Home Decorating Tips for Budget-Minded Folks

When I first got married, I was not terribly concerned with my home décor. However, as the years have passed, I began to take pride in a neat and attractive place to live, and have had enough with dorm living. When I decided to give my home a makeover, I didn't think I could afford to do anything worthwhile, but I was wrong. Here are some great decorating tips and ideas that don't have to put you in the poor house, yet make all the difference.

Buy a can of paint.

For less than the price of a fancy throw pillow, you can give a room a whole new look. Choose light and airy colors to make a room feel larger, or warmer shades for a cozy feel. And don't try to match your furniture exactly, it will look strange. Check out the paint colors with Behr's Color Smart interactive paint preview at : http://www.behr.com/behrx/workbook/

Of course, if you aren't looking for a specific color, ask the person behind the paint counter for any cans that have been mixed and not bought. Someone else's sage green mistake might look wonderful on your walls, and will come at a steep discount to you!

Behold the power of the slipcover.

Until you can purchase a new living room set, consider in investing in a slipcover for your sofa. Relatively cheap, these covers come in all colors, styles, materials, and are usually machine washable. Surefit.net. makes slipcovers for sofas, loveseats, recliners, and even dining chairs. You can also order a fabric sample to see if it will work with your décor. A great choice for families with kids (or messy pets, or messy spouses) is the solid color cotton duck slipcovers ($59.99). Available in many colors, they are washable, and available in different sizes for your furniture. Accessorize with some throw pillows, and you have a completely different look!

Get crafty.

Even if you have never used a sewing machine, chances are you can hand-stitch. And if you can, you can create your own throw pillows for your newly slip covered sofa. For less than $10, you can purchase material, stuffing, and thread for at least 2 pillows. Shop the clearance fabrics at your local crafting stores for great deals, and get sewing! You can also add fringe, buttons, etc. And if you can use a sewing machine, chances are you know the savings found in producing your own curtains. And if you don't, then it's about time you learn!

Hit the flea markets and garage sales.

You can imagine the savings at a flea market when it comes to shopping for your home. Furniture, knickknacks, curtains, you name it. The best thing is, you can barter for a better price! And don't forget pictures for your walls. Even if you don't like the print, check out the frame on that big velvet Elvis. You can dismantle it, repaint it, and put in a nice poster or print of your choice.

Check out unfinished furniture stores and used furniture places.

You know the ones. The previously owned office and condo used furniture. You can find a great deal on dining room sets and office furniture. And if you can stain, you would do well checking out an unfinished furniture place. Brand new, wood built dining sets, chairs, and tables at unheard of prices. Just waiting for the back of your pick-up truck.

Get thyself to thine Wal-Mart.

Or K-Mart. While I assume you shop there anyway, since you are so budget-conscious, if you haven't seen what they have to offer, you better get off your behind today! When it comes to things like rugs, blinds, bedroom and bathroom décor, your local Mart is a great place to find a great deal everyday. And after Christmas and early spring clearance is the best time to buy. I recently found an $80 dollar comforter set for $30! That is savings my friend, real savings. So get over the corporate suck that is Wal-Mart, ignore the door greeter, and head straight for the home and garden department. That is, if you can resist the price of an economy sized bag of Doritos at 2 for $5 today...

The one thing I am learning in my journey of redecorating is that I need patience. Of course I want to do this all at once, but I have to stick to a budget, and my budget is spread out over a longer period of time. But regardless, I can still find some great deals out there, and if I use a little muscle and brain power, I am practically guaranteed a beautiful and unique home I will be proud of. Follow these tips, and you will be too.