On A Penny-Pincher's Budget
One of the fastest, most effective and least expensive ways to change your rooms is to use color! The color forecast for 2004 is one everyone can appreciate -- it's all about comfort! Shades from nature, warm rich colors from exotic parts of the world, or well-worn colors are all great choices for a comfort-filled home. Here are some great ways to add color to your home, without breaking the bank!
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Yes, you all knew I was going to say that, but try something a little different this year! Learn to sponge paint or rag roll, tape off wide stripes in a different shade of the same color, combine a painted wall with stamping or stenciling.
Use a rich color in at least one room, and paint your ceilings and woodwork too! Or try that brave new color on a key piece of furniture.
2. Use fabric
Fabric can be expensive, but there are
ways to cut the costs dramatically. Shop your thrift
stores for sheets, blankets and quilts to use as
tablecloths and window coverings.
Check the bargain bin at the local fabric store. They often have beautiful fabrics at discount prices simply because they have been discontinued. Use cheap muslin, then add a border of a decorative fabric to save lots of cash.
Use worn sweaters to stitch up a throw pillow cover. I
once used a "never to be used again" maternity blouse
to create gorgeous silk pillows for my living room.
Look in your closets and linen chest for items in your
color scheme that can be pressed into service.
3. Cover the matting in your wall art with colorful
paper or fabric to coordinate with your room
Or paint your picture frames! This brings color and interest to
your walls, guides the eye upward, and ties your room
together.
4. Look for accessories at the local dollar store
Many
colorful candles, baskets, bowls, and statuettes can be
found for just a buck!
5. Add plants
Every room comes alive with plants, and
they add a neutral but uplifting amount of color to
your home. Think you have no green thumb? Sprout carrot
tops, ivy cuttings from the yard, or potato cuttings,
then pot up and put in a brightly lit spot. Even if your
thumb fails you, they cost you nothing, and can easily
be grown again!
