How to Decorate on a Budget

Whether you've recently moved into a new apartment or house or you've decided to revamp your current surroundings, you'll find that designing a home can be pretty expensive. There's furniture to buy, curtains to install, area rugs to lay down, entire rooms to paint or wallpaper, etc.
So, to help you achieve your vision for a little less, we're sharing all of the best ideas for decorating on a budget. Start by identifying the amount of money you're willing to spend ($50? $100? $500?) and then focus on one room or corner at a time. Most of these projects can be completed in a single afternoon, by people of any skill level..

Photo: Stacy Zarin Goldberg. From: Zoe Feldman Design.

Turn Cutting Boards Into Kitchen Art

If you have cutting boards to spare, hang them on your kitchen walls as affordable artwork. In this chic kitchen by designer Zoe Feldman, the walnut cutting boards pull some organic texture into the space and balance out the sleek marble and metallic finishes.

Photo: Flynnside Out Productions

Look for Vintage Pennants

Instead of buying brand-new art, browse local flea markets and garage sales for vintage pennants. Depending on their size, most pennants cost just $10-$25 and can give your home a sense of history and character. If you're not sure where to start, look for flags that reflect your hometown, alma mater or some destinations on your bucket list.

Photo: Carley Summers. From: Corine Maggio.

Embrace an Accent Wall

Wallpaper can do wonders for your bedroom. Save money by grabbing just one roll and creating an accent wall. In this contemporary bedroom, designer Corine Maggio specifically chose a floral print with blues hues to complement her client's existing headboard.

Photo: Ryan Garvin. From: Prairie.

Leave a Message With Letter Hooks

Make a statement in your bathroom (without retiling the walls or floor) by hanging alphabet hooks. In this Southwestern-style space from Prairie, the designers used matte black letters to spell out "WASH" and give their clients' shower some extra personality. Alphabet hooks would make a fun and budget-friendly addition to a kid's bathroom, too.

Photo: Kayla Stark

Snag a Graphic Throw Blanket

If you can't splurge on a new patterned bedding set, choose a graphic throw blanket instead. In this eclectic bedroom from designer Maureen Stevens, the "all-seeing eye" blanket enlivens the solid white comforter and gives the owners the option to change it out later.

Photo: Julie Soefer. From: Nest Design Group.

Disguise Outdated Bathroom Tile

If you're not totally in love with your bathroom floor, try disguising the tile with an oversized area rug. In this transitional spa bath, Nest Design Group added style and comfort underfoot with an Oriental rug that stretches from the vanity to the tub.

Photo: Keyanna Bowen

Get Creative With Side Tables

Traditional nightstands can be surprisingly expensive. So we say opt for stylish side tables, like designer Malcolm Simmons did here. The marble-and-brass accent is just as functional as a nightstand (especially with its second shelf) but much more affordable.

Credits: Katie Friedman | HGTV