Cheap Decorating Ideas

I'm all about using what you have and making it better. Simple things like sewing pillow covers for pillow you already have is a perfect example of how doing it yourself will save you money!

The obvious places to get bargains are thrift stores and garage sales. If you haven't explored your local thrift stores you might want to check them out. You can find anything from large furniture pieces, to fabric, to curtains to small knick knack type decorative items and very, very cheaply. Garage sales are always hit and miss since they are items from just one family (usually) and so the sheer amount of stuff and variety is much less. However, prices are incredible and there is great thrill in the hunt. Sometimes all something needs is a quick spray paint makeover to fit perfectly with your decor.

Now while thrift store and garage sale prices are grand, free is very hard to pass up. In every city and town, people throw out perfectly good stuff. Have you seen it? I've seen whole dining sets just sitting by the side of the road, for free! Our Trash to Treasure - DIY Cheap Decorating Ideas section has DIY projects with how-to instructions for things like reupholstering, painting and refinishing. These are all great skills to possess when you find a decor item that has potential but needs some updating.

I also love to use things not for their intended purpose as a decorational element in a room. Think vintage! Our vintage stove turned bar is a great example. An old non-working phone, a chippy paint metal scale or a large rusty gear can make beautiful and interesting decorative items. Hang platters and plates on the wall instead of paintings or stack wooden wine boxes to build unique furniture.

Now don't forget to check your own backyard for cheap decorating ideas! Natural things work wonders and they are free. Can't get cheaper than free! An interesting branch spray painted a vibrant color hung on the wall is instant modern art. Smooth rocks from a river bed can stack up like sculptures and of course shells from the beach are lovely displayed in a glass jar.

Sure, you can shop sales and closeouts at traditional decor retail places, but your best cheap decorating ideas will come from thinking outside of the big box store!