is really scary.

    The garland is so pretty! I know the entire scene will rival PB's when you are done.

  19. southerninspiration says

    Oh, it looks fabulous! And I"m so, so sorry for your accident! Hope it heals quickly!
    Looking forward to seeing how you did your garland.

    Suzanne

  20. I love your garland and thanks for hosting!!!

  21. ann @ mylifeasprose says

    i LOVE the result of your porch!! way to go, susan!! 🙂

  22. Estela @ Weekly Bite says

    It looks beautiful!! Its scary how much PB marks up their items!

  23. Sorry about your wrist, I have done the EXACT same thing and it hurts like the dickens. Hope you heal up soon. I LOVE the garland, I think I like yours better with the addition of the lights. Your porch is going to be gorgeous, can't wait to see it finished. Our sky was amazing tonight too, the moon kept playing hide and seek behind clouds and it was a "Harry Potter" sky for sure! Kat

  24. Ouch! I've done that light headed thing with a cut and it's scary. Hope you feel better soon. I had a mishap with a vegetable peeler – tiny mishap – but my finger is so sore.
    I have to say you have outdone PB with that garland. I can't tell the difference- it is gorgeous. You know you can use the left overs on your topiaries for a matching look.You cannot tell a glass from a plastic one so for outdoor use, it's a no brainer. This year I'm going with white garlands and candy ornaments on my door- wish me luck.

  25. Susan- Sorry about your accident. I hope you do not need stitches. You may also need a tetanus shot. I also love the PB look, but I do not have any columns in front of my house. I will be using big lanterns with candles and luminaries, and garland around my door with white lights. I thought I might add some apples, pears and other fruit for a little Williamsburg look. I love Christmas. I wish I could decorate several houses with different looks. Have a Happy Thanksgiving.

  26. The columns look beautiful. So sorry you cut yourself. Glad you called 911, was probably the safe thing to do!

  27. So sorry about you mishap,but your garland came out gorgeous.I love PB but for me they are for inspiration purposes only,considering my beer budget and all.

  28. Glad your okay. That can be pretty scary especially if you're home by yourself. I love that picture…the garland, the gate, the red door. Your house looks almost the same (I'm jealous) and that garland looks awesome! I didn't notice any skimpy spots. Can't wait to see the tutorial.

  29. Susan (My Place to Yours) says

    Susan, I'm so sorry about your wrist. You're not trying to get out of cooking Thanksgiving dinner are you? 🙂

    Your garland looks great! I love "shopping at the top" to get ideas … then recreating them in a budget-friendly manner. Nice work!

    Happy Thanksgiving to you and yours!

  30. Luncheons at the Junction says

    Susan, you did all of this with an injured wrist? Amazing job! It's just beautiful.

  31. Joselyn@thediyspot says

    Sorry you injured yourself and hope things go okay with the doctor tomorrow. Love your garland! It is a beautiful knock off. Thanks for hosting especially under such unpleasant circumstances. Your dedication to your blog and readers is truly admirable.

  32. Beautiful and very creative. Love how you created it for less.

  33. My front porch is almost identical (maybe completely) and I have been considering something new this year. This may be just the thing! Great job!–and no way could I have spent the PB $$$ either. I love Dave too 🙂

  34. Julia @ Hooked on Houses says

    Oh, wow, that's scary! I'm glad you're okay. Also, just have to tell you how much I like your new header. It's so cheery, it just makes me smile when it comes up on my screen! 🙂

  35. I hope you won't need stitches, Susan. ugh, I hope it heals quickly for you and that you are not in pain. Please take care of yourself. I love what you did with the garlands. Love it! Your house is so beautiful! Have a good evening!
    Sandra

  36. Pati @ A Crafty Escape says

    Stunning!!! I love yours and think it's a thousand times better than theirs. Sorry about your mishap… hope the glue works tomorrow.

  37. You must be so proud of those columns! Your garlands really surpass the PB ones with those lights. Really stunning. Hope the wrist heals quickly. Looking forward to that tutorial!

  38. bcp.....My Life says

    Great job with your porch! I love the "night" shots! Thanks for hosting.

  39. I am so very sorry that you had that mishap with the cat food can. I will certainly keep that in mind with the next one that is stuck. I'm glad it turned out well, in spite of the mishap, your lighted porch columns are simply great. What a great way to save.

