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Since the calendar turned to 2024, the internet has been abuzz with trend reports and home decor predictions that offer a glimpse into what lies ahead in the world of interior design.
For many, these lists may seem overwhelming, especially if you’re not planning to embark on a full-scale renovation this year. But fret not; there are simpler ways to elevate your home by getting creative with a DIY project or two.
Below, we’ll introduce you to 7 home trends experts predict will be big in 2024 and the DIY projects that can help you breathe new life into your living spaces.
DIY Projects That Will Elevate Your Home
Get your toolbox ready. From textured walls to living walls, home renovation experts predict these DIY projects are exactly what you need to elevate your home in 2024.
1. Using reclaimed materials
As more and more of us aspire to make eco-friendly home improvements in 2024, it’s no surprise that using reclaimed and recycled materials is gaining popularity among DIY enthusiasts.
Beyond their environmental benefits, reclaimed and salvaged materials bring a distinctive ‘well-loved’ quality that enriches interior designs with texture and depth. The weathered patina of reclaimed wood, for instance, can seamlessly enhance a home with a modern rustic style, while salvaged fireplaces and reclaimed bricks effortlessly complement modern farmhouse aesthetics. These materials possess a timeless charm, making them an ideal choice for elevating your home’s overall look.
If you’re seeking a quick and manageable DIY project that can be completed in an afternoon, consider exploring your local antique market for a set of vintage drawers and transform them into a unique plant display. Alternatively, give rustic scaffolding boards a fresh lease on life as distinctive kitchen shelves, or reimagine tin ceiling tiles as a one-of-a-kind kitchen backsplash.
For those willing to take on a slightly larger project, a salvaged barn door can be flipped into a statement headboard, and ordinary internal doors and windows can be replaced with antique shutters to achieve a truly bespoke finish.
2. Adding texture to walls
While the memories of popcorn ceilings and orange peel walls might remind you of outdated interior design trends from yesteryears, wall texture is poised to make a stylish comeback in 2024.
Embrace the classic elegance of a knockdown finish or the rustic charm of limewash paint to infuse subtle drama into your walls. For a touch of warmth, consider decorative plasters like stucco or tadelakt. The beauty of these unique finishes is that they can be applied to your walls through a DIY approach using a trowel or roller, making it a cost-effective way to enhance your home’s ambiance.
And remember, texture doesn’t have to be just tactile. There are plenty of ways to introduce visual texture to your walls. Leading industry names like Benjamin Moore are bringing color-washed walls back into the spotlight this year, and even famous figures like Blake Lively are embracing this trend in their own homes.
3. Biophilic home improvements
‘In 2024, biophilic design and creating healthier living spaces are poised to be prominent trends,’ predicts Christine Marvin, Vice President of Strategy & Design at Marvin. To fully embrace this trend, consider decorating with plants, choosing natural color palettes and materials, or increasing natural light in your living areas.
Kriss Swint, design lead at Westlake Royal Building Products, emphasizes the importance of a closer connection with nature and its elements, citing potential benefits like increased well-being and productivity. ‘Growing concerns about wellness and the environment are driving demand for backyard improvements and the integration of nature into design. This includes features like green roofs, large windows, and living walls.’
wooden kitchen cabinetry is predicted to dominate kitchen trends this year.
However, before you jump into a full-scale kitchen remodel, consider that you can revamp this space without breaking the bank by resurfacing or refinishing your existing cabinet fronts.
Rather than reaching for your hammer right away, consider stripping paint from wood cabinets you already have to reveal the material beneath. Alternatively, you can replace your current kitchen cabinet fronts with custom-made ones that perfectly fit your space. Consult a local woodworker for bespoke cabinetry tailored to your kitchen’s dimensions or explore options like preloved wooden cabinet fronts available in salvage yards or online marketplaces.
‘A great DIY hack for achieving premium quality without overspending is using Ikea cabinets combined with custom fronts,’ says Archie Tkachoff, Founder of Arteum.design. ‘This approach is not only cost-effective but also versatile, allowing for the application of custom doors on new and existing cabinets.’
walk-in pantry?
‘In 2024, we expect to see pantries being upgraded with intelligent organization solutions, providing more space and functionality,’ predicts Laurel Vernazza, Home Design Expert at The Plan Collection. ‘When designed with floor-to-ceiling storage, the walk-in pantry can be used to conceal air fryers, coffeemakers, and larger appliances such as dishwashers, with plenty of room for pots and pans, spices, and dry goods’.
Simply clear the kitchen closet and assess its layout. Install adjustable shelving for better storage, add hooks or racks for spices and dried goods, and improve visibility with an overhead light.
