Recently I moved into my first apartment—I was over the moon excited to decorate and make this new space my own. That was until I realized how expensive home decor can be. All the tips I could find for decorating on a budget required some form of re-purposing pieces you already have. Two problems there; I did’t have any pieces to re-purpose and even if I did I don’t have time to re-purpose things. So I got inventive instead. I have compiled all my favorite tips and tricks that I used to decorate my space on a budget.

1. Paint

A simple coat of paint can completely transform a space. Not only will painting make a space feel fresh it will set a new tone as well. Paint is fairly inexpensive to buy—you don’t have to buy designer paint pick an inexpensive paint in any color that calls to you. If you’re on an extremely tight budget, simply paint a single accent wall or better yet paint your front door.

2. Pillows

This is by far my favorite way to reinvent a space. A lot of people will say that decorating with pillows is not inexpensive, but those people just haven’t looked hard enough. Of course if you purchase throw pillows from Anthropoloie they are going to be expensive but I’m here to tell you that the $5 throw pillow from Walmart is just as comfortable. If you already have throw pillows lying around purchase pillow covers; I have found some great ones on Amazon ranging from $2-$10. Pillows are the perfect crossbreed of functionality and fashion.

3. Light up Jugs & Jars

This is a simple and adorable way to light up a space. You can find the necessary items, a string of lights and a clear jar or jug, nearly anywhere. My favorite place to find jugs and jars is the thrift store, this is where you will likely find one that is more unique. All you have to do to accomplish this fun look is to put a string of lights, floss or Christmas, in the jar then let it glow. This is a great and fun way to light up an area with little expense.

4. Hang Plates

This sounds obscure but if done well is so charming. To accomplish this all you have to do is find a smattering of plates—different sizes, patterns, even shapes and hang them on the wall. The only requirement is to make sure that each and every plate complement one another. You can hang these plates above a mantel, on a large empty wall or an entryway. If you search for plates that are unique but inexpensive, I’m talking thrift store here, this look will transform a room with little cost and effort.

5. Make a Wall Collage

This can be done in so many ways with such little cost. You can find unique picture frames at the thrift store and there are several free printouts on the Internet. Your wall collage can include picture of friends and family or simply random printouts. The greatest part about a wall collage is that there really aren’t any guidelines. They can be scattered and random or meaningful and organized, the choice is yours.

There are several easy and inexpensive ways to decorate a home without re-purposing pieces you already own. These were just a few of my favorite ways I decorate but there are so many more ways. You can also search around for inexpensive home decor items; you just need to find the right places.