Today more than ever, folks are interested in turning their homes into sanctuaries; beautiful spaces filled with fantastic items where they can unwind, de-stress and just enjoy family. However, making our spaces look just the way we want them to can be expensive, especially if you have a taste for luxury items. Recycling and “flipping” items can be the perfect way to fill your home with the things you love and still save money. Plus, recycled and antique items are all the rage these days, so you can save money and have a chic, beautiful home.
Look for Hot Fashion Trends
The first thing you want to do is identify the look you want – the style that expresses your personality and style. Whether it's a gorgeous French Country look or a funky, retro style, identify staples that you can create to achieve the look you want. For instance, shabby chic styles demand thick white throw pillows, tables and shelves with that chippy-paint antique look, wire and wicker baskets, and vintage rose or floral prints. Visit stores that sell items in this style and create a list of the things you want or need in your home. Make a note of the price if you want to be impressed by yourself later. 😉
Analyze Your Existing Items
Now it's time to take a look at the things you have to determine whether any of them can be flipped into the style you want. Don't limit yourself, either. For instance, if you're redecorating your living room, don't just look at your living room furniture for possibilities. Look at everything you own. A suitcase in the back of your closet that once belonged to your grandma suddenly becomes a very chic coffee table when you add some legs and perhaps a coat of paint. A stack of frames in your garage can become the focal pieces to your new gallery wall. Stay open-minded through this process!
Visit Thrift Stores, Yard Sales and Flea Markets
These are the rich gardens that seasoned recyclers and flippers harvest their best items from. You'd be surprised at the amazing items you can find for very little money. Again, keep your mind open when looking at items because anything can be recreated. For instance, i fell in love with the look of recycled boat wood furniture, but it can be pretty expensive. This reclaimed boat wood TV tray available at WayFair is priced at $255 and some change.
I purchased a set of 4 TV trays for $20 and painted them myself using super easy distressed wood techniques. I accomplished the same look (and got 3 additional tables) and saved $235!
Just remember that nearly anything can be painted, and with a little research, you can make something look just the way you want it. Even old canvases can be covered in decorative scrapbook paper with Modge Podge and take on a whole new life! Also, items that wouldn't necessarily go in a certain room or be used for a certain purpose shouldn't be overlooked. Even something as simple as an old window can be flipped into an amazing home decor element.
When you use your talent, imagination and creativity, you can achieve the look you want without spending a fortune. Let us know what you think in the comments below – do you have the patience to recycle and flip items? What's your favorite home decor style?
