If you have a fireplace in your home, it's important to give some thought about how you'll decorate the mantel above it. A plain mantel can look somewhat unfinished, but shopping for the right home accessories to place atop it can tie it in well with the way that you've decorated the room. There are many different directions that you can take when it comes to choosing accessories for your mantel, and a wide range of online and in-person retailers will carry the things that you'll need. Here are some decorating ideas for a mantel.

1. Clock

One good home accessory to consider for your mantel is a clock. This is especially true if you don't have a clock anywhere else in the room. While people can always check their watches or cellphones to learn the time, having a clock offers many conveniences for those who aren't carrying either device at the time. Additionally, given the wealth of styles that are available, you'll have no trouble finding a clock that will suit the space. Whether you choose a rustic wooden one that complements your wooden furniture or you opt for a sleek metal clock that gives a modern vibe, a clock can help complete the look of your room.

2. Framed Quote

A lot of people put framed family photos on their mantels, and this can be a good way to display images of your loved ones. Another framed option is to find a framed quote that you like and place it on the mantel. Many home accessory stores have ample choices of quotes that reflect love, family, faith, and a variety of other topics. You'll typically find different design styles too. This ensures that it will be easy to find not only a quote that you like, but also one with a frame and mat that suit the room.

3. Artificial Flowers

Lots of home accessory stores have large selections of artificial flowers that appear to be authentic, especially from a distance. Some flowers in a vase on your mantel can add a splash of color to this part of the room. For above the mantel, artificial flowers are often a better choice than real flowers; if you use the fireplace a lot, the heat that rises from it can dry out any real plant, causing it to die prematurely — or require extra watering. Artificial flowers that suit your sense of style don't need any maintenance.

To learn more, visit a home accessories store near you.