Thrifty Home Decorating
It’s that time of year again. The snow will be melting soon (hopefully) and the long days of summer are not too far from us. And this is the perfect time to start locating bargain priced redecorating supplies. Many of the big retailers will start lowering prices to move last year’s accessories, paint, wallpaper, fabrics and home decor out to make room for this year. Before you run right out and start buying, make sure you already have a plan. Sale priced items are only a bargain if you need them.
Once you have decided on the room to redecorate, and you have decided on the main furnishings of the room, you are now ready to make a list of colors and materials needed for your bargain decorating makeover. Before you go shopping, make sure you don’t already have these items laying around. I can’t tell you how many times I have bought decorating items I already had simply because I forgot to check and see if I still had them.
If you are looking for paint, ask the paint department about already mixed paints that were not used. You would be amazed how many people go to buy off-white when the need bone white. And that off-white is returned or not purchased, and sits on the bargain table. As long as you can be a little flexible on the color, off-white can be turned into a plethora of colors just as easily as plain white can. And the best part is the price; it can literally be 75% less than buying premium.
Most of you know that wallpaper fashions can be as fickle as the most upscale designer clothing store, and to be perfectly honest, the changes usually are not that drastic. Plus, when you do wall paper you expect the room to be “finished” for at least a few years. With this in mind, shop for last year fashions. You can find exciting colors and designs, retro and hip, modern or traditional, patterned or design all for a fraction of the cost. If you really think you are getting last year’s fashion, just promise yourself you will decorate the room one year earlier than you normally would – it’s still cheaper than paying full price.
Fabric is another way to liven up a room. I personally do not sew, but I do have a friend who reupholsters her furniture at least once every two years. She explores many different colors and patterns, and is able to stay up with the latest fashion trend for a fraction of what her couch and chair would cost. To me it seems like a lot of work, but to her it is a thrill to find an expensive modern material and have the couch re-done. And her house always looks fantastic. She shops for fabric the same way I shop for wallpaper – last years close out.
Remember, bargains are almost always ready to be had, especially this time of year, but you do need to be a little creative to find them. As always, happy shopping.
