Regardless of the economy, once in awhile I must have some change in my home! I've found that a little money can go a long way when inspired by resourceful creativity. There are lots of low-cost updates for your pad, and plenty of older items can be recycled with new style. Here are some ways to reduce, reuse, and redecorate on the cheap.
It's amazing how a coat of spray paint gives new life to old stuff! It's available in a huge array of colors and finishes at your local craft or hardware store. Use it to make coordinating sets out of items found separately, like picture frames or baskets. A drab piece of furniture makes a statement when repainted a bold color (or two). Disassemble items as much as possible and paint pieces separately to ensure even coverage. For best results, use multiple thin coats of paint, and always work in a well-ventilated area.
My Pillow Pets
Stencils are another quick and easy way to upgrade. Use them on walls and furniture, spray paint them onto wood, metal or plastic, or use etching cream to stencil mirrors and glass. Try an initial or monogram stencil - so simple, yet it adds an elegant touch to almost anything! With a personalized touch, new items look custom-crafted and worn items take on the look of heirlooms.
You can make your own stencil with a computer: print your stencil design on heavy cardstock, lay it on a cutting mat (or layers of thick cardboard and/or newspaper), and carefully cut it out with a pointed utility knife. Some projects may require a durable plastic stencil; make one by tracing your design onto a piece of discarded plastic packaging.
The easiest stencil of all is sassy stripes, simple to do with painter's tape and two or more colors of paint. Make it "pop" with a high-contrast combo, or use different shades in the same color family for a more understated look. Be sure to let each coat dry thoroughly before applying tape.
Old calendars are treasure troves of exquisite art and photography! Make yourself an elegant "print collection" by putting your favorite pages in matching frames from a discount store or secondhand shop and displaying them as a group. If you don't have any old calendars around, many non-profits offer calendars packed with stunning photography that they'll be happy to send you for a nominal donation. Each time you enjoy the pictures, you'll feel good about helping to preserve something you care about!
Worn-out clothing can be repurposed to decorate your home. That stained-but-beautiful sequined top that you can't bear to throw away? Make it into a pillow cover! You can cover pillows you already have, or buy inexpensive pillow forms at the craft store. Old wool sweaters can be felted in a dryer on high heat and cut into no-sew coasters and mats. If you knit or crochet, tear used T-shirts into strips to make soft, cozy area rugs. Or use colorful plastic bags for water-friendly results you can wash with a hose - perfect for the porch or mudroom!
Scope out tag sales, flea markets and your local secondhand/thrift store for furniture and decorative items like pottery, lamps, candleholders, baskets, and framed art (use as is or get creative - see above). You may even find items made of materials that are now restricted, like precious woods and ivory! Even if it's not a long-lost masterpiece, your home will be enhanced by the addition of handmade objects. Sanitize glass and ceramics by washing in soapy water with a bit of bleach. Be wary of unwashable fabric items, especially if you have allergies or pets.
For stylish storage, ask your local liquor mart about used wine boxes. Many are adorned on the sides with picturesque landscapes or colorful, stylish designs. Fold the top flaps down to the inside and line boxes up on a shelf to organize clutter. (You can even label them with stencils or computer-printed signs, i.e. "Gloves & Hats" or "Seth's Toys".)
Plants add vibrance to your décor, but they're not just nice to look at - they also replace carbon dioxide with fresh oxygen for your breathing pleasure. Add to your collection by taking cuttings from your houseplants. Clip off a healthy branch or shoot, place it in a glass of water, and put it in a sunny window for about a week, adding more water as needed until roots sprout. Put some small rocks or gravel in the bottom of a pot and fill the rest of the way with dirt. Gently plant the clipping in the dirt, taking care not to break off any delicate roots, and water thoroughly. For variety, swap with green-thumbed friends!
You can easily update your lighting for festive occasions by replacing a few white light bulbs with colored ones. Tealights are less expensive and messy than votives, and can be burned in most any open glass vessel. For a cozy glow, lay a string of white Christmas lights on a shelf of your favorite crystal, glass or metal items and watch them sparkle.
Finally, check your chi! Scope out your local library for a basic Feng Shui primer or read about it online. Applying some basic principles makes any space more inviting. You may find that simple, subtle changes "open up" spaces and give your home a feeling of greater comfort and harmony.
Decorating on a Budget - Reduce, Reuse, and Redecorate on the Cheap
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