Creating a Unique Design on a BUDGET

I’ve always loved finding a good deal but since starting my first One Room Challenge, I’ve learned so much about not only finding the most affordable decor; but how to find affordable decor while also creating a unique & collected looking design.

I love Target as much as the next girl (probably even more) but I’ve found that whenever I find awesome Target clearance decor, there’s a very good chance that every other person on Instagram has also found it! And suddenly my space starts feeling less and less unique. (Totally not saying that I’ll ever quit Target clearance or Target in general— just making more of an effort to mix it in with other things!) Keep scrolling for some tips on how to decorate on a budget!

Instead of going to a big box store for shelf decor or baskets, I’ve started beginning my search at Goodwill! It has definitely become my go to spot for random shelf accessories and nice baskets. Almost all of the pieces I’ve found were under $5!

If you need solid colored pillow covers, definitely go to IKEA! They have so many different color options for under $10— also their down pillow inserts are amazing! I also always go to IKEA for curtains. They’re usually about $20-$30 for a pair AND they’re long enough to hang high! I always end up cutting a couple inches off the bottoms and then using hem tape to give it a finished edge.

I broke down the stores I’ve been going to the most and what I go to them for:

Goodwill:
-Shelf styling accents (pottery, bowls, vases)
-Baskets
-Furniture (VERY hit or miss but when you do find something, it’s usually less than $20)

IKEA:
-Curtains
-Solid colored pillow covers
-Pillow inserts
-Light fixtures
-Wall frames
-Wall hooks
-Wall shelves
-Plant pots

HomeGoods / TJ Maxx
-Throw pillows (definitely your best bet to find cool, patterned pillows)
-Throw blankets
-Kitchen decor (wood cutting boards, dish towels, little bowls, etc)
-Big artificial plants
-Mirrors
-Bedding

I love stores like HomeGoods because their inventory is constantly changing and you’re less likely to see your decor in everyone else’s home. Another thing I’ve been doing is going through the furniture and decor we have stored away in the basement and selling things on Facebook Marketplace. Clearing out clutter AND getting some extra spending cash?? WIN/WIN!

I haven’t been to any estate sales yet, but I know that they can be another great resource for budget decorating! You can find upcoming estate sales in your area by googling “estate sales + your zip code”. They usually have photos of everything that will be for sale, so you’re not going in blind.

Those are all my latest secrets for decorating on a budget! I’d love to hear of any other places you guys love, let me know in the comments!