By Maria Palma
Home 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!
-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. 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.
-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.
-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.
-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.
-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?
-Be Patient!
Take your time and shop during sales. Decorating should be fun.
Remember, Rome was not built in a day!