12 Thrifty Tips to Help You Decorate on a Shoestring
Decorating your home doesn’t have to drain your bank account. At Redrose Estate Agents, we understand that whether you’re selling your home or settling into a new one, creating a stylish and comfortable space can feel expensive—but it doesn’t have to be.
With a bit of creativity, some clever planning, and a willingness to reuse and repurpose, you can transform your home on a tight budget. Here are 12 thrifty tips, including smart IKEA hacks and savvy second-hand finds, to help you decorate beautifully on a shoestring.
12 Thrifty Tips to Help You Decorate on a Shoestring
1. Scour Second-hand Sites
Facebook Marketplace, Gumtree, local charity shops, and car boot sales are goldmines for quality furniture and décor at a fraction of the retail price. You’ll be surprised what people give away or sell for next to nothing—sometimes even designer brands!
2. Try an IKEA Hack
IKEA furniture is budget-friendly and endlessly customisable. A quick Pinterest search will show you how to transform basic pieces into something unique. For example, turn a plain MALM drawer unit into a chic statement piece with new handles and stick-on panelling.
3. Upcycle What You’ve Got
Before buying anything new, look at what you already own. That old chest of drawers might just need a coat of paint, or your dining chairs might be revived with fresh upholstery. Sanding, painting, and changing handles can completely transform tired furniture.
4. Create a Gallery Wall
Art doesn’t have to cost the earth. Print your favourite quotes, photos, or digital art and pop them into budget frames. Mix frame sizes and colours for a relaxed, lived-in feel that adds instant character to any room.
5. Go Green with Houseplants
Houseplants are an affordable way to make a space feel fresh and inviting. Pick up cuttings from friends or propagate your own to save even more. Pop them in quirky second-hand pots for added charm.
6. Repurpose Everyday Items
Old jam jars as tea light holders? Crates as bookshelves? Ladders as towel racks? A little imagination can give everyday objects a new lease of life—and give your space a rustic, lived-in vibe.
7. Paint – Your Cheapest Game Changer
A fresh lick of paint can completely change the feel of a room. Stick to lighter neutrals to make spaces feel bigger and brighter. Don’t forget doors, skirting boards, and even floorboards—they can all benefit from a refresh.
8. Switch Out Soft Furnishings
You don’t need to redecorate an entire room. Simply swapping cushion covers, throws, or curtains can make a big visual impact. Look for second-hand bargains or even try your hand at making your own.
9. Use Mirrors to Open Up Space
Mirrors can make a small or dark room feel larger and lighter. You’ll often find oversized ones second-hand at bargain prices. Place them opposite a window to reflect natural light.
10. DIY Wall Panelling
You don’t need a carpenter to get the classic panelled look. Use inexpensive MDF strips, glue, and paint to create your own shaker-style walls—a surprisingly easy project that adds real impact.
11. Feature Walls with Wallpaper Remnants
Ask local wallpaper shops if they have any leftover rolls or offcuts. A single roll can be enough to create a feature wall in a small space like a hallway or bathroom, adding a splash of personality.
12. Style with Purpose
Decorate with items that are both beautiful and functional. Vintage suitcases can double as storage and side tables. Woven baskets look great while hiding clutter. Open shelving can show off stylish kitchenware.
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12 Thrifty Tips to Help You Decorate on a Shoestring