Interiors: Go the extra mile

WASHINGTON - The excitement of the holidays is in the air! Our homes should reflect the holiday joyfulness, even in the small details. Let's explore some ideas.

Yes, we all have our favorite decorations that we put out every year, but how about adding some new items? During this rich holiday season, food, of course, is the main event, but don't forget the supporting cast. Personalized napkins can add to the cheer at a very low cost. Print your name and a holiday message on soft paper napkins that come in a variety of colors. Check online by searching "holiday guest decor." Most companies sell them for about $40 per 100 napkins.

Personalized Christmas kitchen towels are great decorations that can be used year after year. If you set them out as display and use your old kitchen towels for the grunt work, the fancy ones will help add to the holiday cheer in the kitchen.

Consider buying picture frames that depict the theme of the season. Sure, they can be used only one month out of the year, but then again, when else can you display those precious holiday pictures? Frames that house 4-inch-by-6-inch pictures can be displayed on end tables, mantles, bookcases, shelves or countertops. It doesn't take much effort, and you add extra cheer.

Holidays are truly family-oriented, so why not make your own personalized decorations or gifts? The choices and ideas are countless. Just go to any craft store and you will surely find something that strikes your creative fancy. And the beauty of it all is that the craft can be as simple as making a clay pot look like Rudolph or as complicated as making a needlepoint pillow. Whatever you create, the finished product will be something uniquely personalized.

When you get those invitations to holiday get-togethers, any of the above ideas can serve as great gifts to offer your host or hostess. And you will be remembered fondly as the guest who brought something personal instead of the traditional bottle of wine.