Upgrade your living room for less

When the atmosphere gets stale at home, there are several easy ways to make improvements. One of the most popular rooms to refresh is the living room or family room. This makes perfect sense because it is one of the places that families spend the most time together. Changing the look of the room can bring a family closer together because the room feels more welcoming with fresh decor. Sometimes redecorating a room can bring renewed creativity and inspiration to family and friends.

Make accessories One of the most cost-efficient ways to redecorate a room is to make some of the artwork. The great thing about this option is that it allows the homeowner to customize the decor to their preferences. Using creative techniques like painting pottery, making abstract art, and embellishing items is a fun way to make the space unique.

Buy from hardware stores An easy way to change the feel of a room is by changing out hardware on cabinets, doors and windows. Using sliding door hardware on French doors and sliding patio doors is a quick way to begin a room remodel. Hardware is easy to buy in bulk and most pieces are simple to assemble. A screwdriver and a pair of pliers are the only tools necessary to install door handles and locks.

Get creative with linens Using fleece fabric, sheets and curtains to make throw pillows is the perfect way to freshen up a room. Bold patterns add a pop of color that can complement the overall design.

Shop at second-hand stores Thrift stores, yard sales and flea markets are the perfect places to find household items and decor at a low price. Often many new items are sold with the original tags and packaging and gives you a chance to try the design before committing a large amount of money to a remodeling project.

Trade with friends When friends are thinking about changing the look of their decor, offering to switch items is a great way to redecorate for free. Adding sequins to throw pillows or putting tassels on curtains lets each person change details while keeping the style of the decor. (This option works best when the two room designs are opposites).

Upgrade dollar store décor Adding feathers, crystals or buttons to dollar store pieces is a great way to liven up a room and give it some style. Trimming pillows with satin ribbons or sewing buttons in a pattern can make a simple item look like a designer item. Buying clear glass vases and adding colorful stones is another idea.