Diligent readers of this blog, I failed you a bit. I skipped Easter, but thankfully only in the decor department. I still got to enjoy family, church, an Easter basket of goodies (you never are too old for that) and a classic dinner of ham and cheesy potatoes! 

Although never like to miss an opportunity to do something for a holiday, the proximity to St. Patrick's Day, a case of the flu and a wonderful vacation to Arizona proved to be too much to overcome.

The upside? I decided to do some first-ever Spring and garden-themed projects! Plus, I can save up some of my Easter goodies to share with you next year.

1. Framed Herb Art

Even though it snowed in Minnesota today, I keep telling myself real Spring is just around the corner. Last year, Chris and I planted our first ever gardens. I was excited about having fresh herbs to use in cooking and cocktails. I've always loved herb and vegetable art, so I thought I'd go looking for some free printables to start. I found this set of four on Pinterest. These are also a great option! (Click on the hyperlinks for the downloadable files).

I decided print them off in a 4x6 size. I picked up 4- $1 frames at the Dollar Tree to put them in, but you could also choose some frames you have at home for a more eclectic look. Project done at a cost of $4.

2. Framed Garden Art

To draw the theme together above the mantel, I also found a free printable to go with the garden theme. You can find it here. I used a gold frame I bought at Michael's on clearance last year. These frames work great for changing out seasonal decor.

3. Garden Tool Banner

As I was putting together this mantel, I noticed a home decor blogger that I follow on Instagram had made a really cute garden tools banner. She said she got the supplies at Michael's, so off I went with some inspiration. I had also snagged a plain linen banner as a part of Target's 90% off Easter clearance ($.50 down from $5!) that I knew would work for this. The garden tools came in a couple of colors, but I decided to go with the galvanized metal look. I bought two packages at $1.50 each.

First, I strung together the banner and then tied the metal garden pieces with some baker's twine to the banner string. I snipped the ends of the twine shorter, but you could also tie into bows if you like the look of the extra twine.

In approximately 10 minutes, I had my banner!

4. Dirt Cheap Accessories

The mantel needed a few more details to be complete. If you are a regular reader of this blog then you already know that I am a BIG fan of the Dollar Tree. I continue to be amazed what I can find for hosting parties and project supplies, and it's all a dollar or less. I also have had luck finding a lot of items in Target's Bullseye's Playground (items now range from $1-$5) or in Michael's dollar area (most items $1.50). For this project, I was able to find the following:

• Faux Succulents (Dollar Tree)

• Bird Cage (Michael's)

• Daisy Flower Bunch (Dollar Tree)

I also bought the vases for the flowers from Michael's. It was on sale for 40% off, plus I was able to use a 25% off all regular-priced and sale items coupon in addition. I was able to snag it for just around $6. It will definitely be something that can be reused! 

With these added treasures, plus some standard things that I already had around the house, I was able to create a garden-themed mantel to last through the Spring and early summer!