5 Practical Garden Decorating Tips with Gnomes

Written by Daisie Team

Published on 11 July 2023 5 min read

Decorating your garden can be a fun and rewarding process, and what could be more charming than adding a touch of whimsy with ceramic gnomes? These delightful figures not only brighten up your outdoor space, they also add an element of storytelling. Let's dive into some practical tips to help you select and position your gnomes, highlight them with lighting, change up the decor as per the season, and maintain them to ensure they continue to bring joy to your garden.

1. Select the Right Gnome

Just like every garden is unique, so is every gnome. Choosing the right gnome is the first step towards creating your magical gnome garden. Here are a few factors to consider:

Consider Size

Think about the scale of your garden. You don't want your gnome to be lost among the foliage, but you also don't want it to overpower your garden's beauty. If you have a small garden, go for mini ceramic gnomes. They can nestle among your plants without taking up much space. On the other hand, if you have a spacious garden, life-size ceramic gnomes can make a bold statement.

Evaluate Material

Ceramic gnomes are a popular choice because of their durability and classic look. They withstand the elements better than their plastic counterparts and have a charming, old-world feel to them. When checking out your options, ensure the gnome is made of high-quality ceramic. It should feel solid, not hollow, and the paint job should be vibrant and well-done.

Choose a Theme

A well-chosen theme can tie your garden decor together. You could go for traditional ceramic gnomes, sporting red caps and blue coats. Or, you could opt for something quirky like beach-themed gnomes, or even gnomes dressed as superheroes. Remember, the goal is to reflect your personal style and bring joy to your garden.

2. Position Gnomes Properly

Once you've chosen the perfect ceramic gnome, the next step is to find the ideal spot for it. Gnome placement can truly make or break the overall aesthetic of your garden. Here's what you need to remember:

Balance with Other Decor

You want your gnome to stand out, but not so much that it clashes with your other garden decor. Strike a balance. If you have a garden bench, you might place a ceramic gnome nearby, as if it's having a chat with visitors. If you have a bird bath, perhaps the gnome could be placed as if it's watching the birds. Remember, it's all about creating a scene that tells a story.

Coordinate with Plants

Plants can form a beautiful backdrop for your ceramic gnomes. If you have a rockery or a succulent garden, that could be an excellent spot for your gnome. Or, if you have a blooming flower bed, placing a gnome amidst the vibrant colors can create a charming scene. Be mindful of the plants' growth, though. You don't want your gnome getting lost in overgrown foliage!

3. Use Lighting to Highlight Gnomes

Now that you've found the perfect spot for your ceramic gnomes, it's time to shine a light on them — literally. The right lighting can turn your gnomes from daytime delights to nighttime stars. Here's how:

Solar Powered Lights

One of the easiest and most eco-friendly ways to highlight your ceramic gnomes is with solar-powered lights. Simply place these lights in a spot where they can soak up the sun during the day and watch how they bring your gnome to life at night. You could use a solar spotlight to highlight a solitary gnome or use solar fairy lights to create a whimsical atmosphere around a group of gnomes.

LED Spotlights

LED spotlights are another great option. They're energy-efficient and can really make your ceramic gnomes pop after dark. You can use a warm white light for a cozy glow, or go for a cool white light to create a moonlit effect. Remember, the goal is to create a magical, nighttime garden scene that your gnomes can rule over.

4. Seasonal Decorating

Just like you switch up your wardrobe with the seasons, your ceramic gnomes can also enjoy a little seasonal flair. The beauty of this is that you can constantly refresh the look of your garden and give your gnomes a fun, festive makeover.

Spring and Summer

During spring and summer, nature is in full bloom, and it's the perfect time to let your ceramic gnomes have a little fun in the sun. You could place them amongst the bright flowers, or have them holding tiny kites or balloons. This adds a playful touch to your garden and makes the most of the longer daylight hours.

Fall and Winter

As the leaves change color and the weather gets cooler, it's time to give your gnomes a cozy update. Dress them up in tiny scarves and hats, or place them next to mini pumpkins for a festive touch. Winter offers a beautiful snowy backdrop for your ceramic gnomes. Imagine them peeping out from a dusting of snow, their bright colors contrasting beautifully with the white landscape. With these seasonal changes, your garden can reflect the beauty of each season, and your gnomes will always be in style.

5. Maintaining Your Gnomes

Your ceramic gnomes are trusty companions that keep your garden lively year-round. But, just like any other outdoor decor, they need a little care to keep them looking their best. Let's look at some practical ways to keep your gnomes in tip-top shape.

Cleaning Tips

Over time, your ceramic gnomes might gather dust, dirt, or even bird droppings. A simple solution of mild dish soap and warm water works wonders for cleaning your gnomes. Use a soft brush or cloth to gently scrub them clean, and then let them air dry. Remember not to scrub too hard, as this could damage the paint on your gnomes.

Repair Advice

Despite our best efforts, accidents can happen, and your ceramic gnomes might get chipped or broken. But don't worry! With a bit of waterproof adhesive, you can easily fix small chips or cracks. For larger breaks, you might need to use a ceramic epoxy. Just be sure to follow the manufacturer's instructions to ensure a successful repair.

Storage Options

While ceramic gnomes are usually quite hardy, extremely harsh weather conditions could be damaging. If the forecast predicts a heavy storm or a particularly icy winter, it might be a good idea to bring your gnomes indoors. You can store them in a dry, cool place until the weather improves. A bonus to this is that it gives your gnomes a break from the elements, which can help preserve their colors and details for longer.

In conclusion, ceramic gnomes are a fun, whimsical addition to any garden. With the right care and a bit of creativity, you can create a gnome abode that's the envy of the neighborhood. So, are you ready to start your own gnome adventure?

If you're inspired by our garden decorating tips and want to create your own unique gnomes, check out Meghan Yarnell's workshop, 'Pottery Basics: Everything You Need To Know'. This workshop will teach you the fundamentals of pottery, allowing you to craft your very own gnomes and other decorative pieces to enhance your garden.