2-Tier Stainless Steel Lazy Susan
Butterfly Ginkgo K-Cup Carousel
Royal Check Large Enamel Canister
7. DIY built-in bookshelves
The classic built-in bookshelf remains a popular choice for 2024, and it’s easy to see why. With just a modest amount of DIY expertise, you can easily turn an ordinary bookshelf into a faux built-in feature that instantly elevates your home.
Start by measuring your space and acquiring the right number of standalone bookcases for the job. We recommend options such as Ikea’s Billy bookcase or Wayfair’s Lagner bookcase, as they are well-suited to this task. Securely anchor these bookcases to the wall, ensuring they are level and perfectly aligned.
To achieve that coveted built-in appearance, add a plywood surround, crown molding, or decorative trim that complements your room’s style. After carefully caulking and sanding any rough edges, apply paint or stain to the bookshelves, allowing them to seamlessly blend into their surroundings.
Home renovation trends are typically less transient than paint trends, such as the color of the year, and can significantly improve the aesthetic and functionality of your home.
Source: homesandgardens.com
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2023 has seen some wonderful decorative trends. With the evolution of the ‘Minimaluxe’ movement came a wave of beautiful decorative pieces; in the world of decorative lighting, we’ve seen a renaissance, and we’ve embraced a whole new range of textures and materials. It’s been a great year for decor, so it’s no wonder the interior designers have been doing some serious shopping.
We’ve all got a favorite home purchase of 2023 (mine is my pair of wall sconces that sit above my bed), but the tastemakers’ purchases are really telling of what interior design trends have made an impact and what is here to stay. To find out, I caught up with three of my favorite designers to find out their favorite buys of 2023.
1. Fireplace accessories
If there is one major takeaway from 2023, it’s that we want our homes to be cozier than ever before. A key pillar for coziness is warmth and lighting, both of which are covered by open fires or log fires. Fireplaces have experienced a renaissance, and homeowners are enjoying the opportunity to decorate mantelpieces and purchase fireplace accessories that reinforce the cozy living room aesthetic.
Christoffer Du Rietz of Du Rietz Design.
‘Our new open fireplace was made in a Calacata marble we had saved for five years back and designed with some nice details to match the house. It came just in time for fireplace season. Apart from looking great, it helps a lot when lighting the fire, which is many times a week on cold winter days.’
Jumbo Wicker Log Basket
Log Holder
Wrought Iron Fireplace and Hearth Tool Set
For Melissa Warner Rothblum of Massucco Warner, this sculptured marble vanity box by west elm made a beautiful impact on her living room shelf. ‘I think this little box is so chic and is a lot of bang for the buck,’ she says. ‘It’s also perfect for tucking away keys on an entryway, remote controls, bedroom trinkets, or garage clickers.’
Chelsea Cement Box
Marble Vanity Box
Large Marble Box
Stoneware coffee cups that have that handpainted feel have proved popular, used as decor as well as for a functional kitchen necessity, while interior designer Corinne Mathern takes pride in the pair of glass espresso cups she has in her kitchen. ‘One of the best things I bought for under $50 this year was two vintage Art Deco glass espresso cups on a trip to Italy this year. They make my early morning coffee time with my husband really special and they’re so beautiful,’ she says.
Espresso Double Walled Cup
Cast Black Espresso Cup
Material: Stoneware
Price: $11.20
Source: livingetc.com
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“The stockings were hung by the chimney with care…”
Typically, you hang them on the mantle above the fireplace so that when Santa comes down the chimney, he can easily spot them to fill with gifts. But where do you hang stockings without a fireplace? This is a common conundrum for many renters.
Apartments don’t always have a fireplace, which isn’t an issue until the holidays when you’re trying to figure out how to hang your Christmas stockings. Luckily, it’s not really a problem at all! There are several other creative ways to hang your stockings without a fireplace in your apartment where Santa can still easily find them.
1. Stocking holder
Probably the easiest way to hang your stockings is from a stocking holder. These standalone metal or wooden holders are pretty inexpensive and come in lots of fun shapes and sizes.
Or, if you don’t feel like buying a stand specifically for stockings, you can also use a standalone coat rack by your front door. Place it in your living room against a wall near your tree to complete your holiday décor look, thanks to DIY stocking holders!
2. Curtain rod
Source: shareanddoubled.blogspot.com
Add some festive flair to your curtains for the month by hanging your stockings on the rod. Be wary of how much you (or Santa) plan to stuff them, but otherwise, this a great place for them. Working with things you already have in your space makes it easy!
