How to Study Interior Decorating at Home

Whether you are looking for ideas on how to decorate your own home or you want to turn your passion for interior decorating into a full-time job, there are many options for studying interior decorating at home. Before taking a course of action, decide on your ultimate objective. If you are looking for informal advice and ideas to use in your own home, you may not need to take the same route as someone looking for a career in interior decorating.

Things You'll Need

• Computer
• Desk
• Architectural scale
• Drafting table

Instructions

For Use in Your Home

1. A cost-effective way to learn about interior decorating is to check out books from your local library. There are books containing design advice that range from how to pick paint colors and coordinate a roomful of furniture to properly arranging art. As long as you turn everything back in on time, the books are always free.

2. Another easy and convenient resource is the Internet. There are numerous websites with free advice, tips and gallery upon gallery of photos to inspire you.

3. Hire a local interior designer to come into your home and teach a class with you and a few of your neighbors and friends. What better way to learn about decorating than straight from someone who does it for a living. The designer could give presentations on a topic that the two of you work out together, or give general design advice and answer specific questions for each of the participants. Put out some wine and cheese and you've got a decorating event that everyone will enjoy.

For a Career in Decorating and Interior Design

1. Distance-learning courses are available online from nationally accredited community colleges and universities, which offer programs from certificates of completion to bachelor's degrees in interior design. Decide how much time and money you want to put into your education and choose the program that is right for you. If you are looking for a career as a professional interior designer, a degree from an accredited community college or university is the best way to enter the field.

2. For close to $1000, home-study courses designed by a professional decorator are available. Enrollment in these programs includes some supplies, access to an online classroom community, and various study modules on topics ranging from lighting and color to closing a sale. Completion of the program will earn students a certificate of completion and membership to the Association of Design Education.

3. Learn from a professional designer by taking online decorating classes from the comfort of your own home. These days, some design professionals are choosing to broaden their scope of services from strictly interior design to holding classes and seminars. In these online "webinars," designers share the knowledge they have gained from their education and years of professional experience. The classes can run anywhere from $300 to $1500.

Tips & Warnings

• Be sure to thoroughly check references and qualifications before making any payment.

References

• American Society of Interior Designers
• Academy of Decorating
• Home Study Courses