Let's face it, economic conditions have affected us all. Our families are eating in more, spending less on entertainment, and putting off expensive purchases. Does that mean that you have to ignore your home décor? No, it doesn't. Sprucing up - even changing the entire look - of a room doesn't need to cost an arm and a leg. Here are some ideas to help you look at a decorating project with an eye on the budget!
1. Choose a theme.
Whether it's a family hobby or a favorite color, choosing a theme helps you focus. And, chances are, you already own plenty of stuff relating to your theme that can be used in your new design.
2. Choose a focal point.
Every room needs a focal point that the other design elements can relate to. It can be a colorful area rug, a painting or other art work, or a collection of treasures from your favorite family hobby.
3. Paint is cheap.
Nothing changes the look of a room more than a fresh coat of paint. Be bold. We're on a budget, so look at your paint selection as a primary factor in your design. And, doing the work yourself saves money.
4. Recycle!
Take a stroll through your home. What can be used with a little tweaking? How about throw pillows that you no longer use. Take out the cushions and use them in new pillow covers you've made yourself. Is there a picture frame that can be reused if you apply a new coat of paint? And don't pass up glass or pottery items. Look at shape rather than color. Specialty glass or ceramic paint can really change the look of that once ugly vase!
5. Barter.
Can't sew? Hate to paint? Talk to friends and relatives that can help. Maybe you make the best darn cheesecake on the planet. Trade one for some sewing tasks or painting labor.
6. Expand your shopping horizons.
Explore new shopping venues. I've often found funky little items in thrift shops and even dollar stores that can be used, with minor modifications, in a room. Again, paint IS YOUR FRIEND!
How do you put these steps into practice? Here's an example. Since Father's Day is around the corner, let's surprise Dad and redecorate the family room using a sports theme. And let's say "Dad" is a real Pittsburgh Steeler fan (they DID just win the Super Bowl). The room currently has beige carpet, a beige sofa, wood coffee table, and a black leather recliner. Ok. Here we go. Using the internet, I chose a great Steeler's area rug ($49.95) as my focal point. I also chose a melamine Steeler tray with bright graphics ($20) to use on the coffee table. Picking up the gold in the Steeler's logo, I chose a softer version for the wall paint ($20). After looking around the house, I found some fabric (black, gold, red) that I can use to create throw pillows for the sofa and chair to bring the Steeler colors onto the neutral furniture. Taking stuffing from unused bed pillows, I've got as many pillows as I need ($0)! I also found family photos of Dad playing football with friends and neighbors. After selecting 6, I'll blow them up to 8 x 10s in black and white, trim them in gold (construction paper) with black frames (purchased at the dollar store and painted), then hang them together for a large wall of art ($10). And, because Dad is already a huge Steeler fan, he has a great framed Steeler poster that I can hang in the room. Add a few more colorful accessories from around the house and voila! A new room and a great Father's Day gift for under $100.00
Whether your family spends it's time at the beach, in the mountains, or at sporting events, making over a kid's bedroom, game room, family room or den can be fun and inexpensive by following these few simple steps.
Happy decorating!
Debbie Corr
For more information on pro or college sports fan gifts and sports fan gear, as well as free shipping and other discount offers for Father's Day and graduation, visit http://www.ultimatesportsfangifts.com
