DIY Decor
After the deposits and fees accompanying the signing of a new lease and moving into a new apartment, many people don’t have much of a budget left for glamorous interior design. Many apartments are furnished with thrift store finds and ready-to-assemble pieces from big-box stores. But fortunately, there are many innovative and crafty ways to enhance what you have. Do it yourself to create a stylish, personalized look within your budget.
Furniture
Spruce up old wooden furniture with decoupage. This is a cost-effective way to add a unique look that can easily be done in a small space with no mess or toxic fumes (assuming non-toxic glue is used).
The only materials needed are wrapping paper or wall paper, decoupage glue and a sponge. Put simply, the process involves spreading a thin layer of glue on sections of paper, smoothing the paper onto the furniture and giving the piece a final two to three coats of decoupage glue or clear sealant to finish. Decoupage glue brand, Mod Podge, has helpful instructions on its Web site.
Accessories
One of the easiest changes you can make in decor is to switch out accessories. Throw pillows are an especially quick way to change the look or style of a sofa or chair due to the variety of colors and patterns available.
But pillows are surprisingly pricey. High-end pillows can cost hundreds of dollars. However, it’s easy to achieve the luxury look on your own without dropping big bucks –you don’t even need to sew! Many craft stores carry no-sew pillow forms and the only additional supplies you’ll need are fabric and a decorative accessory (a button, flower or ribbon), also available at the craft store. Cut the fabric to size and follow the pillow form directions. This usually involves tucking the fabric into a slot in the center of the pillow, then covering the opening with the ribbon or button accessory.
Walls
Painting the walls in your apartment is not always an option. And why even go through the hassle when there are easier ways to add a splash of color? Wall decals are one of the hottest new trends in home decor.
Several stores and home décor companies carry the decals, which are usually a colored silhouette of an object or motif. Blik wall decals come in a huge variety of designs and colors. Simply place the decals on the wall in whatever pattern you wish. Use several small decals for a wallpaper-like effect, or place a few large shapes on a wall for a bold statement. Be sure to look for the removable variety so that you can take them off if you ever leave the apartment.
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