How to Decorate Your Living Room, On a Budget

The living room is the most important room in your home. It is where everyone gathers, and enjoys spending time together. Decorating the living room can be fun, and you can stay on a budget.

Difficulty: Moderate

Instructions

1. The first thing you should do, clean and declutter. Less is better. Remove all unwanted boxes, and other items that should not be in this space.Clean everything; windows, flooring, furniture, and walls. This will give you a canvas to work with. With everything clean you will be able to notice things you need, and it does not cost a thing.

2. Rearrange your furniture. Experiment with the furniture. Take the couch away from the wall, move the TV around. You can also angle your furniture. Try different things. Do not just think it will not work, Try it first.

3. If your furniture is not in a very good condition, paint it, or use slipcovers. There are many different types of slip covers. You can get them at most retail stores, for very low prices. You may also want to shop local thrift stores, discount stores, or even yard sales. Slip covers are washable, so previously used is OK. You can also improve your furniture with throw pillows.

4. You can easily improve the sitting are with a new rug. Area rugs can be bought for a small amount if you are willing to take the time to shop around. Don't be afraid to experiment with the colors. Every color does not have to match, just don't overpower the other items in your room.

5. A fresh coat of paint will always improve any room. Shop at your local hardware store for clearance paints. You may also ask friends and family if they may have any left over from a project. If you insist on using darker colors, have an accent wall. If the entire room is dark, it will appear small.

6. Use wall art, pictures, and accessories in your living room. You may be able to find these items already in your home. If you need more, shop yard sales for great items. Some items may need to be fixed a small amount, but be creative. You may also want to try your local discount stores. Find items you would like, that have small defects. The manager may take a small amount off of the price. It will not hurt to ask.

7. Plants will make any room more inviting. Real plants are the best to have an outside feel inside. If you do not have a green thumb, find nice, low prices fake plants. You want the to have the appearance of being real, so shop around for the perfect plants.
   
   Shop around at you local thrift shops, discount stores, or yard sales. You will get the best price on any items you will need to decorate your living room. Don't be afraid to experiment, and be creative. It is your living room, you should have it decorated to your taste.

[rkremer]

on 9/18/2009 Very good tips. Just rearranging furniture really livens up a room.