How to Update a Sofa Without Spending a Lot of Money

A sofa can be updated using inexpensive throw pillows.

With the expenses that come with maintaining a home, whether it be the mortgage payment or rent, any idea that can make a home beautiful without spending lots of money is an idea worth trying. A sofa is one of the big ticket items to spend on a home. If you have a sofa that still works but is just in need of an update, try these ideas to give your tired sofa a little boost.

Difficulty:

Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need

• Assorted throw pillows
• Pillow cases bought from discount or thrift shops
• Throw
• Slip covers
• Fabric paint
• Fabric paint brush and stamp
• Fringe and fabric piping
• Iron-on transfers

1. An assortment of throw pillows in different colors gave this tired sofa some pizzazz.

   Add assorted throw pillows in different colors to add splashes of color to your plain looking sofa.

2. A silk pillow cover is used to update an old throw pillow.

   Update an old sofa pillow by using pillow covers purchased from a thrift shop or discount stores.

3. Drape a velvet throw in color that matches the pillows and your sofa to add drama.

4. Buy and slip on a slip cover on your sofa. Change it with the season. This is cheaper than buying a new sofa.

5. Use fabric paint to add decorations to your throw pillows or sofa. Use brushes or stamps to decorate in different images. Use iron-on transfers from craft stores. They come in different designs you can use to match your decor.

6. Add fringes, beads, decorative tacks or fabric piping to your sofa by putting them along the outline and bottom part of sofa.

Tips & Warnings

• Sometimes a good cleaning is all it takes to update the look of a tired and dingy sofa. Use upholstery stain removers and then steam to remove the stains.

• Do not use beads that can be easily pulled and swallowed by a baby.

• If you have cats and small puppies, avoid using fringes that would just attract them like toys and end up being ripped from the sofa.