  40. Cindy (Applestone Cottage) says

    So sorry about your wrist Susan.
    That must have been quite scary.
    Your PB look is just gorgeous!
    I can't wait to see the tutorial!
    And your right, all you need now is the snow although with 73 degrees it may be awhile.
    Hugs,
    Cindy

  41. Oh so sorry to hear about your unfortunate incident. I do hope everything goes well at the doctor.
    Your garland is just lovely and affordable. Two words that I love to hear:) Looking forward to your tutorial.
    Thanks for hosting,
    Crystal

  42. Susan gosh I'm sorry to hear about your wrist! I'm just glad you're ok. Well, you outdid yourself this time. Wow, the garland looks just like the PB garland. Congrats. I can't wait to see the porch finished. You always have such great style. Have a wondeful week.

    Cheryl

  43. marty (A Stroll Thru Life) says

    Susan, your garland looks wonderful. What a fabulous look and I really like the lights. So sorry about your arm. I sincerely hope it is ok. Hugs, Marty

  44. Your garland is beautiful! I am so sorry about your wrist. Hopefully, no stitches will be needed. I am looking forward to more Christmas from your lovely home.
    Carolyn

  45. Sherry @ No Minimalist Here says

    Susan, This is beautiful! All you need now is the snow. I hope your wrist is feeling better soon.
    Hugs, Sherry

  46. Carmen @ Life with Sprinkles on Top says

    Sorry about your mishap with the can. Ouch!

    I love your version of the garland. I think yours is even better since it lights up. So pretty!

  47. Confessions of a Plate Addict says

    Hi Susan! What a great looking garland…and with lights! There will be none left on the shelves at Lowes tomorrow! lol So sorry about your cut! I started using the kind in the little plastic cups with paper lids for just that reason! Happy Thanksgiving!…hugs…Debbie

  48. Pam @ diy Design Fanatic says

    Oh my gosh Susan! I'm glad you are ok & hope that your wound heals quickly!
    I love your PB garland knockoff! It looks fantastic!

  49. Designs on 47th Street says

    Hi Susan, I am SO sorry to read about your accident. I know exactly the point where the lid will not budge easily. I think they have change the lid design. It didn't use to be that hard. I will be careful and I'm sorry you had such a nasty cut. Oh the brighter side, your garlands oh SO BEAUTIFUL!! Well worth the effort and what a savings. You did real GOOD! 🙂

    Donna

  50. What a beautiful addition to your already handsome porch and entry…..you did fantastic making an even better PB version as I think the lights are a MUST. If your kitty only knew the sacrifice you gave to feed her/him!! Thankful you are OK!! Hope you are healed enough for all the cooking this week! Happy Thanksgiving and here comes Christmas! Toni

  51. Vintagesouthernlife says

    So sorry about your wrist. That would be scary being there alone. Glad you are o.k.

    Your garland is beautiful! Thanks for sharing.I can't wait for the tutorial.

  52. So sorry about your wrist! I love your porch, what a great deal!! Your picture of the night sky is gorgeous! What a pretty night!

  53. Designs By Pinky says

    OMG! I am so sorry about your wrist!!!!! That is awful, and I wonder if the paramedics were wondering if you had tried to kill yourself!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! Oh dear!!!! I am hoping you won't need stiches! Now….OMG your columns look AWESOME!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!! I feel in love with that house last year too! You ahve done SUCH a great job! Looks fantastic! I hope we are still on for out phone help sometime this week! Or next if you are too busy!!!! XO, Pinky

  54. Jenny Harris says

    Sorry about your mishap, good luck with speedy healing.

    The garland looks fantastic! Great job! Your porch is so pretty, and the photography was great too! Looking forward to getting into the swing of Christmas decorating soon.

  55. That catalog picture is just gorgeous, I want that house.
    Yours is just as beautiful. I am thrifty as well. Love how you got what you wanted at the fraction of the cost. Its just soooo pretty.

  56. sharonavinger says

    Oh, Susan, I hope your poor wrist doesn't need stitches, but you might need an antibiotic so I'm happy you are seeing your doctor tomorrow. Your porch columns are beautiful! You did such a fantastic job on a budget. Where do you get your energy from, girl?

  57. Handy Man, Crafty Woman says

    That garland looks great!! Good for you for finding less expensive materials.

