Money Wellness
Image of a man painting a wall. DIY on a budget. Do up your home for less
category iconmoney saver
calendar icon29 May 2024

Spruce up your home on a shoestring budget

Giving your home a fresh new look doesn't have to break the bank. With a little creativity and some savvy shopping, you can transform your living space without spending a fortune. Here are some top tips to help you do up your home on a budget.

Hunt for bargains at charity shops and boot sales

One of the best ways to find unique, affordable items for your home is to scour local charity shops and car boot sales. You could also check out websites such as Vinterior, eBay and Preloved.

You never know what treasures you might uncover, from vintage furniture to quirky decor pieces. Keep an open mind and be prepared to do a bit of DIY to give your finds a new lease of life.

Get crafty with paint and upcycling

A lick of paint can work wonders when it comes to refreshing your home on a budget. Whether you're giving a tired piece of furniture a new look or creating a feature wall, a few tins of paint can go a long way. Save on paint by checking out the clearance aisles in your local DIY centre, only buying when it is on offer, or using a paint calculator so you don’t buy more than you need.

Upcycling is another great way to save money while putting your own stamp on your home. With a little imagination, you can transform everyday objects into unique decor pieces. For example, try turning an old ladder into a quirky bookshelf or repurposing glass jars as cute plant pots. There are lots of ideas and useful how-to videos available on YouTube.

Shop smart for soft furnishings

Soft furnishings like cushions, curtains, and rugs can make a big impact on the look and feel of your home. However, they can also be pricey. To save money, keep an eye out for sales and discounts at your favourite homeware stores. Or check out budget homeware shops, such as IKEA, Dunelm, AmazonBasics, H&M Home, B&M and Matalan.

Bring the outdoors in with plants

Adding some greenery to your home is an easy and inexpensive way to breathe new life into your space. Plants not only look great, but they also help to purify the air and boost your mood. Start with low-maintenance varieties like succulents or spider plants, and gradually build up your collection as your confidence grows.

Get creative with wall art

Wall art is a great way to add some personality to your home without spending a fortune. Instead of splashing out on expensive prints or paintings, try making your own. You could create a gallery wall using favourite photos, postcards, or even pages from old books. Alternatively, try your hand at some simple DIY art projects, like painting a canvas or creating a macrame wall hanging.

With these budget-friendly tips, you'll be well on your way to creating a stylish, inviting home that reflects your unique personality. Remember, the key is to be creative, think outside the box, and have fun with it!

Avatar of Caroline Chell

Caroline Chell

Caroline has worked in financial communications for more than 10 years, writing content on subjects such as pensions, mortgages, loans and credit cards, as well as stockbroking and investment advice.

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