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Decorating on a budget is the ultimate adventure in decorating. It
requires a little bit of planning, creativity, and patience. If you
are like me, sometimes you wish you could be a genie and wiggle your
nose and **poof** it's done. However, that takes away from all the
fun! Follow these tips and you'll have a home that looks like a page
out of your favorite magazine!
Tip #1: Visit Furniture Showrooms
Make notes of styles of furniture you like. Also, take note of
colors and fabrics that create a "warm" feeling inside of you. By
visiting showrooms you can get an idea of the new trends and styles.
Tip #2: Browse Through Decorating Magazines
Magazines are a source of inspirational ideas. Create a scrapbook of
magazine clippings and refer to your book when shopping for your
home.
Tip #3: Shop Second-Hand Stores
One person's trash is another person's treasure can never be so
true. One place to look is the classifieds in your local newspaper.
I have found great deals on furniture in thrift stores and auctions.
Don't worry if an item is not in the best of shape. A coat of paint
will work wonders for some furniture. Slipcovers can update an old
couch or chair.
Tip #4: Color! Color! Color!
To create a dramatic, inexpensive change to your home, paint the
walls a new color or buy new curtains. Keep in mind the moods that
colors can create.
Tip #5: Create Your Own Art
For me, one of the best parts of decorating is creating my own
original works of art to hang on the walls. It could be as simple as
collecting leaves when they have turned colors and creating a picture
collage. A nice frame makes any work of art look classy. Take a
drawing, photography or painting class at your local community
college. Gain inspiration by browsing through art books at your
local library or bookstore. If you're into black and white photos,
but do not want to pay the high price for this type of art, buy a
book or calendar of your favorite photographer and frame the
pictures.
Tip #6: Shop Discount Stores
Thank God for discount stores! This place will save you a ton of
money on accessories. You will find little treasures such as candle
holders, candles, potpourri, and knick knacks for very little money.
Who will ever know?
Tip #7: Be Patient!
Take your time and shop during sales. Remember, Rome was not built
in a day!
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