Ever heard the term “balling on a budget”? Well, here’s a new one for you: “designing on a dime”! While setting out to decorate your home can seem like a costly endeavor, it doesn’t have to be.  Take a look through our budget-friendly decor tips and tricks below. You’ll be able to channel your thrifty inner decorator to create a divinely decorated home in no time!

Tip #1: Make A Plan 

The very first thing you’ll want to do is make a decor-related plan. First, you want to establish a budget ahead of time, so you already have some financial parameters to work with. 

Secondly, now is the time to get some inspiration. Questions to ask yourself are: What’s my style? What expresses my personality? How do I want my home to make me feel? How will I use my space? If you don’t know where to start, Pinterest and Tik Tok are great for ideas and inspo! If you still feel a little stuck, consider walking through show homes in nearby communities. Sometimes seeing homes in person is a great way to kick off your inspiration.

Not only will having an established plan make your search easier, but it’s a great way to keep you from becoming overwhelmed and blowing your budget. 

Tip #2: Get Organized

Clutter is the sworn enemy of a well-decorated home. Not only does it take up space, but it also attracts negative attention when it should be the other way around. Make it a priority to organize the space, first and foremost. This may mean getting rid of things you don’t need or purchasing storage bins to stow away items. 

Keep in mind if you’re on the hunt for furniture, dual-purpose items such as ottomans, desks, and decorative bins are a great way to store away items while also adding to the space aesthetically! Of course, a few home storage hacks are always handy to know as well. 

Tip #3: Repurpose Existing Pieces 

Now that you’ve planned and organized, take stock of what you already have. You can save some serious cash by breathing some new life into old pieces. For example, your old coffee table may be suited for the 70s, but if it’s in good shape you can transform it completely with a little sandpaper and a new coat of paint.

Consider purchasing chalk paint to add some new character to old bookshelves, end tables, or dressers (without the sanding and stripping). Even simple changes like swapping out the hardware for more modern handles can go a long way. Well-built chairs can be easily spruced up with a little reupholstering and some fresh paint. 

Tip #4: Second Hand Savings 

Kijiji, Facebook Marketplace, second-hand stores, and yard sales can be your best friends in terms of finding quality items for a steal of a deal. This is especially true for furniture. While some items may need a little TLC, you can find unique, quality pieces that can be easily refinished. Check out these neat ideas on how others decorated their space with second hand finds.

Tip #5: Refresh Your Linens  

Not very artistic? No problem! Replacing your throw pillows, blankets, and even your curtains can be a great day to spruce up your space. Ikea, Amazon, and Walmart have a great selection of items, for great prices too!

Tip #6: Add a Little Paint 

Paint is a quick and inexpensive way to transform the look of a room. You can do all walls, or paint a feature wall in a bold colour for an interesting focal point. Using different paint effects or stencils can also really add some flair. Be sure to clean and prime your walls first, however, to ensure great paint coverage.

Paint doesn’t have to be limited to the walls. You can also consider painting your ceiling, baseboards, or window sills. Spray paint is also great for old photo frames and other collectibles you may want to tie into your colour scheme. 

Tip #7: Make Your Own Stuff

If you just can’t find the right items, consider making your own! For starters, photographs make great wall decor items. Not only is this an affordable option, but nothing expresses your personality more than highlighting some of your favourite people and life’s moments.

Other options might include creating your own DIY wall art or making your own pillows and/or curtains. 

Tip #8: Know Where to Spend

While of course, you want to save as much as possible, there are a few items you should prepare to spend a little more on. Lighting is a great example. Rather than keep dull or outdated fixtures, you can really transform a room by investing in some quality lighting. This also rings true for lamps – as mismatched lamps will detract from the decor. 

Other items to spend a little more on may include easy to clean and durable fabrics for curtains, pillows, bedding etc. The same applies to area rugs and furniture, as you’ll want them to resist wear and tear. As we mentioned before, second-hand stores can be great places to find quality items. 

Tip #9: Be Patient

Most importantly, be patient. Sure, you may not find everything you’re looking for right away. But a little perseverance will pay off. Wait for sales, or be diligent in visiting thrift stores until you find that perfect piece. Rushing into purchases (even if they are discount ones) can cost you more long term. 

Just because you’re on a budget, doesn’t mean you have to sacrifice style for affordability. Keep the above tips in mind when you embark on your home decorating journey – you’ll be happy with both your decor and your bank account balance. 

Photo credits: sofa, cupboard, sewing