    Thanks for hosting this great blog party.

  58. You are so clever! I love how yours turned out and at half the price. I'm making a list of things to create one for our home.

    Jo

  59. GORGEOUS, Susan…I have looked at similiar garlands at a Christmas site, 7ft for about 75 bucks…believe me I will be at Lowes in the a.m….thanks for helping us..
    Hugs, Lisa

  60. Kathy's Red Door Welcome says

    I am so impressed with what you accomplished. I work for PB and I can't even afford those garlands with my discount, so kudos to you for being so ingenious! Have a very Happy Thanksgiving!

  61. Great photos, Susan! I love what you did to the columns…Christine

  62. Graceful Moments says

    I almost did the same thing with a can of soup the other day. I'm glad you called 911 and are going to the doctor, especially since it was cat food. Hope it heals up uickly…this is definitely NOT the time of year when you want to have an injury like that.

    Your porch looks lovely with your hacked garlands! I like yours better because of the lights. Will be watching for the tutorial!

    Still reeling from reading your investigative link post! You're an amazing woman!

  63. Heaven's Walk - says

    I think your columns look just as beautiful as the PB ones, Susan! Super job! And such a trooper you are…..doing it one handed. LOL! Hope you heal quickly, friend. And—-your porch is just breathtaking and oh so welcoming! Have a blessed Thanksgiving!

    xoxo laurie

  64. Oh WOW! You did a wonderful job! I totally know what you mean. We have this open staircase/hallway and it needs a buttload of garland, no way I'm going to spend the kind of prices that are out there! So we got some basic garland this weekend, hoping to jazz it up with some pinecones from our walks, fake berries and ornaments (plastic as well, I know what you mean though!!). Your front porch looks goregous… I have column envy!

    Hope your wrist is okay and quickly on the mend!! Can't have you benched for holiday prepping and decorationg 😉

  65. Splendid Sass says

    Whoa… you did a great job! Looks fabulous.
    Good luck with your cut. Hurts me just thinking about it. Little prayer coming your way tomorrow.
    Teresa

  66. Rachelle @ Adventures in Creating says

    Love the porch all lit up! Beautiful!

  67. Terri at Finder's Keeper's says

    Amazing. Your porch all lit up takes my breath away.

    Of course, you cutting your wrist took it away too. Be sure to get it checked out and keep it from getting infected.

    Have a blessed Thanksgiving. I am heading out to see the NC moon:)

  68. LOL I have the PB wreath and garland. I bought them on their clearance a couple of Christmas's back. I have never used them, I think they still have the paper wrappings on the ornaments from shipping! I should send them to you!
    Your porch is beautiful! I showed my husband your posting on how you had it built- truly amazing and great workmanship!
    Love the pictures of the blue moon…I didn't know about that..Thanks for sharing.
    Happy Thanksgiving, Liz

  69. Wow! Gorgeous and the price is wonderful! You have inspired me to invest the time to search out, track down, and create!

  70. Purnima@a creative project says

    Awesome!! Fantastic project!! Your version looks much more prettier than the PB one!!!

  71. GREAT post. Will have to try it. With lights, yours are an even better bargain and look as amazing as PB's. Sorry about the wrist. Always hate it when something silly like that happens in a matter of seconds and interfers with everything on the to do list for days, esp this time of year. Aloe, 100% pure, orally and topically is all I can say.

  72. Andrea (Softer Side of Me) says

    Susan, I am so sorry to hear of you misfortune! I hope things go well tomorrow at the dr. You porch transformation is beautiful! I am not a fan of plastic either, but I do use them outside. No one will know it's plastic!

  73. Oh my Goodness! I hope your tetanus booster is up to date! I open at least six cans of kitty food per day…very tricky sometimes. I hope it all comes out okay for you! Good luck at the Doctors…that liquid skin glue is amazing!
    I too and a HUGH Dave Ramsey fan. I am on a 5yr completely debt free plan so I am not buying anything new to decorate with this year…No worries as I have TONS of XMAS decor in boxes to see me thru. I will keep your garland tutorial in my XMAS Idea Decor Box for future reference next year when the budget can perhaps afford newer decorations…
    Happy Turkey Lurkey day and God Bless! Carole M.

