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Are you tired of the same old décor, but either the budget or time restraints can’t accommodate a major redo? Try a few of the following decorating tips to give your rooms a quick change without spending a lot of money or time.

 

Instead of painting the entire room, paint just an accent wall. Use a totally different color that coordinates with your existing furniture, perhaps something a bit more daring. You might try a bright, cheerful color in the kitchen or breakfast room, or maybe a darker, more dramatic color in the living room or dining room.

 

Re-arrange the furniture in your room using the decorating guidelines on the Furniture Layouts page. You’ll get a whole new look for zero dollars and very little time.

 

If your upholstered furniture pieces are looking a bit worn or dated, cover them with slip covers. This is also an easy and inexpensive way to change the look of your room with the seasons, from a heavier winter look to a lighter summer feel.

 

Use some of the creative ideas on the Window Coverings page to add new window treatments. You can also change their look seasonally by removing heavier winter draperies and using a simple valance over sheer curtains or blinds.

 

Change the accent pillows in your room. Whether you buy them, make your own, or add trims to store-bought pillows, they can help change the color and style of your room. You can change them out with each season.  Throw pillows can create a whole new look for very little cost.

 

Draping a light-weight throw over a chair or sofa can add new color, texture and style to your room. It can also hide an unsightly stain or tear in the upholstery.

 

Adding an area rug is another easy and inexpensive way to change the look of a room. Rugs are sold at a variety of discount and home improvement stores in a wide range of prices. They can add color and texture, help define a conversation area, make a room feel cozier, or completely change the room’s style. Use airy colors in light-weight woven rugs for a summer look, and darker, more vibrant colors in thick, plush carpets for a winter feel.

 

Accessories and wall art are the finishing touches in any room. Moving these pieces from one room to another can create a quick decorating change. Collect similar items that you have scattered throughout your home and display them together in one room to create a new theme. For instance, gather your husband’s sports memorabilia and arrange it in a home office or den.

 

A new piece of wall art might be just the focal point your room needs. You can find inexpensive framed prints at many discount stores, furniture resale stores or garage sales. It might inspire you to take your room’s décor in a whole new direction. Changing the accessories and wall décor is an easy way to give your room a quick makeover.

 

Add inexpensive new accessories, such as candles to match your new color scheme or greenery (real or silk) to add softness and life to the space. Include flea market finds, such as baskets or ornamental metal pieces which can be painted to coordinate with your décor.

 

Change out the lampshades in your room. You can purchase inexpensive shades at many home improvement or discount stores. Or spruce up a lampshade you found at a garage sale or one you already own by painting it, covering it with fabric or simply adding trims such as beading or braid. You can do the same thing with most lamp bases for a whole new look. Get FREE instructions for customizing lamp bases and shades on The Crafty Cottage website.

 

Add accent lighting to create drama and brighten any dark corners. An inexpensive floor can placed behind a tall plant will create highlights and patterns on the walls and ceiling. Add a small picture light to emphasize a special piece of wall art. Place a string of low-voltage rope lights inside a curio cabinet to showcase collectibles. These are all quick, low-budget tricks that can add a bit of sparkle to any room. Get more suggestions for lighting your home on the Lighting page.

 

Make your home an expression of your own personal style. Changing your décor doesn’t have to cost a bundle. All it takes is a little time and effort and a bit of creativity.

 

Get more decorating tips and creative designer tricks from No Rules-Just Fun Decorating and Ten Common Home Decorating Mistakes. (both sold at left)

 

Check out our other decorating books and e-books below.

Visit the Blue Sage Press website for more fun how-to books and e-books about decorating, cooking, planning weddings and parties, and crafting

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