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knew a couple who planned a 12 month stay in Melbourne. Not wanting to go to the expense of buying furniture for their short stay, they managed to recycle everything they needed for their home, except for their bed. Most of the items they found were left on the grass verges from people moving out of their rented accommodation.

They found lamps, bedside tables, shelving, comfy chairs, and a TV stand, along with outdoor furniture and even an outside heater. They did such a wonderful job making each individual find into their own style.

This goes to show you that you can decorate your home on a budget if you are prepared to upcycle and use a bit of imagination and some hard work.

If you are stuck for ideas, scan the internet where you will find endless inspiration and ideas.

IFurniture

They call it brown furniture. Items our parents had that were made of solid wood, but everything was brown. That is where paint and some imagination can transform the most boring pieces of furniture into something quite trendy or lavish, with a finishing of gold leaf! Even a change of hardware can turn an ugly duckling into a swan.

Window coverings

One handy skill to learn is to make curtains or blinds. It will save you so much money when it comes to sorting window coverings. It is even worth checking to see if there any night classes in your area. Pre-owned curtains can be remade into roman blinds and if you prefer wooden slated blinds, watch for sales or people selling theirs.

Style

You will be amazed at how you can brighten up that old couch with the addition of some snazzy looking cushions, a nicely folded blanket or even a sheepskin. (Mind you will have to probably fight off the cat or dog for the sheepskin).

Old cabinets can have doors removed, wallpaper can be added to the back of the cabinet and a lick of paint will transform drab into fab! Baskets can make great interesting looking storage and even be used as light shades.

Old books

I have a collection of old books with the most vibrant front covers. The spines are like a work of art and to me they are like a single piece of artwork when displayed. I have also seen old books tightly bound with gardener’s string and used as a knife block in the

kitchen.

Stacked with a wooden chopping board on top will make you a wonderful side table. Making a reading nook somewhere in your home is always a fun thing to do for both adults and children.

Wooden pallets

I have seen endless ideas for outside furniture using old pallets. The couple from Melbourne turned one into a wall shelf for their home. They whitewashed it and it housed their

treasures. Make sure you use

Wooden boxes can make a great storage unit, old baked bean tins can be painted and turned into vases, old window frames can be made into organisers and message boards, old mirrors can make wonderful table centre pieces by placing a handful of candles in the centre of the mirror, and on a final note, remember paint is your friend!