Home decorating on a budget can be a challenge, but it can also be very rewarding. It requires creativity and planning, but can be even more rewarding than just purchasing anything you want, regardless of price. If you follow these tips, you can have a home that looks like a page from your favorite decorator magazine, at a fraction of the price.
Create a scrapbook of ideas from decorator magazines
Magazines can be a great source of inspiration. Looking through decorator magazines and creating a scrapbook of magazine clippings, can be a great way to determine the type of look that you want for your home. You can also reference the scrapbook when you are shopping for home decor, to make sure that you are sticking to your theme.
Make visits to furniture stores and showrooms
Visiting furniture stores gives you an opportunity to determine the styles of furniture that you like, and that meets the design vision that you have. It also gives you an opportunity to see the latest styles and patterns. You can make notes about colors and fabrics that you like. Best of all, there is no obligation to purchase right then, as there are many other people looking, just like you.
Update the room with color
One of the easiest and least expensive ways to create a dramatic impact in the look of your home is to add color. This can be done by painting the walls or changing the color of the curtains. When changing the colors in your home, it is important to be mindful of the moods that are created by color. For example, if you want your bedroom to be peaceful and relaxing, colors like light blue or light sea foam green can create a tranquil, relaxing mood.
Shop at second-hand stores
Second-hand stores can be a great way to get furniture at bargain prices. Classified ads in your local news paper can also be a great way of taking someone else’s trash and making it your treasure. There is no reason to be concerned if the furniture is not in pristine condition, as many dings and scratches can be easily covered with a coat of paint. Slip covers can also bring new life to the look of old couches or chairs.
Create your own artwork
Creating your own original art work is a great way to save money, and create the right artwork for the mood and theme of your room. A nice frame makes any piece of art look classy. The artwork does not have to be an oil painting of the Last Supper; it can be as simple as making a collage of leaves that have started to change colors. Get inspiration by looking through art books at your local bookstore or library. You could take some art classes, like photography, painting, or drawing, at your local community college. You could even purchase a book or calendar of photographs or artwork and frame them.
Shop for accessories at discount stores
Discount stores can save you a lot of money on accessories. You will be able find treasures like candles, pottery, knick knacks, and so on for very little money, that can provide the finishing touches for the look of your room.
Be patient
Take your time and shop during sales, to ensure that you get the biggest bang for your buck. Decorating your home should be enjoyable, not a chore. There is no hurry, you can’t expect your masterpiece to be completed in a single day.
