- Find Inspiration
Though you may not be able to afford items from magazines and home decorating shows, you can recreate their looks with more affordable elements. Watch decorating shows and flip through your magazines and catalogs to get an idea of how you want your room to look. Your local library is a great resource, too.
- Get Out the Paintbrush
Painting is the most affordable way to change the look of a room. Never be afraid to break away from neutral colors, because if you hate the results, you can always paint again. Bright, bold colors may suit your tastes or you may prefer something more subtle and soothing. Either way, take into account the size of the room. Dark colors can make a room appear smaller, so only use these if your master bedroom is large. For smaller rooms, use soft, lighter colors.
- Picture This
Pictures are a great way to add a splash of color without breaking the bank. Art books and coffee table books are excellent sources for pictures to frame.
You can also try taking some of your own. Macro, or very close-up, shots of flowers, water, pets, children, leaves, butterflies, clocks and more all make interesting wall art. There’s no need to stick to one style of frame, either. Get a variety of styles in the same color or coordinating colors to make those pieces really pop.
- Slip Into Something More Colorful
If you have a sofa or chairs in your master bedroom, odds are they could use a makeover. Furniture is expensive, though, so you don’t want to have to buy a new piece just because you’re tired of looking at a pattern or color. Try slipcovers instead to give those pieces a new look. In addition to being more affordable, slipcovers are also washable and easier to care for.
- Become a Bargain Hunter
The key to finding beautiful drapes, lines, art and furniture on a budget is to always keep your eyes peeled for bargains. Don’t pass up those yard sales; there may be a treasure trove of items there that suit your taste exactly. You may find that perfect chest of drawers with the dovetailer detailing at the joints you’ve been looking for. Check out the clearance aisles at your favorite stores. Many areas have Facebook “yard sale” pages, so be sure to take a look at those.
With just a few dollars and some elbow grease, you can make your home more attractive and appealing.
