Decorating A Michigan Farmhouse For Christmas

Today I’m showing a tour of a Michigan farmhouse decked out for Christmas. I don’t think it’s too early for holiday inspiration, is it?

Christine and Gabe Bridger wanted their city-dwelling kids, (Emelia, 9; Jenson, 7) to experience childhood in the countryside.

They found their farmhouse in Fennville, Michigan, which has a population of 1,398. The property boasts 3 scenic acres 140 miles from the city.

The Farmhouse:

The farmhouse was 100 years old and had only 400 square feet of living space. Also, it was in bad shape.

“Gabe and I agreed that we would keep the original structure at all costs,” says Christine. “We wanted the heart of the home to actually have a heart.”

The goal: maintaining the spirit of the existing space while adding 1,400 square feet to the structure.

The Farmhouse Living Room:

They decided to turn the original space into a living room.

Homemade Gift Wrapping:

A fun way to wrap presents is to use old plaid shirts. Cut them up and pull the loose threads to make fringe.

Sew the pieces together to make longer strips if necessary. Wrap the present in the fabric from the old shirt.

“I’ll throw on an ornament, candy cane, doily, or even an old brooch for flourish,” says Christine.

The Farmhouse Kitchen:

The kitchen has a custom island and open shelving that are made from old beams and ceiling rafters.

This simple swag pays tribute to the adjacent orchard.

A custom steel railing adds an industrial touch to the whitewashed wooden entry.

Turn a vintage sweater into decor by tracing a stocking template, then cutting and sewing it inside out. (The foldover should be sewn the opposite way.)

Using scraps, sew on a loop, then add a monogram using metal house letters.

The Farmhouse Bathroom:

The sconce in the bathroom was painted red to contrast with the dark walls. They added a Kohler trough sink that they found at a salvage store in Chicago.

The Kids’ Room:

The bunk room for the kids was outfitted with plaid flannel sheets and Pendleton blankets.

Michigan is the Mitten State. Christine sources vintage mittens year-round online and at flea markets.

Then she uses a large needle to pull yarn through the tops of the hand-warmers. (Secure with knots if needed.)

Below is the recipe if you’d like to make your own homemade Christmas ornaments:

Homemade Christmas Ornaments:

• 4 cups all-purpose flour
• 1 cup salt
• 1 and 1/2 cups of warm water

Combine the ingredients in a mixing bowl. Knead until the dough is firm and smooth.

Roll out dough and cut desired shapes (use a straw to poke a hole for hanging).

Bake at 300°F until dry, approximately 1 hour; cool completely.

The Family Gathered On The Porch Swing:

The Bridger family together at home.

{Photos and home details courtesy of Country Living}