3. Wooden ladder ideas
A small wooden ladder is not only a great décor piece on its own, but it can also hold your stockings. It’s super simple — all you need to do is rest the ladder against the wall, then use string or wire to put the stockings on the different rungs.
This rustic look can stay in your home all year long. When it’s not the holidays, you can use it to hold blankets or plants or just as a simple piece of décor.
4. Hang Christmas stockings on a string
Source: Pinterest
You can also find a spot on a shelf or just on the wall for string, where you can hang your stockings. Just tie a piece of string or ribbon between two spots and voila! You’ve got a place to hang them.
Once the string is up, decorate a few clothes pins to secure your stockings to the string. This is super easy to do and will give a similar look to hanging them from a mantle.
5. Knobs of a drawer or cabinets
Source: Pinterest
Another way of hanging Christmas stockings by utilizing furniture or cabinets you likely already have is to use their knobs. This is a nuisance if it’s a drawer or cabinet you open and close daily, but if you happen to have knobs on something you don’t use every day, this is a cute way to decorate and bring a little Christmas or holiday cheer into places you might not normally have it — like the kitchen or a home office desk.
6. Bedpost or bed frame
Source: pinecornsandacorn.com
Santa can still find your stockings if they’re in the bedroom. Bring some of the holiday spirit into your room by hanging your stockings on your bedpost or from the foot of your bed frame.
You can also take the opportunity to decorate your bed frame even more by adding garland and other decorations so your stocking doesn’t feel lonely.
7. Display Christmas stockings on a bookcase
Source: Pinterest
Especially if you’re a book-lover, hanging stockings from a bookcase (or a bookshelf) can not only look cute, but helps your personality shine through. And you’ll get to look at two things you love at the same time — because who doesn’t love books AND holiday stockings all in the same place?
8. Show off your holiday spirit on the stair rail
Source: Pinterest
If you have stair rails, or any type of railing, in your rental, you can dress it up with your stockings. After all, there’s not much else you can do with your rails. You can easily tie stockings onto open places in the railing with string or craft wire and it won’t leave any damage behind!
And if you don’t want the string you use to hang them up to be visible, you can just hide it by wrapping a garland or festive ribbon around the rails and posts.
9. Windows
Source: Pinterest
You can make your stockings visible from both the inside and the outside by hanging them in your window. Depending on the type of window you have, use craft wire to attach it to part of the window frame.
Or, you can use hooks with a suction cup on them to place them in any spot on the window — no need to worry about damaging any walls!
10. Command hooks
Source: Pinterest
Thanks to our favorite damage-free hooks, you can hang your stockings from almost any wall in your home. Just grab a few command hooks and attach them to the wall where you want to hang them.
And if you’re worried about the white plastic hooks not looking great with your décor, you can use clear command hooks or try a decorative one.
No fireplace? No problem!
There are so many different creative ways to hang your stockings without a fireplace. So get thinking and find even more new ways to hang your stockings with care. Your space will look as festive as ever with these tips!
Source: rent.com
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Graduating college is a big deal. The time you spent in school has likely taught you a lot about the subjects you studied, being organized and meeting deadlines, and life in general. Once you have your degree, you’ll put those skills to good use as you embark on your career and independent life. No more dining hall, no more dorms…it’s time to launch adult life and figure out how to make your own way.
To help you deal with some of the basics (like a job and banking), read on. You’ll find valuable tips to help you through the first steps of post-grad life.
Life After College
Congrats on your degree! Now, on to the next challenge after graduating college. It’s time to tackle adulting, which can include such things as getting set up in your new living situation, finding your favorite brunch spot, and making new friends if your college pals have scattered to different places.
In addition, there are some major daily-life tasks to wrangle:
• Finding and holding a job
• Taking control of your health and your health insurance
• Keeping your brain active, which may lead to more studies
• Managing your money.
Read on to get some helpful advice on these last four topics (you can probably find the best brunch spot in your new neighborhood without too much help).
💡 Quick Tip: Enjoy no hidden fees and special member benefits when you refinance student loans with SoFi.
Getting to Work
Hopefully you enjoyed a few weeks off post-grad to travel or kick back and relax after four years of hard work. But what to do after college for many people is find work.
When you’re ready to begin your job search, it can be a lot to process. Chances are, it’s time to focus on taking steps towards building your career.
First off, don’t let job searching stress you out. New grads are in luck. Unemployment is low, and the labor market is strong. According to a recent survey by the National Association of Colleges and Employers, companies expected to hire almost 4% more class of 2023 grads than they did from the previous class.
Not sure where to look for work or what you should be earning? Research, network, and research some more.