  74. I wouldn't feel the least bit odd calling 911 with a bleeding open cut like you describe. I'm sure they have been called for far less worthy reasons!! I am surprised, however, that the ER didn't stitch, staple, or butterfly it! So, now you get to make yet another visit to a doctor to evaluate what the cut needs!?! What did the ER do? Just say "Ah, yep, that's a cut all right!" ??????

    Lighted Garland and topiaries are beautiful at night! I look forward to seeing the final result when you add the wreath, ribbons/bows, additional ornaments, etc. Gee, I love outside decorations for Christmas!

  75. Katie@LeBeauPaonVictorien says

    Oooooh….yours is definitely prettier…because it lights up!
    Beautiful porch decor; it looks magical all lit up!

  76. Thelittlebrownhouse.us says

    Absolutely gorgeous! And Dave Ramsey would be proud!!

  77. Kim @ Starshine Chic says

    Glad to hear that you are going to live. Whew, that was a close one. At least your garland looks fabulous. Can't wait to see when you are completely done.

  78. Cozy Home Scenes says

    I hope your wrist is okay and you didn't need stiches. Notice I said didn't. If you needed them, more then likely, a doctor will not do them now. My dad got a bad cut and thought he would be okay without getting stitches, but by the next day, he decided it was bad enough to see his doctor.

    His doctor said stitches have to be done on the day of the injury or you can risk infection if they stitch it up later. Long story short, but my dad had to have his wound opened more to be able to medicate the wound to heal it.

    Next time if you are in doubt, I'd see a doctor immediately. But in the meantime, I do hope you are okay and glad you didn't have as bad of an injury as you could have! 🙂

  79. Hello Susan,

    Your garland looks awesome! I'd take those extra ornaments and put them on your topiaries…. Your home is absolutely BEAUTIFUL.

  80. The Reluctant Blogger says

    I am so glad you are ok…and good job calling 911 instead of waiting or driving yourself!

    I love the garland and have fell in love with the same images for the last two years. I am looking forward to your tutorial on them too!

    Take care.

    PS I love the new header!

  81. Oh my stars and hearts!!! I just about passed out when I saw your blog! This is one of my favorite PB pictures ever! My porch is just like it also! I bought oodles of ornaments last year to do this and ended up using real garland so I didn't get to it. Now I am totally inspired! Yours looks wonderful!!!

    So sorry to hear about your accident! Glad you are o.k!

  82. Morning Susan

    Very sensible to call 911 (999 here) as you were alone. Hope it is all ok when you visit your doctor.

    Love the porch, very early for any decorations for us here in the UK, but I suppose you start early for thanksgiving.

    When I was a child it was all done on Christmas Eve, but I usually like to do it the week before Christmas. Although I am quite organised with the Christmas presents.
    Happy Thanksgiving, Jackie in Surrey, UK.

  83. Life on an artistic shoestring says

    Looks very lovely, but I would go a little farther with this idea and connect the two column garlands on the top. Just seems to need a little arch above them to complete the classy look. JMHO. -shirl

  84. Dear Susan,
    I am sorry for your hurting. I know how it is because I had cut myself on a broken bottle, got stiched and still have no feeling in that finger. But everything will heal after a while. Poor girl!
    But you did an amazing job with your garland. It looks very festive and it is absolutely gorgeous when lighting in the evening. I really think about doing something like that.
    Susan, check the LINK for Dec., 6. It didn't work when I tried to go there. Maybe it is something with my connection but maybe it is something wrong with the link.
    Warmest regards, Johanna

  85. oh my, I hope your wrist is feeling better today. I am so glad you called 911! What a scary thing to have happen.

    Your porch is so very beautfiul! I am looking forward to more information on how you made your garlands.

    Please take care of yourself.

    Mary

  86. Wow!!! Looks fantastic, absolutely beautiful:))
    Thanks for hosting, hugs Biljana

  87. You have inspired me! I wanted to do something different on my porch and I think that this will be it. I hope that your wrist will be all better very soon.

  88. Good thinking to call 911 while you were still conscious, Susan…that could have been disastrous! (I hope you remembered to unlock the front door, just in case you passed out)
    What would we do without you & your beautiful blog???

    Some bloggers are making a button that folks can use to let people contact a real life local friend if a blogger goes missing for a long time. The idea was created so we don't worry too much about our online friends when real life gets in the way of their blogging.

