how 2 decorate for the 4th of july

from ehow here

How To Decorate For The Fourth Of July

1. Step 1
   
   Versatile Patriotic Patio

   USE RED OR BLUE AS AN ANCHORING COLOR IN SEVERAL ROOMS.
   
   I find red to be a very versatile color for decorating. In the winter it matches well with Christmas decorations. In the summer it makes a wonderful backdrop for the fourth of July. Even Thanksgiving orange can match many tones of red. Blue works well to create a peaceful bedroom, or a seascape bathroom theme.

2. Step 2

   PICK ACCESSORIES THAT ARE EITHER RED, WHITE, OR BLUE.
   
   Except for directly around the holiday you probably don't want flags flying in every room. So find more subtle ways to be patriotic in the home this summer. Candles, wall hangings, runners, and area rugs can all make a big difference in a room. Accessorize a room without creating a cluttered feel.

3. Step 3
   

   DRESS UP YOUR TABLE WITH 4TH OF JULY COLORS.
   
   Find blue glass chargers like the one pictured here from Spode China. Buy a red table runner and offset it with blue and white plates.

4. Step 4

   ADD A SET OF RED, WHITE, OR BLUE DECORATIVE CURTAINS
   
   Depending on the color palette of a room, choose one of the three colors to accent your already existing curtains. Simply add these on to the end of the rods. These can easily be removed later in the summer.

5. Step 5

   MIX AND MATCH SOLID COLORED ITEMS RATHER THAN BUYING RED, WHITE, AND BLUE.
   
   Generally speaking you will achieve a classier and more subtle look by mixing the red white and blue throughout the room. For example, buy red pillows and a white throw rather than a red, white, and blue throw.

6. Step 6
   

   AND ON INDEPENDENCE DAY. . .
   
   On the day itself, consider using even the food to create a patriotic color palette. Add a few tasteful flags around the home and you are ready to go. Decorating for the holiday slowly this way, helps you enjoy family and friends more when the holiday arrives.