• Your school’s career services office may provide job leads, and its alumni office may be able to network you with people in your field who can share insights.
• Search for jobs online. There are many job boards, such as Indeed and ZipRecruiter, to access.
• Put out the word among friends, families, past internship supervisors, and others.
• To gain intel on starting salaries, try an online salary calculator. You provide some basic info like your location and experience, and their tool tells you what the average salary for your desired role is. While this tool can only provide an estimate, it may help you determine if you should try to negotiate for a higher salary when you receive a job offer.
Taking Your Health into Your Own Hands
As part of learning how to navigate life on your own, make sure you take the reins of your healthcare. Mom and Dad likely aren’t scheduling those biannual dental checkups for you anymore.
Whether you’re still on your parent’s policy or are buying your own health insurance, getting more familiar with the resources your healthcare plan provides is never a bad idea.
It can help you stay on top of scheduling check ups, dental cleanings, and eye exams. You may also need to learn the ropes of finding in-network doctors as you move to a new place or get your own policy.
And you might want to start saving for any unexpected medical or dental bills that may arise. Having an emergency fund at the ready can be an important step to financial wellness in this new chapter of your life.
Speaking of wellness: You may feel swamped by post-grad life, but it’s such an important time to prioritize your well-being. It might be helpful to make time to go to the gym each week, meditate, cook healthy meals, and get a good night’s sleep. Getting into good health habits is an excellent adulting accomplishment.
💡 Quick Tip: Refinancing could be a great choice for working graduates who have higher-interest graduate PLUS loans, Direct Unsubsidized Loans, and/or private loans.
Continuing Your Learning
It’s normal after college to need a little break from learning. For the first time in your life, there is no one telling you what to read or what classes you have to take. But once the dust has settled and you’ve had a rest from hitting the books, you might try to prioritize learning. Not only does it keep your brain sharp, it can also help boost your career.
For example, you could consider obtaining a professional license related to your career or industry. According to the most recent intel from the Bureau of Labor Statistics, 24% of workers have some sort of professional license or certification. Having one may give you a competitive boost at work or while job searching. You can go the extra mile to develop more skills needed in your career through an online class or professional conference.
What’s more, additional learning and training could lead to a profitable side hustle or gig work. For instance, you might be able to pick up extra cash during tax season supporting professional tax preparers.
Learning-wise, not all of what you do after graduation has to go towards career advancement, of course. Take that cool history of film class at your local community college. Join a book club or just load up your bookshelf with books you’re dying to read. Exploring your passions can help you feel motivated, fulfilled, and inspired. Now is the time in your life to open doors, not close them.
Recommended: What Should I Do After My Master’s Degree?
Getting Your Finances Organized
Once you graduate from college and join the working world, it’s likely time to look at whether your current banking partner suits your needs.
It can be a wise move to look for a bank that offers a good interest rate on your deposits, convenient access, and tools that help you track your money in a quick and convenient way.
As you organize your money (and don’t forget to start that emergency fund mentioned above), you may realize that one expense that may really be bringing you down is your student loan debt payments.
The average federal student loan debt is currently $37,338, according to the Education Data Initiative. Is student loan debt weighing you down? There are a few strategies you can use to help pay off your student loan debt quicker. You might start your journey to a student loan-free life by creating a monthly budget that can help you get out of debt.
• To create a budget that can assist with paying off debt, you could start by gathering all of your bills and recent receipts. Review exactly what you need to spend on necessary living expenses (rent, food, health insurance, minimum debt payments), how much you are spending on the wants in life (travel, entertainment, clothing), and how much you can save or put toward additional debt payment.
• There are different budgeting methods, and it’s a good idea to spend a bit of time finding the one that works for you. For instance, you might like the 50/30/20 budget rule, which says to allocate 50% of your take-home pay to necessities, 30% to wants, and 20% to savings and extra debt payoff.
Whichever technique you choose, do compare the cost of your living expenses to your paystubs to see how much you can afford to pay towards debt each month. Creating a budget can help you not only pay off your debt, but avoid accumulating more debt in the future.
Recommended: Which Debt to Pay Off First: Student Loan or Credit Card?
The Takeaway
Once you have your monthly budget under control, you might be considering refinancing your student loans as part of how you navigate life post-college. You may be able to lower your interest rate, lower your monthly payments by extending your repayment term, or release a co-signer from a previous loan.
Do note that lengthening your repayment term can increase the interest you’ll pay throughout the life of your loan.
Refinancing comes with many benefits, but keep in mind that you lose federal benefits and protections when you refinance federal loans with a private lender. But if you are not planning on taking advantage of these benefits, refinancing might be for you.