    Take for instance, Phyllis at href=http://aroundrhouse.blogspot.com/
    She hasn't blogged since July & lots of people are wondering what has happened to her. In her profile, she mentions having had some health issues. We worry, ya' know!!

    Donna at Brynwood Needleworks href=http://brynwoodneedleworks.blogspot.com/ has an "Emergency Contact Button" linking to one of her close friends who will be able to provide reassuring information if she goes missing. (extended vacation/illness/car accident/hospitalization)
    Just a thought. I have named MamaCJT href=http://mamacjt.blogspot.com/ as my contact.

    Totally in love with your PB adaptation…well done & mega savings, to boot!

    Have a wonderfully blessed Thanksgiving holiday. Bring a coat if you're coming to our area…its COLD!

  89. I thought about you all yesterday, Susan. Good luck at the doctor today. Hopefully, all you will need is a bit of surgical adhesive and a clean dressing.

    I love, love, love your garland. And, I agree the PB house is "to die for". Your home is gorgeous, too.♥

  90. ouch i did that years ago so i know about the lightheadness and "i'm gonna bleed to death!* hope your all better till holidays…porch looks awesome!!

  91. Wow, glad you're OK! That could have ended badly! That was my favorite house from the PB catalog. We normally just wrap our columns in red ribbon, but I'd love to give the garland a go! Will be looking forward to your tutorial. Yours looks amazing.

  92. OH! I am so sorry you hurt yourself. Hoping it heals well and quickly for you, without pain!
    Your garlands are absolutely beautiful–and now I am obsessed with that house too–especially the SNOW! I guess maybe a trip for some plastic ornaments could be in order–though I don't exactly have your lovely double columns!
    Thanks for the inspiration, and TAKE CARE of YOU!
    Happy Thanksgiving!

  93. It looks great! You did an awesome job making the garland. I've seen that picture in the PB magazine and loved it too. Too bad I don't have columns on my house! Thanks for sharing!!

  94. Yes, I too am love that PB house! Great job on duplicating the greenery. Think I may try it too.
    Hope you wrist heals quickly

  95. So sorry to hear of your accident, Susan, and hope it heals very soon. The porch looks great and shows what can be done by hunting around a little. I saw a PB brochure for the first time recently, which friends brought back from Chicago. The goods looked great but seemed a little expensive! I've also just read your Thanksgiving tablescape post from last year, which is fabulous! I'm looking forward to seeing your 6 Dec. spread!

  96. Thank you for sharing your beautiful garland – I have one post near my front door and the second one a ways away at the end of the porch roof. I've always wanted to do something special on the posts – this could be the perfect idea! Take care of yourself and heal. I'm so sorry you were injured on the catfood can. I would have called for paramedics if I had been home alone, too.

    ~Adrienne~

  97. The Shanty Girl says

    I am so sorry for your injury and glad that you are going to be ok. I am very inspired by your blog and wanted to thank you for the giveaways and all the link party's that you host. I love your front porch and am inspired by your work.
    Sherry

  98. ♥ Sonny ♥ says

    wow– beautiful and just what I needed to see to inspire me to work on my own column decor…

    as always, thank you Susan for hosting this party and giving us a place to show off our latest creations.. I appreciate it so much..

    Sonny

  99. Mel's Cabin says

    What a delight you are with all your posts and pics! I hope you find mine just as inpiring to view.
    Mel's Cabin

  100. Trisha @ The Sweet Survival says

    Gorgeous! I love that garland from Pottery Barn! You did a beautiful job!

  101. AshTreeCottage says

    Ouch Susan!!! I cut myself between my index finger and my second finger once. I was young, foolishly used my boy friend's buck knife for hunting to cut some quarter round to install on a shelf. Knife slipped and cut me between the fingers. I thought I would pass out. I taped the two fingers together, the bleeding stopped and I never needed stitches. It's a wonder my then boyfriend ~ now husband of 21 years wanted to marry such a silly decorating girl! Take care and love your porch!!

    Love,
    Susan and Bentley
    xxoo

  102. Hillcrest Acres says

    Your front porch looks stunning!!! And what a savings over Pottery Barn's version. Well done!!!!!

  103. What a coup…garland WITH lights…it just WORKS! franki

  104. Dawn-Hydrangea Home says

    Your porch looks gorgeous Susan! Amazing job!

