Especially with the economy in its current state, there is more interest than ever in decorating on a budget. The good news is that there are many ways to save money when you are updating your home’s design, and when you reuse and recycle, you frequently end up with a one of a kind design. Flea markets and thrift stores are always a great source for great and affordable finds, and discount stores can also offer some wonderful deals. But when you are getting something at a deep discount, make sure that it is worth what you are paying. Sometimes, even though something is cheap, it is not a good deal.

Listen to your Gut

Frequently when you find that perfect accessory at a flea market, you instantly know it. Do not second-guess yourself. If you love it, and it works; then go with it. If you have a hesitation about an item, listen to yourself. Frequently the hesitation is because something about the item is just not right. It is close, but not right. So make sure that whatever the issue is will not be a deal breaker, and if it is then even if the item is a screaming deal you do not need it.

Quality First

Always shop for quality. The true bargain is when you find a real, quality piece for a big discount. If you get a great discount, but the item is little better than trash, you really did not do yourself any favors. So when you are re-purposing furniture, make sure that it has good bones. Look for solid wood, and think carefully if you find veneer. Sometimes, you will find an item that is good quality but damaged. Sometimes you can repair this type of item, and other times you can re-purpose the good portion of it. Just remember that as you are bargain hunting, you are looking for quality.

Keep a Binder of Samples

If you are using flea market finds to redecorate a room, it is a good idea to have a sample book to bring along. In your book you will want your scaled room layout, photos of existing furnishings, color samples, notepaper, a pen and a ruler or tape measure. That way when you find something at a flea market that looks like it will work, you can take a lot of the guess work out of the equation by knowing that it is at least the right size and color.

Remember to Negotiate

Another great thing about shopping at thrift stores and flea markets is that you can look for the best price. Frequently vendors are not only open to negotiation, but they actually expect it. So if you find an item that you think is perfect for your room at a flea market, but it is too expensive, simply make an offer. Even if the offer is turned down, sometimes if you swing by at the end of the day and the item is still there, your price starts looking good. Decorating on a budget can be an adventure, and it will eventually yield a beautiful room.

While looking for an opportunity in decorating Angela Glancy found herself working with http://www.americanartisanart.com/ where she developed her own unique style for metal wall art and contemporary metal wall art.

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