Hearth-warming Style

* For a three-dimensional display idea, hang a hooked rug over the fireplace instead of a piece of framed art.

* Add a burst of colorful character to a white mantel with a pair of small rugs or appliquéd place mats.

* Arrange a pair of dining chairs by the hearth and add intricately patterned chair pads for more graphic appeal.

Material Mix

* Combine a variety of patterns—ticking, gingham, buffalo check, bowtie—in the same hues, such as navy and cream.

* Tack an antique child’s dress to the wall as an alternative to traditional art.

* A single homespun curtain pulled off to one side is the perfect window treatment for a simply decorated bedroom.

Retro Flavor

* Fold a vintage-look tablecloth lengthwise and drape it over one end of the table for a twist on traditional decorating.

* To complement the tablecloth, arrange retro napkins so they hang from hutch shelves or peek out of drawers.

* Go vertical with your quilt collection: Use a hutch door as a makeshift quilt rack and add a grapevine wreath for more texture.

Sooner or Ladder

* Take advantage of height in a room with a vaulted ceiling by using a tall antique ladder as a display spot for a rag quilt or a coverlet.

* To make a wall shelf look like a quilt rack, tack a hooked rug or a fabric wall hanging right underneath.

* Instead of hanging a curtain on a rod, thread twine through the rod pocket and tie the ends to eye hooks on either side of the window.

Hanging Around

* Display a grouping of antique children’s clothing on a painted peg rack; hang the garments on primitive wood hangers for more country charm.

* Try this old-fashioned twist on traditional pillowcases: Wrap homespun fabric around bed pillows and secure the ends with twine or strips of fabric.

Quilt While You’re Ahead

* Amp up the style of your sewing room with a bed quilt repurposed as wall art; use quilt clamps secured to the wall instead of tacks to avoid damaging the blanket.

* Stack a collection of folded quilts in a doorless cabinet to show off their beautiful colors and patterns.