- Focus on small touches that can make a big difference. While it is expensive to replace a sofa, it is much cheaper to buy new throw pillows or make your own. New throw pillows can really make a big difference on a couch or bed. Try placing fresh flowers from your garden in simple glass jars around the house. Grab a can of black or white spray paint and paint all of those old gold brass candle holders and frames that you have stuffed in a box in the garage. They will look modern and new again! Finally, add potted plants to your home. These are also inexpensive and add a touch of nature to your rooms.
- Grab a can of paint and paint those walls. Paint is the most dramatic way to make an impact in your home, and it is very inexpensive to boot. Try painting just one wall a bright accent color, or your moldings and baseboards bright white or a rich brown. In addition, consider installing wainscoting about a third of the way up your walls. This look is especially nice in bathrooms and does not cost a lot of money. You can even purchase thin, plastic wainscoting panels in various colors at your local home and garden center that can be easily installed with construction adhesive.
- Garage sales, yard sales and thrift stores are all places where you might find a great deal. One person's trash in another person's treasure! Don't let the color stop you from picking up a piece of furniture that has good bones, either. Grab that can of spray paint, switch out the hardware and you just may have yourself a fabulous new dresser for very little cost. Other things you can commonly find at yard sales besides furniture include frames (just throw out that velvet painting and keep the frame), silk plants, old books and collectibles.
