This post has 6 tips for how to decorate on a budget with just the basics.
Being able to decorate on a budget is easy with basic everyday items. Budget decorating invites creativity and gives each piece in your home a story.
Where did you find it, how did you think of that great decorating idea?
The trick to being able to decorate on a budget is to find items with multiple uses or aesthetics. Find those few solid pieces to elevate your home, or easily swap pieces to “redecorate” for the seasons.
Changing Cushion Covers, or throws can change the feel of a room. Adding or taking away coffee table accessories can easily shift the focus of a room.
Changing out artwork from frames provides another budget-friendly decorating idea.
Changing Artwork does not need to be expensive and can be done without breaking the bank.
1. Cushions and Throw Pillow.
Cushions are one of the easiest ways to elevate a room. The key is to focus on odd numbers, textures, colors, and shapes/sizes. Odd numbers, like 3, 5, or 7 cushions, work well on sofas and chairs because they create a balanced yet dynamic arrangement.
Choosing the Right Shapes and Sizes
Start by mixing different sizes and shapes to create dimension. A combination of square, rectangular, and even round pillows can make your seating area more visually interesting. Try pairing larger pillows at the back and smaller accent cushions in front for a layered look.
Play with Textures and Colors
Textures and colors are where your personality can truly shine. Velvet, corduroy, knitted fabrics, fringes, or even beaded pillows add depth and richness to a room. You can also change cushion covers seasonally to refresh the look without purchasing new pillows. For example, choose soft velvet covers in warmer tones for fall, then switch to light linen covers in pastel shades for spring.
Recommended textures:
- Velvet for a touch of luxury
- Knitted covers for a cozy feel
- Corduroy to add warmth
- Fringed or beaded designs for an eclectic touch
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2. Frames and Artwork
Decorating with frames and artwork is another affordable yet impactful way to refresh your space. Frames can be easily found at thrift stores, flea markets, or even online at affordable prices, making them a great option for budget decorators.
Move Art Around for a Fresh Look
One of the simplest tricks to make a room feel new is to move your existing art and frames to different walls. Rearranging artwork can change the flow of a room and add visual interest without spending a dime. You can also create gallery walls by combining multiple frame sizes to add depth and character to a blank wall.
Use Budget-Friendly Fillers for Frames
Don’t limit yourself to expensive artwork or photography. Print photos, scrapbook paper, or even vintage magazine clippings can create a unique and personalized display. Another idea is to frame pieces of fabric that complement the room’s color scheme, adding a soft and elegant touch. Scrapbooking paper is also a fantastic option since it comes in various colors, patterns, and sizes, ideal for smaller frames on shelves or furniture.
Tip: Rotate the content inside your frames seasonally for a fresh look all year long!
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3. decorate on a budget With Coffee Table and Bookshelf Accents
Coffee tables and bookshelves are focal points in many living rooms, but they can often feel cluttered. Keep it simple with a few strategically placed items that can be moved around to create a fresh look without buying new decor.
The same rule can apply to seasonal decorating adding a couple of seasonal options can create a seasonal atmosphere without breaking the bank.
Create Interest with Trays and Accessories
A well-placed tray on your coffee table or shelf can be both functional and decorative. Use it to group smaller objects, such as candles, books, or small plants. This draws the eye to the area and gives it a polished, intentional look. You can easily swap out accessories to match the season—adding a few autumn leaves, pinecones, or a festive candle in fall, and replacing them with lighter, brighter items in spring.
Try mixing materials like ceramic, metal, or wood trays to suit the style of your space. Mirrored trays can add a touch of glam, while woven trays bring in a rustic or boho feel. You can find a wide range of affordable trays and accessories online, at flea markets, or at discount stores.
Tip: Less is more—keep only a few statement pieces on display to avoid clutter.
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4. Thrift Store Finds: Budget Decor Goldmine
One of the most overlooked places to find affordable home decor is your local thrift store. With a little patience and a good eye, you can find unique and budget-friendly items like vases, picture frames, and even furniture. Keep an open mind—sometimes a fresh coat of paint or a little DIY can turn an ordinary thrift find into a one-of-a-kind statement piece.
Here’s what to look for when thrifting:
- Picture frames: Easy to repaint or refinish to suit your decor
- Vases and pots: These can be great for displaying fresh flowers or plants
- Books: Old hardbacks can make for stylish decor on coffee tables or bookshelves
- Mirrors: A vintage mirror can add both style and the illusion of more space
5. Fabric and Textiles: Versatile and Budget-Friendly
Fabric is an often-underutilized tool in decorating. Whether you’re using it for throw pillow covers, curtains, or tablecloths, fabric can tie a room together and create a cohesive look. Buying fabric bundles in complementing colors allows you to sew your pillow covers, curtains, or even DIY table runners. Look for upholstery fabric or cotton blends that add texture and color without being too expensive.
Not into sewing? Fabric can still be a key element in your decor. Drape a piece of patterned fabric over a table or frame sections of fabric as artwork for an easy, budget-friendly decor update.
6. Seasonal Decor Swaps
You don’t need to completely redecorate your space every season. Instead, focus on small, simple swaps to give your home a refreshed look. Cushions, throws, candles, and even the items on your coffee table or shelves can be switched out to reflect the time of year. For example, opt for warm, cozy textures like knits and faux fur in winter, and light, breezy materials like linen in the summer.
If you’re on a tight budget, stick to key areas to make the biggest impact. Swap out your throw pillows, add a new tray on your coffee table, or change the artwork in your frames to reflect the season.
