New looks for Christmas trees

The centerpiece of many homes in December, the Christmas tree is often decorated with sentimental ornaments and a style beloved by each family.

If you want to mix it up a bit this year, try these tips from countryliving.com.

New colors: Try black and white, especially with ribbons. Also: ice blue and silver, pink bows and gold ornaments, white bulbs with brown extras like pine cones, or bulbs that make a rainbow of color.

Ornaments: Among the possibilities are spray-painted birdhouses, toy soldiers or nutcrackers, large glittering letters, or small flag garlands.

Materials: How about burlap for garlands, scrapbook tags, triangular flags made of burlap, or feathers.

Tree stands: Why do you have to get a conventional stand with a skirt? Try colorful vintage buckets for smaller trees or re-purpose objects. Use baskets or tree pots.

New places: Have a kitchen tree? Want to make one? Try decorating with cooking items from cookie cutters to flatware.

See Country Living’s 67 tree suggestions at: countryliving.com/christmas-ideas.