5 Cheap Home Decorating Ideas

Whether decorating a first home, or altering the appearance and character of an already existing home, many people hope to do so with as much imagination and with as little monetary investment as possible. Some may need to economize out of necessity, while others just enjoy the challenge of decorating creatively without breaking the budget. In addition, of course, there are those who are concerned about the environmental impact over-consumerism has on our planet and try to decorate with that in mind.

Re-Decorating

Sometimes a room's appearance - and personality - can be changed by simply moving the existing furniture around and by possibly removing an item or two. By locating furniture in such a way as to highlight a particular function, such as a fireplace or a collection of art, the room can acquire an entirely new look. Removing small items, such as vases or baskets, and replacing them with items from other rooms, can also create a subtle new look. 

In homes with no fireplace, look for a picture or bay window to highlight and enhance the atmosphere in the room. French doors also make an excellent focal point. Anything dramatic within the room can be used to advantage simply by rearranging the furniture, and it costs you nothing. 

Paint

Painting is an inexpensive way to create an entirely new atmosphere in any room. Lighter colors can make a room seem larger; darker colors can make a room seem smaller while creating a more intimate and personal tone. Contrasting colors on opposite walls can create a bold and interesting impression. Floors and ceilings can also be painted. Painting a floor can create a dramatic and beautiful transformation and can be an economic alternative to expensive floor refinishing or replacement. 

Window Treatments

Window coverings are also an easy way to change the look of a room without putting a large dent in the budget. Although they are inexpensive, mini blinds and roller shades do little to improve the look of a room. However, roman blinds are simple to sew and can be made to coordinate with any fabric. They are also cost effective and can add even more drama, depending on how you fasten them up. Use extra fabric for throw pillows, ottoman covers and more.

You can simply sew a fabric flap with a button hole to the back and a dramatic button on the front. Securing this way, leaves a gentle draping effect in the center. Three such flaps can make smaller scallops in the shape of the curtain. If you already have drapes on your windows, consider making coordinating tiebacks to match your throw pillows or simply add some bling to existing tiebacks with decorative buttons. 

Wall Art

Pictures and other wall art can be purchased relatively inexpensively from discount retailers such as Wal-Mart and K-Mart. Just because you bought the frame at Wal-Mart, doesn’t mean you need to keep the picture in it. Find something you like better and reframe it inside the cheap decorative frame.

Thrift stores often have many of the same pictures but at even less cost. Garage and yard sales are also good places to look for pictures and picture frames, as well as other types of wall hangings. In addition, it is always possible the shopper will find something of real value at a fraction of its original cost! 

New Furniture

Furniture is the largest and often the most costly expense in a home decorating project. Thrift stores, garage sales, and even relatives' attics often have sofas, chairs, and other items that are still fully functional.  Put out the word to friend and family when you are looking for furniture and watch Freecycle posts closely. Soon you’ll get just what you were looking for.

A s long as they are comfortable and fit the style the decorator is looking for, any cosmetic flaws, such as stains or wear, can be hidden by slipcovers or, in some cases, by recovering or refinishing. By giving old furniture new life, the decorator can not only save money but also reduce the impact on our environment by saving still useful items from the landfills.