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Getting your house decorated for the Fourth of July will get you ready for a weekend full of memorable events. Whether you’re having company or visiting elsewhere, the colors of the flag are a cheerful reminder of America’s independence that will have you upbeat during the entire month of July. Feeling uninspired? Try these quick and easy projects to get you started:

 

1. Light up your surroundings: Besides fireworks, there are other great ways to set the mood with light during Fourth of July gatherings. Citronella candles not only add to the ambiance of a deck or backyard party, but they’re also useful as insect repellents. To spruce up this special effect even more, use this idea from the queen of décor, Martha Stewart: Pick up red, white and blue glassine sheets from your local craft store, and using tape and glue, wrap your glass candle holders in patriotic designs. It’s a simple project, but one that is sure to impress when the flickering flame starts to reflect off all the colors. Check out more of Martha’s ideas at www.marthastewart.com.

 

2. Bloom a beautiful creation: While there are plenty of flowers to choose from during the month of July, why not stick with the July 4 theme and display red, white and blue blooms on all your tables and countertops? One inexpensive alternative is the carnation. You could dye white carnations all red and all blue, but try a tie-dyed look instead by cutting a white carnation stem lengthwise and placing one half in a glass of water with eight drops of red food coloring and the other half in a glass of water with eight drops of blue food coloring. After a few hours, pull the flower out so that some of the original white is still showing, and you’ll have yourself an instant centerpiece – not to mention a conversation starter – for your afternoon cookout. 

 

3. Bring the fireworks indoors: This Fourth of July decorating idea kills two birds with one stone by keeping kids entertained while providing you with some original artwork. All you need is some acrylic paint, a paintbrush, paper, a drinking straw and water. In a paper cup, dilute some paint with water to produce a runny consistency. With the paintbrush, let a few drops of paint fall onto the paper, then blow through the straw directly over each puddle and voilà – fireworks on paper. This project is also a great activity for a group of kids to do together, so you may want to wait until the guests arrive. More July 4 crafts and decorating ideas can be found at www.familyfun.go.com.

 

Your house may not have been built in 1776, but there’s no reason to skip the patriotic flair this Independence Day. Simple small touches of red, white and blue can add a burst of energy to your home and put everyone in the mood for holiday weekend festivities. Let your kids help create something colorful, or get your neighbors together to transform the entire block. There’s a lot to celebrate on Independence Day, so start getting in the mood – and getting some decorating ideas – today.