We promise it’s true! You can have a beautifully decorated home without breaking the bank. We know this is contrary what big box retailers would have you believe. So no, you don’t need to take out a line of credit at IKEA. If you’re looking for some affordable ways to update your space, take a look at the following ideas. These thrifty home decor tips will help you incorporate some stellar style into your home; even if you only have a shoestring budget to work with.

1. Shop Second Hand

Discount stores and thrift shops will be your allies when decorating on a budget. Once you start planning your decor project; be sure to look for weekly store fliers and consider registering online to receive coupons by email.

2. Paint an Accent Wall

You don’t have to paint your entire home for the purpose of decoration. An accent wall will only require about a quart of paint; furthermore, you can also always apply texture, play with patterns or even use decorative wallpaper.

3. Decorate With Fabric

If you aren’t prepared to spend a lot on window treatments, consider dressing them with a few curtain alternatives. For example, you can use a few yards of fabric to frame windows or glass doors. You don’t have to spend a lot on expensive fabric, either. Discount fabric stores have tons of selection and offer great prices. Who knows? You may even have enough left over for matching throw pillows or a reupholstery project.

4. Can the Clutter

Good storage will be your best friend in terms of keeping your home looking attractive. Consider incorporating a few colourful storage bins under your end tables, or add a few hooks below your kitchen cupboards to show off a set of matching coffee mugs. There are plenty of decorative storage options you can use to keep your home looking stylish and organized.

5. Go Green

The garden look never goes out of style, is very affordable, and doesn’t need to be limited to the exterior of your house. Bright bromeliads, hydrangeas, peace lilies and even some orchid species will be happy to grow inside your home if you provide them with proper care.

Not much of a green thumb? No problem! You can achieve the same effect by incorporating a few well-placed arrangements of colourful silk flowers.

6. Update Your Hardware

This simple decorating trick is often overlooked. The idea is to look around your house for fixtures that can be replaced for others that look much better. For example, remove one of the handles or knobs on the doors and drawers of your kitchen cabinets and ask for better-looking fixtures at your local home improvement store. Decorative brass fixtures never go out of style; however, you may prefer the brushed steel look.

7. Make Your Own Décor

With the thousands of DIY décor posts available nowadays, you’re sure to find some simple and affordable projects that really appeal to your personal style. Consider making your own throw pillows, framing and hanging your own photos, or creating your own DIY wall art. Refinish some old quality furniture you find at a thrift store. The possibilities are endless. Not only will you achieve great personal satisfaction as you proudly display your work, you can custom tailor these projects to your own tastes.

In the end, decorating your home should not have to cost an arm and a leg, particularly if you’re moving into a new construction property. Keep the following advice from famous Canadian interior designer Jillian Harris in mind: take your time, have fun, think in terms of colour, and don’t spend too much if you don’t have too much to spend.

Photo credit: painting wall, pig and brush, photo collage