  105. Sherri Cassara says

    First of all that is a story I can so relate to with the lid cutting you – I did the same thing kind of with a knife and getting the pit out of an avocado – almost cut my finger off – not fun! I feel your pain on that!!! Secondly, I LOVE Dave Ramsey!!!!! I just started listening to him this year when he came on the radio out in CA in the morning (never heard of him before) and he has changed my life! I laughed as I read your process you went through to get your garland because since we went to see one of Dave Ramsey's financial people I am no longer buying like I used to – can't for one and won't now that I have been enlightened! Your house is gorgeous – no wonder you loved the PB cover – it is YOUR house – so pretty. Your garland turned out beautiful and I hope you will post a photo when you are done tweaking it as your wrist heals and you finish up planting the empty pots. A beautiful post and I know how much work went into putting that together even without the cut! xo Sheri

  106. Your version of the PB inspiration garland is very, very pretty and a lot more thrifty! Love that it is lit. I'm sure your porch will look even much more spectacular when finished. 🙂
    ~ Sue

  107. Isn't that the best feeling to take something you have been dreaming about and recreate it for so much less? Your porch looks gorgeous!
    Vanessa

  108. Life in Rehab says

    Susan, I am totally blown away by that porch! You did a fabulous job, it's just stunning. I can't wait for the tutorial!

    Thanks as always for hosting. I get some excellent ideas from my fellow party goers.

  109. Oh my goodness! You did a beautiful job recreating that garland! Absolutely fantastic! Thanks so much for sharing.
    jody

  110. Jellybean Junkyard says

    I hope it all turns out okay! Sounds like stiches to me!!! GOOD LUCK! YOUr front porch is AMAZING!

  111. Elizabeth and Gary says

    HI Susan,
    On my you poor dear! My daughter was 12 at the time and she was opening a can of dog food and used her thumb to lift the lid and yep, she sliced the tip of her thumb almost completely off…So I know how you feel. You were quite the trooper to go ahead and decorate your front porch, by the way it looks beautiful..
    I linked up with you today…
    Have a very Happy and blessed Thanksgiving!
    Big hugs, Elizabeth

  112. Simone @ Doberman's by the Sea says

    Thanks for hosting! Great ideas everywhere I look.

  113. Glenda/MidSouth says

    Beautiful – your really did good. I cringed when read about your accident. 🙁

  114. The garland and house look great as does your new blog banner.
    Pam @ BeColorful

  115. Cassie {Hi Sugarplum!} says

    That is gorgeous!!! Better than PB! I need a trip to Lowes!

    thanks for the party…and love your new header!

  116. I'm sorry this happened to you with the cat food lid! I can tell you that a few years ago a friend of mine was pushing down on the trash to fit more in and there was a cat food lid sticking up and it cut her wrist very badly! It happened in her garage and she said the blood was on the walls. She is a nurse at a local hospital and wrapped herself up and drove…which she should not have done. Ever since then I tell everyone to be so careful with lids…they are razor sharp! She also said she was questioned at the ER about her state of mind and was she depressed. I guess they weren't sure of her story. Luckily the staff in the department of that same hospital vouched for her. It's good that you posted this here as a reminder to people about these lids. Very dangerous!

  117. Was interested in the blue moon facts as I had a niece born during a blue moon and it was standing room only in the maternity ward! The explanation for the overflow was that it was a blue moon. Don't know if that happens every full moon–seems logical–or if it is a myth. Need a little more research.
    Karen Cook

  118. Kathy @ Creative Home Expressions says

    By jove, I think you've done it, Susan! That looks fabulous! That picture is one of my favorites, too, but at least your house looks similar so you can recreate it. My house looks nothing like that, so I just do my own thing. Sometimes I just frame the front door with a pre-lit garland that I have. I'm hoping I get at least one really nice day Thanksgiving weekend so I can do a little something outside.

  119. I love your garlands and also the front of your house. How grand! My house lacks columns as well as a porch, so I just hang a wreath on the door! Hope you heal without problems!

  120. alyssha lynn says

    Oh My – I hope you are feeling better today! Your entry looks GORGEOUS (as always) and the only problem with the party is that if I keep bloghopping all over I will never finish the rest of the chairs!!! Thanks for hosting!

