Transforming Thrift Store Finds into Winter Decor

Welcome to the blog today, Friends! I’m so happy you’ve decided to drop by and spend some time with me. I’m sharing a project that brought so much joy to my heart—a thrift store find transformed into a Winter Wonderland treasure.

I found this sweet deer at the thrift store about a year ago. Made of woven twigs, it had such a lovely, graceful silhouette that I couldn’t resist. Even though its lights didn’t work and wires poked out everywhere, I saw its potential. I knew with a little love, it could become something frosted and magical, ready to shine again.

I began by removing all the old wires—there were so many, and they were all different! The original lights were wired directly to the frame and had to be carefully cut away. Over the years, additional lights had been added, and they were tangled and intertwined with the frame, sticking out in every direction. It was quite the electrical mess!

It took a couple of hours to carefully remove all the old lights without damaging the delicate woven twig frame. It was tedious work, but I knew it was the first step in bringing this beautiful deer back to life.

Some of the pieces on the twig frame had come loose over time and were sticking out, so they needed to be gently rewoven. It was a bit like putting together a puzzle, finding where each piece fit and tucking it back into place.

It was so satisfying to watch the deer slowly come back to life, its lovely original outline taking shape again. With each little repair, it felt like the deer was regaining its charm, ready to shine in its Winter Wonderland transformation.

After some work the deer was looking pretty good and was ready for his new coat of sparkling lights.

I ordered this string of lights that I thought would work well and not be obvious when wound into the deer.

In this picture, you can see the gentle radiance of the string lights as they cast a warm, enchanting glow—like a sprinkle of starlight captured just for this moment. Once wound through the delicate frame of the deer, the wire seems to vanish, leaving only a soft cascade of twinkling lights that transform the piece into something truly ethereal.

It took a couple of meditative hours to weave the lights through the frame, starting at the deer’s elegant muzzle and working my way down its graceful silhouette. Each section received loving attention as I carefully guided the wire through the intricate curves and delicate details. Around the deer’s mouth, where the frame is most delicate, I moved with deliberate patience, savoring the process. Seeing the shimmering result made every careful twist and turn feel like pure magic coming to life.

When he was finished, the deer stood radiant, every curve of his frame sparkling as though he had been dusted with moonlight. The single string of lights was just enough to bring him to life, casting a magical glow that made the room feel wrapped in winter’s quiet enchantment.

This thrifted treasure, costing just $4.35, paired with $8 lights, became a dazzling addition to my Christmas decor for a mere $12.35. A little patience and creativity transformed these simple materials into a centerpiece brimming with charm and wonder.

For now, he graces an indoor winter display, his shimmering presence bringing warmth and joy to the room. He’s far too lovely to tuck away, and I find myself lingering a little longer, soaking in the magic he radiates. Saying goodbye will have to wait—his glow is simply irresistible.

This post is a little longer than usual, but I couldn’t resist sharing the first table setting of the New Year. It’s a simple yet elegant arrangement, perfectly complementing the gallery wall I’ve curated for the winter months. I’ll be giving you a closer look at that gallery next week—stay tuned! For now, let’s focus on this cozy winter table.

The table is dressed in a delicate Battenberg lace tablecloth and matching napkins, a timeless choice that exudes charm and refinement. In the first picture, you’ll catch a glimpse of the glowing deer in the background, lit by the grow lamps keeping my basil plants happy through the chilly season.

For the place settings, I’ve started with a gleaming silver Mikasa charger as the foundation. The dinner plate is Spode’s elegant “Chelsea Wicker” pattern, paired with a Franciscan “Simplicity” salad plate rimmed in silver for a soft touch of sophistication. To finish, a silver napkin ring cradles a linen and lace napkin, adorned with a fragrant sprig of rosemary. The rosemary is more than decoration—it’s a heartfelt nod to the year that’s passed and the many lives that touched ours.

The centerpiece is a cascading arrangement of greens harvested from the garden, interwoven with a few delicate white flowers. It’s held aloft in a crystal dish with a tall stem, creating a graceful display that adds height and airiness to the table. Complementing the centerpiece are cut crystal water and wine glasses by Galway in the radiant “Rathmore” pattern, their facets catching the light like drops of winter frost. For the flatware, I chose the understated elegance of International Silver’s “Melody” pattern.

As night falls, the glow of the deer’s lights adds a touch of enchantment to the scene. Paired with the indoor Winter tablescape, he shines like the embodiment of seasonal magic. Don’t you think he looks absolutely splendid? His sparkle brings warmth and wonder to the table, making the setting feel truly special.

Thank you so much for joining me for this thrifted transformation and Winter tablescape. Bringing this little treasure back to life and weaving him into our home decor has been such a joy, and I’m so glad I could share it with you. Until next time, happy thrifting and crafting, dear friends!

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