For many people, the living room is one of the most used rooms in the home. It’s a place you want to feel comfortable and inviting. If you’ve been staring at the same style for several years, you may be bored with the look. You may even find yourself spending less time in the room. If you feel that you don’t have enough money in your budget to redecorate, think again. Let’s look at some tips for decorating on a budget when it comes to living rooms.
8 Tips for Decorating on a Budget
Consider a New Layout
One of the easiest things you can do when decorating on a budget is to consider a new layout. Simply moving the furniture around can give you a brand-new look. Instead of moving the furniture several times, draw out the room on graph paper and measure your furniture. Cut pieces of graph paper to resemble your furniture and move them around the paper to see what works and what doesn’t.
Shop the Rest of Your Home
Chances are you have pieces around your home that you’re no longer using. You may even have a stash of pieces in your basement or attic. Look through these pieces and see what you like. Even if the color doesn’t work for your living room, you can always paint the pieces with spray paint. This is a great way to reuse those older pieces.
Save Money on Paint
If you really want to save on paint, check for a clearance section. You’ll often find paint that didn’t quite match the color the customer wanted or paint that was never picked up. Make sure you know exactly how much paint you need because it may be impossible to match paint that was mis-tinted or otherwise an error.
Determine Which Pieces You Need
If you want to add new pieces to your living room, sit down and decide exactly what you want. Do you want to upgrade to a sectional? Do you need a new coffee table? Write down exactly what you want and maybe print out some pictures for inspiration on what to look for.
Take Measurements
If you haven’t taken measurements already, take the time to measure the areas where you want new pieces to go. The last thing you want to do is purchase a piece that can’t be returned and find out it doesn’t fit. Carry a tape measure with you along with the measurements so that you can measure any pieces that you’re interested in.
Start at Thrift Stores, Yard Sales, and Flea Markets
Before heading to furniture and home décor stores, start at thrift stores, yard sales, and flea markets. You can find so many great pieces. The key is to be openminded. Remember, you can always paint or stain a piece of furniture a different color. These places are also great for finding wall décor and accessories.
Check Clearance Sections and Sales
Big Lots, Walmart, Burlington, and many other discount stores have amazing clearance sections. Make sure to pay attention to these sections. You can find some awesome deals that can give your home a brand-new look while sticking to your budget.
Find Filler Items at the Dollar Tree
Last, but not least, the Dollar Tree has so many great pieces for filling in areas between larger items. You can find candle holders, wall décor, decorative accessories, faux floral, and much more. Shop different stores and shop often. The store is always getting in new things and each store can have different items.
Decorating on a small budget is easier than you might think. Sometimes, you don’t have to spend any money at all. You can rearrange furniture and use items you already have to create a brand-new look that doesn’t cost a dime. Sometimes moving pieces in from another room will make your living room look amazing. Be creative and think outside the box to get a look that doesn’t break the budget.
If you loved learning how to decorate your living room on a small budget, make sure to check out my other budget decorating articles. And, if you want even more tips for living the frugal life, make sure to subscribe to my YouTube channel.