RICHMOND —
Over the past few years, home decorating and do-it-yourself projects have exploded in popularity.
With less money to spend on vacations and traveling, consumers are opting to improve the value and comfort of their homes.
In tough economic times, people are looking for ways to stretch their paycheck.
Families that may have sold their homes and moved to bigger houses a few years ago are reworking the spaces they have. More people than ever are willing to work on their own homes and use their creativity to improve their living spaces.
If you have been considering re-decorating and tackling some simple home improvements, then sign up for “Decorating on a Dime,” to be offered on Monday, March 25, at 1 p.m., at the Madison County Extension Education Center, 230 Duncannon Lane, Richmond.
Tammy Howard, Estill County extension agent, will share some ideas for updating your surroundings with new colors, new arrangements, a few new accessories and perhaps even a new or refurbished piece of furniture.
These changes can help you maintain your investment in your home and increase the amount of enjoyment your family will have spending time at home.
Think again if you want a new look, but feel dollars and time are standing in your way. Many choices make an impact without crashing your budget or demanding large amounts of time.
Start by developing a sense of creativity. Watch for ways to use ordinary, everyday things. Collect ideas by clipping ideas from magazines and newspapers. Watch TV shows. Don’t try to carbon copy ideas, instead adapt ideas to your style and add a new twist.
Develop do-it-yourself skills. The more you can do yourself, the less expensive your project will be.
Watch for sale items and bargains. Thrift stores are great places to find treasures and supplies for your projects. Plan ahead so you will know what you need when you see it and won’t buy unnecessary items.
Streamline what you have. Can it be used in your new plan? Can it be recycled or up-cycled?
If not, store sell, give away or find new places to use items no longer needed. You may even be able to make money to purchase your new items by selling the old.
Think timeless and classic. Ideas and items that are too trendy are soon outdated. Recognize the difference between flash and flair. Remember that comfort is the ultimate luxury!
Classic, comfortable decorating has a rich feeling and is a long-term investment.
For additional ideas and tips, sign up for the Decoration on a Dime class by calling 859-623-4072. The class is free and open to the public, but be sure to call so we will have enough handouts ready.
Educational programs of the Cooperative Extension Service serve all people regardless of race, color, age, sex, religion, disability or national origin.
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