How to Forage for Decorating Items

Decorating is a challenge in the best of times, but decorating on a budget can be particularly difficult. When you're trying to put together a good look on a budget, you probably can't buy everything at the same time or in the same store, so you have to rely on color swatches, photos, your memory and ingenuity to help you make good choices. Using your wits and creativity can be part of the fun, but it requires a strong sense of commitment and some stout walking shoes.

Difficulty: Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Measuring tape Swiss Army knife Magnifying glass Large bag Notebook Comfortable shoes Calculator

1. Be open-minded. Your vision for the perfect privacy screen, dining table or rocking chair may not be available on the first go-round, so try to be flexible. Once you drop your preconceived notions, you're open to the possibilities of what's in front of you. This may send you in newer and better directions, and that's part of the fun.

2. Trust your judgment. Just because there are experts who get paid to design living spaces doesn't mean that you can't do a great job on your own. You know yourself and your family, and understanding your unique style is worth something. If you've been dressing yourself, you know about color and texture, so give yourself some credit. Even the professionals don't always get it right the first time out, so show some initiative and give that new lamp a try.

3. Keep a notebook of looks you like. Have a section for each of the rooms you're planning on decorating that includes samples of fabric, paint chips, wood stains and other items that will help you make informed choices. Take accurate measurements of your rooms and keep them handy. Carry the notebook with you whenever you shop.

4. Take a roomy tote. If you are looking around for bargains, whether it's at the dump, a garage sale, the local thrift store or an estate auction, you'll be better prepared if you take a bag with some storage room. This will give you some space for your essentials and for additional items.

5. Be prepared. You never know where your explorations will take you, and if you find a perfect bookshelf in a Dumpster somewhere, you want to be able to capitalize on your find. Whenever possible, keep a measuring tape, magnifying glass, Swiss army knife and calculator with you on your excursions. If you're traveling in your car--and that's a good idea--have a tarp, painter's tape for marking, and rope on hand in your trunk.

6. Stay comfortable. Make sure you have water, sunscreen, comfortable shoes, sunglasses and hand wipes. Anti-bacterial gel and ointment are good things to have around, too.