Candy-Cup Holiday Lights

Spanish colonists gave tin to Mexicans, who over the years perfected the art of soldering and painting bright ornaments from the material. The Mexicans, in turn, gave us the idea of evoking that cheerful, sparkling look with something as simple as foil candy cups on pink mini lights, poinsettias made from metal sheets, and a tart-tin sconce. Decorating a mantel in these happy reds and pinks anchors a room -- and serves as an ample stand-in if your space (or holiday travel plans) doesn't allow for a large trimmed tree. Never leave the lights unattended when they're switched on.