Revamp Your Home Without Breaking the Bank
Decorating your home doesn't have to break the bank. With a bit of creativity and smart shopping, you can refresh your space without overspending. Here are some innovative ideas to help you redecorate on a budget.
DIY Artwork
Create your own artwork to add a personal touch to your home. You don't have to be the next Picasso or Rembrandt to create something beautiful. Adding something you handmade to your space brings life into the design. Here are a few ideas to get your creative juices flowing:
Canvas Art
Buy a blank canvas (or repurpose an old one) and some acrylic paints. Use simple techniques like abstract splatter or geometric patterns to create unique pieces. Stencils are also a great way to add shapes and designs to the piece. You can add details with paint markers to further enhance your artwork.
Framed Fabric
Purchase remnants of beautiful fabrics and frame them for an instant wall upgrade. Or, if you have an old item of clothing or blanket stuffed in the back of a closet, this is a great way to repurpose it. You can also layer different fabrics for a dimensional look and additional interest.
Photo Collage
Print your favorite photos and arrange them in a collage on the wall. Use different frame styles for added interest. These images can be a mix of family and friends or copyright-free artwork from the Art Institute of Chicago or the National Gallery of Art. To further enhance your collage, use photo filters before printing and a decoupage glue to create brush strokes before hanging the pictures.
Thrift Store Finds
Decorative Pieces
Vases, picture frames, and ceramic figures can often be found for a fraction of the original price. Decide on a color scheme and style you are looking for before heading out. This will help keep you from spending money on items that won't work in the space you are creating. Of course, if you find that absolutely amazing and unique find, an exception can be made.
Furniture
Old furniture can look brand new with sanding and a fresh coat of paint. The same can be said for newer pieces, as they can be made to look vintage or antique. Many DIY videos walk you through the entire process and help you decide how big of a project you are willing and able to take on.
Vintage Accessories
Add character to your home with unique vintage finds that tell a story. Sometimes, just a bit of elbow grease is all that is needed to bring something back to life. Don't limit an item to be used for its original intended purpose. A vase can become a lamp, or a wooden bowling pin can be used to prop open a door.
Rearrange and Repurpose
Rearrange Furniture
Changing the layout of a room can give it an entirely new feel. Experiment with different arrangements until you find one that works. Get creative. The great thing about moving furniture around is that it isn't permanent. Try small swap-outs; trade that accent chair in the bedroom for the one in the living room.
Repurpose Items
Turn an old ladder into a bookshelf, or use mason jars as stylish storage containers. Look around your home for items that can be given a new purpose. An underutilized makeup brush holder can be a cute pen holder on a desk or entry table, or an old pickle jar can be a beautiful centerpiece filled with stones and greenery, which brings us to the next topic.
Nature’s Decor
Natural Elements
Use branches, stones, or seashells as decorative elements. Arrange them in vases or bowls for a minimalist look. Just remember to clean found items so as not to bring unwanted critters or smells into the home.
Houseplants
Plants add life and color to any room. Start with easy-to-care-for varieties like succulents or peace lilies. Plants have been shown to lower stress just by looking at them. They also provide oxygen and help clean the air from impurities. If you have pets, double check to ensure the plants aren't poisonous.
Transform with Pillow Covers
Versatility
Change pillow covers to match the seasons or your mood. Use bright, floral prints for spring and summer and warm, cozy colors and designs for fall and winter. Of course, these aren't rules set in stone. Florals can be used any time of year as can rich deep tones.
Affordability
Pillow covers are a less expensive alternative to new pillows. Whether you are looking to update your space or refresh your space more frequently, pillow covers are an excellent option.
Less Waste
Covers help reduce waste by repurposing something you already have. Unlike pillows, covers are usually machine washable for easy cleaning and maintenance, so you don't have to toss out the whole pillow.
Featured products: Left: Wills Pillow, Right: Barb Pillow
Decorating on a budget does require a bit of creativity and resourcefulness. However, you can refresh your home without spending a fortune by crafting your own art, exploring thrift stores, and more. Remember, the best decor reflects your personal style, so have fun with the process and make your space truly yours.
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1 comment
Great ideas, special when you are on a budget. Thank for that.