  121. gail myrepurposedlife.net says

    wow! simply beautiful! love the price tag.
    great job,
    happy Thanksgiving!
    gail
    ps thanks for hosting!

  122. Your garland looks fantastic. Thanks for posting. Makes me want to get out my Pottery Barn catalog and see what I can create.

  123. LOOKS GORGEOUS!!!!

  124. Thanks so much for the thirfty garland idea. I don't have any columns on my home, but I just might have to get some. Just kidding. I know I can find a place for something so awesome.

  125. thedomesticfringe says

    Oh, my goodness!!! You're garland is fabulous! It looks just like the PB stuff. Awesome for you!

    -FringeGirl

  126. SALTBOX TREASURES says

    Your entrance is just gorgeous! Love PB too, but it is spendy! Thanks for sharing your DIY and thanks for the wonderful blog party!
    ~ Julie

  127. I have that same photo stashed in my home decor idea's book. Looking fwd to your post about how to put the galand together.

    Hope your wrist is healing and that you don't need stitches. But the medics are there to help you out (we pay for them with the taxes) so don't feel bad about calling them.

  128. Wow! What a beautiful, useful post!

  129. Laura Wilkerson says

    You know Susan than darn Pottery Barn catalog will get you every time! I do the same thing….dream, dream, dream and than dang Dave Ramsey sits on my left shoulder and whispers in my ear "Don't do it! Don't do it!" all the time! I do love him though! Anyway, beautiful job with the garland and I sure hope you heal up quick!
    Happy Holidays! 🙂

  130. Cass @ That Old House says

    Hi Susan! I can't believe you managed to TYPE with that wound — now that is blogging dedication. And you were smart to call for help –you could have been in big trouble if you'd blacked out.

    LOVE the garland. And I'm thinking, hey we could do that on our columns, and then I remembered we have 8 porch columns so —- maybe not! Unless I win the lottery!

    thanks for MM!
    Cass

  131. Please don't do that "can-thing" again. You are much too important to all of out here in blogland Your porch looks just beautiful — much nicer than PB because yours has lights! I'm hoping to get my table all set for Thanksgiving first thing tomorrow, so I can link to your party. I hope it will still be running.
    CAS

  132. Well done. It's the perfect clone.

  133. Yikes Susan!! I'll certainly heed your advice concerning pull top lids! Glad you called 911 because you really could bleed to death! I'm so glad you're ok and I've got my fingers crossed that you won't need stitches.
    The PB house is sooo perfectly old fashioned Christmas. Love it too! And your house will look equally good when you're finished I'm sure *winks* My Goodwill has all their X-mas stuff at half price and they had quite a few of those lighted garlands (Maybe yours does too?) just a thought. I'm going to give them a try. Thanks for all the wonderful inspiration! Oh by the way it's snowing here in the Pacific Northwest! Vanna

  134. Susan, I hope your wound is okay today. Last time I slit my wrist ….. accidentally of course it did warrant a few stitches plus a Tetanus shot. Hope you got off easier than I did.

    Though frugal, your entrance looks absolutely wonderful!!!!! Hugs -Brenda-

  135. ☞ ⒶⓃⓃⒺ ☜ says

    Thanks for hosting another great party!!!

  136. Wonderful re-creation of this beautiful Pottery Barn holiday house! By using more affordable materials, and a little elbow-grease, you've shown we can get the "PB" look for a lot less. We CAN do it! 🙂

  137. I am so sorry about the gash. I am glad you did not pass out. The porch looks great. You did a fabulous job!

  138. What a beautiful garlard. Thank you for sharing it. I could send you the snow if you want. Karen

  139. Sixty-Fifth Avenue says

    So sorry to hear about your ouchie! But you did an amazing job on that garland!! Bravo! Dave Ramsey would be proud of you.

    Londen

  140. First Susan, I wanted to say that I hope your wrist heals quickly and that you do not need stitches.
    Secondly, how beautiful your colums look, all decked out for Christmas. The night time shots were lovely especially the moon. Must check that out on yahoo.
    Best of luck for tomorrow!!

