I recently received an email from a reader. She posed this question about decorating on a budget:
“Hi Kate,
I love reading your blog… I’m always in awe of folks such as yourself, who have the vision to see what a battered old object can become with some paint, new fabric, ingenuity, what have you…
My question is, do you start with a completed plan for whatever room you are making over? Or do you see used objects and build the room from your vision of what they could become?
I fear I will just come home with a bunch of used objects that have no place or cohesive feel in my home, no matter what I do with a can of spray paint.
Thanks, D”
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That was a great! I totallu agree with #3. Thanks!
I totally agree that you need to view things with an open mind.
A piece of furniture may have a truely UGLY finish on it, but look at the bones and the lines of the piece. Is it sturdy, well made?
If so try to envision what it could be with a little work.
Great post, very informative. It’s always important to remember some of the basics. I am using more white and neutral than every before, I find it very pretty and so easy to mix and match with other things. Great post. Hugs, Marty
Ever since your blog, I’ve really opened my eyes to “another man’s junk” theory and I found a piece of furniture that looks identical to the dresser I had been wanting at West Elm ($800). It’s original purpose was as a china cabinet. I was open minded to the possibility of making it my dresser. I’m so thrilled I did as it is only $150. Now, all it needs is a little lovin from me and it’ll be good as new!!
Awesome post, I am trying to stay open minded…I have never been a second hand girl and I’m starting to love it! Your blog is great, and the new design is wonderful!
Wonderful point about accepting the room will never be ‘done’. I get very anxious about the time it’s taking to inject some style into our home, whereas Beloved Husband is much more Zen-like and points out the fun of the journey rather than the destination…
Thanks! Some very clear and helpful recommendations! — D.
Hi Kate! Your great posts always inspire me. I added a your article to our blog: http://nestedandinvested.blogspot.com/2009/05/sunday-op-ed.html#links
Keep up the great work!
I wholeheartedly aggree w/ all of your points!! A room truly is never done, as our tastes evolve. But seeing the potential in something is EVERYTHING!
I feel like some high-end designer rooms lack the personal touch, so I get giddy when I see a well-done room/projects by spectacular “normal” folks like you. =]
I agree fully! This is a great post that deserves some attention! Have you heard of Happy To Design? Cherie hosts a party every Sunday, named Sunday Favorites. It’s an opportunity for older posts to be revisited again.
Blessings,
Shanna
I have bookmarked this page for reference as I am absolutely hopeless at envisioning a space. I’m hoping to develop a better eye be subscribing to your blog. Thanks!
I have your page bookmarked and thoroughly read it daily. I just love all of your ideas but I am still confused as to how you did your no sew valance. The directions were a little unclear. Do you have another that you did that you could explain?