|
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!
|
About
The Author
Maria
Palma is a writer, painter, jewelry
designer, interior decorator, and real
estate consultant based in San Diego,
California. She received her degree in
Psychology from California State
University, Chico, but realized that she
wanted to pursue her artistic passions.
She has two websites: Salon de Maria
(http://www.salondemaria.info), which
showcases her art, and Home Solutions (http://www.homesolutionssandiego.com),
a resource for real estate and home
decorating in the San Diego area. |
|
|