  141. Shugee @ Blue Heron Cottage says

    Susan,
    I was so sorry to hear you got cut and so badly and that you were alone when it happened. You are one of the kindest ladies and when I read you got hurt I wanted to just write you and tell you I hope you heal quickly with no complications and that I am thinking of you.
    Also, you did a beautiful, beautiful job with your garlands! I too loved that PB photo last year, especially with the wreaths on the gates, the whole front of the house was lovely, wasn't it?
    Your garland looks great with your red doors and your beautiful entrance!
    Hugs,
    Kim

  142. Hi Susan,

    I hope your wrist feels better soon…ouch! Your porch looks absolutely stunning. I love the way it looks lit up at night….so pretty! You did a fantastic job! Thanks so much for sharing. XO ~Liz

    P.S. I also wanted to thank you for sharing about my kitchen. Big Smile! =)

  143. FABBY'S LIVING says

    OH Susan! I'm so very glad you're ok after your accident, it's happened to me with cans too and it's awful! You were smart to call 911, I hope you went to your doctor anyway to be sure!
    Your por is totally amazing!!! Just terrific! And how you did it for less than half! I had a house with a porch like it 19 yrs. ago now I live in a big enough pent house apartment that I love to, so I just fix the door of it and the foyee and of course I deck the rest of it…I'm almost finished!
    Happy Thanksgiving.
    XOXOXO
    FABBY

  144. Blogging by Pictures says

    i added your link button to the bottom of my blog!

    bloggingbypictures.blogspot.com

  145. I hope you feel better soon. I love your garland–so pretty. I just want to add that I saw a 9 ft. lighted garland for $19.99 at Costco today.

  146. That is fabulous! Who in their right mind would pay that much for garland, that isn't even lit!!! Thanks for sharing. I only wish I had columns on our house, but I might use this idea inside instead.

    Brittany
    http://www.prettyhandygirl.com

    P.s. I like your new blog look!

  147. Sue (Someone's Mom) says

    I'm a bit late with my comment, but better late than never! Just reading about your accident creeped me out! I slice my finger once on the lid of a green bean can…the only stitches I've ever had that weren't surgical. Your wrist must have scared you to death.

    I love what you did with the garland. I really enjoy a bargain, particularly when it turns out looking just as pretty as the inspiration photo! Nicely done!

  148. I am a huge Dave Ramsey fan too! He must be omnipresent because he talks to me in my head also! 🙂
    Beautiful tutorial on the garland. Thanks for hosting MM!

  149. I love the way your porch looks when finished…its just beautiful! I have a porch similar with big columns in the front and was wondering how you attached the garland to the columns to make them stay all season?

  150. Thank you so much for this hack! I purchased the Pottery Barn stuff last Christmas and when I went to take it down in January the colors on the ornaments started to flake off, which was terribly upsetting. I was told I could return it all or reorder it this coming Christmas. Of course now I will be returning it and just making my own!

    • Wow, as much as it costs, that definitely should not have happened. I would take them up on returning it, for sure. I didn’t have any problems with flaking and I don’t store my garland in the best of locations. It’s up under the eves of the attic where it goes through extreme temperature changes. I should find a better place to store it. Despite all that, the ornaments have never flaked and I’ve used the garland for two season now. Hope to use it again this year.

  151. Barb Hudson (Yankoski) says

    Hi Susan. Cheers from the west coast of Canada. First, hope the wrist is OK. Ouch. Second, loved the story and pics and your porch outshines the PB one, hands down with how it looks and how you achieved it for a lot less $. For years a local plant nursery gave “Members” deals on their purchases – different deal each month of the year – offering 10 – 45% off your purchase at the time of sale or you could accumulate the savings on a punch card. I choose to accumulate. Then in December they sold “live garlands” and I used my punch card for that. Last year – no live garland!! I looked around and the price of “fake” was nasty. Now back to your story – I loved your use of the word obsessive because my hubby has nicknamed me Lana which is Anal spelled backwards!!! I want what I want and I want it done right. Sound familiar?? So I basically did what you did and no one was the wiser. I live in a inner city townhouse complex and the neighbors all oooo’d and aww’d at how good the porch looked and I can, in a few weeks, pull all that out of storage and do it again. Loved your beautiful porch and the tutorial. Love your blog and you too.

    • Barb, you and I would get along just fine! 🙂 I love the nickname your hubby gave you…too funny! Yup, if I can get it exactly the way I want it to look, I’d rather doing something else entirely. You get a vision in your head and nothing else will do! 🙂

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