10 Ways to Decorate for Less

HUNT FOR ANTIQUES (OR ALMOST ANTIQUES)
You can find great stuff at flea markets, antique shops, and thrift stores if you keep your eyes open. Flea markets can be treasure troves for large pieces of furniture, while some thrift shops have kitchen sections. You can even find collectibles if you look hard. A shelf of bright Fiestaware will make your kitchen sparkle, even if you got it on the cheap.

Tip: Shop late in the day at flea markets -- it's when vendors are willing to make deals so they won't have to cart stuff home. Don't be shy about bargaining; everyone does it.

Courtesy of Fiestaware

HEAD TO BARNES & NOBLE
Those cozy armchairs are beckoning, so grab an armful of decorating books and take a load off. Flip through for inspiration -- you don't need to buy the expensive stuff, but you may get some ideas about color and placement.

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CAST AN EYE ON CASTOFFS
Mom and Dad probably have a boatload of stuff they'd love to give you. Some of it may be horrid (like those orange '70s plastic stools) but some items may have retro cool (like those orange '70s plastic stools). Don't be shy -- ask to raid the 'rents' castoffs.

Tip: Once you decide what to keep, offer to organize a yard sale for Mom and Dad. They'll probably be so grateful to dump their junk that they'll let you keep the proceeds. Use the money to buy a dining room table or other big-ticket item.

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TAKE A ROAD TRIP TO IKEA
Swedish modern at affordable prices. Need we say more?

Courtesy of IKEA

BUY TRANSITIONAL PIECES
Use a patio set in your dining room and move it outside after you've bought the real thing. A modern daybed from West Elm can easily step in for a living room sofa; later, move it to a guest room or office.

Courtesy of West Elm

LABOR FOR GOODS
If you're renting a house or apartment, offer to trade labor for a break on your rent. If you want to refinish the floors or require additional electrical outlets for your technology needs, try to make a deal with your landlord.

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PAINT IT PRETTY
Paint is the cheapest decorating tool, and you can even do it yourself. Nothing brightens a room like a fresh coat of enamel -- choosing a shade other than white is a definite plus.

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BUY ART ON THE CHEAP
Want to display great works of art but don't have enough dough for an original? Old cartography and botanical books are great sources of wall art. Some stores specialize in old art prints; you can also find 'em prints in antique stores or even junk stores. Once they're framed, they look mighty pricey -- you'll be the only one who knows they cost five bucks.

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COVER IT UP
If you have a functioning couch but hate the upholstery, cover it up. Slipcovers are cheap alternatives to reupholstering, which can cost several hundred dollars. Check out some modern styles at RoomandBoard.com. If you can sew, do it yourself; otherwise, ask Mom, Grandma, or another skilled tailor to help you make classy covers for your declasse furniture.

Courtesy of Room & Board

PUT YOUR GIFTS TO WORK
Remember that stuff you registered for? If you've got it, flaunt it! Break out those handblown candleholders from Crate and Barrel -- even if it's just dinner for two.

Courtesy of Crate and Barrel