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Decorating your home on a budget Posted On 11 September 2019

Upcycle

If you’re on a budget or just can’t quite get rid of furniture, simply because you want to create a new look – upcycling could be the answer. You can find so much inspiration on the likes of Pinterest, which show how easy it can be to change a tired and dated piece of furniture into something new. For example, sanding down a pine chest of drawers and then painting it to your new colour scheme is relatively easy and cheap to do. Add some new handles, and they will be transformed. There is so much information out there on the internet to guide you through, step by step. So, get searching and release your creativity!

Freecycle sites

If you really feel that upcycling is not for you, but want to keep your budget to a minimum, scour online sites which offer a range of items, such as storage, tables and chairs, for free! Sites such as www.freecycle.org/browse/UK are great and work on the premise that having taken advantage of your freebie, that you do the same for something that you no longer require. Membership is free, and everything posted must be free, legal and appropriate for all ages. The Freecycle Network® is made up of 5,000+ groups with over 9 million members across the globe. It’s a non-profit movement of people who give– and get – items for free in their own towns, which helps keep good stuff out of landfills. And if you do have a creative streak, freecycle sites are ideal if you’re on the hunt for something to transform and give a new lease of life to!

Charity shop

Second hand doesn’t have to mean settling for second best. Sometimes the best finds can be discovered in a charity shop! Hunt out where to find charity shops in your area that have household items on offer, such as British Heart Foundation and Cancer Research. Not only could you find the perfect item for your home, you’ll be supporting a great cause along the way!

Auctions

Online auctions, like eBay, have become increasingly popular for grabbing a bargain. Search for items available in your area to avoid large postage charges for heavier items. Alternatively, why not attend a locally held auction to help give you inspiration? Be aware of any commission that you may need to pay to the auction house on any winning bids. Some great bargains are to be had if you’re willing to look and wait for the right pieces to come along – and at the right price!

Do it yourself

Commonly known as DIY! If you want to help keep costs down further and you’re handy with a hammer, then carrying out home improvements yourself could be the answer. Remember though: always consult the professionals when it comes to knocking down walls, installing plumbing or new electrics. Statistics compiled by NHS Digital show that during 12 months from March 2017, 4,831 admissions to NHS hospitals in England were made as a result of injuries from drills and other power tools, while from the same period, 6,489 admissions were made from falls from a ladder!

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