Looking to lower your monthly student loan payment? Refinancing may be one way to do it — by extending your loan term, getting a lower interest rate than what you currently have, or both. (Please note that refinancing federal loans makes them ineligible for federal forgiveness and protections. Also, lengthening your loan term may mean paying more in interest over the life of the loan.) SoFi student loan refinancing offers flexible terms that fit your budget.
With SoFi, refinancing is fast, easy, and all online. We offer competitive fixed and variable rates.
SoFi Student Loan Refinance
If you are a federal student loan borrower, you should consider all of your repayment opportunities including the opportunity to refinance your student loan debt at a lower APR or to extend your term to achieve a lower monthly payment. Please note that once you refinance federal student loans you will no longer be eligible for current or future flexible payment options available to federal loan borrowers, including but not limited to income-based repayment plans or extended repayment plans.
SoFi Loan Products
SoFi loans are originated by SoFi Bank, N.A., NMLS #696891 (Member FDIC). For additional product-specific legal and licensing information, see SoFi.com/legal. Equal Housing Lender.
Non affiliation: SoFi isn’t affiliated with any of the companies highlighted in this article.
Financial Tips & Strategies: The tips provided on this website are of a general nature and do not take into account your specific objectives, financial situation, and needs. You should always consider their appropriateness given your own circumstances.
Third-Party Brand Mentions: No brands, products, or companies mentioned are affiliated with SoFi, nor do they endorse or sponsor this article. Third-party trademarks referenced herein are property of their respective owners.
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Source: sofi.com
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Inside: Balancing a shoestring budget is possible and provides great rewards. With savings and budget strategies, you will find genius tips to manage your finances smartly!
With the rise of economic inflation, a growing number of people are finding the need for shoestring budgets to effectively navigate through their expenses.
Whether it’s planning for a low-cost holiday, initiating a frugal home makeover, or launching a start-up business with minimalist funds, the concept of a shoestring budget comes into play.
Moreover, it’s not only limited to low-income families but also extends to larger households and entrepreneurs that need to strategically lessen costs to achieve their goals. This is how many people reach financial independence sooner.
Then, let’s talk about a shoestring budget – an effective tool used to stretch finite resources, manage money wisely, and achieve financial goals, all while minimizing expenses.
If you’re familiar with the feeling of every dollar in your wallet counting, then this blog post is for you.
This post may contain affiliate links, which helps us to continue providing relevant content and we receive a small commission at no cost to you. As an Amazon Associate, I earn from qualifying purchases. Please read the full disclosure here.
What is a Shoestring Budget?
A ‘shoestring budget’ means to accomplish a task or a project within a very limited or bare minimum budget. The shoestring budget work strategy involves curbing discretionary spending dramatically to take care of high-priority expenses.
Understood across various contexts like travel, events, and lifestyle, the term implies an approach of resourcefulness and discovery of low-cost alternatives to achieve desired results.
Not exclusive to households with low incomes, working with a shoestring budget expresses the art of making what’s deemed impossible possible, navigating time constraints, and maximizing minimal available funds.
Shoestring Budget Idiom Definition
According to Merriam-Webster, the official definition of a shoestring budget is: 1
“involving a relatively small amount of money for planned spending.”
‘Shoestring Budget’ Origin
The phrase ‘shoestring budget’ has an intriguing origin story that dates back to the 1800s in the United States. Fact-checks reveal that this term is indeed a reference to the precarious nature of a thin and weak shoestring, metaphorically implying a scarce and strained budget.2
Several theories have been proposed regarding its original use.
- One theory suggests that the term ‘shoestring gambler,’ meaning someone gambling with a limited budget, might be the precursor to the idiom.
- Another theory, based on British history, suggests that prisoners would lower a shoestring out of their cell to collect small donations from passersby, symbolizing the idea of managing with few resources.
Despite the debates around the phrase’s exact origins, it is undisputed that it signifies a tight budget situation.
How to live on a shoestring budget?
Living on a shoestring budget can be challenging but doable with a bit of dedication and planning.
- Start by reviewing your regular expenses per month.
- Cut down on unnecessary expenses as much as possible.
- Monitor your small, daily expenses as they can add up significantly over time.
- Refinance any existing debt to reduce interest payments.
- Renegotiate contracts with utility providers, subscription services (consider uninstalling unused ones), or insurance for better rates.
- Shop at thrift stores or choosing used items over brand new can also help you save.
The key to surviving a shoestring budget is self-control and determination to avoid impulsive spending.
Your goal is to prioritize essential needs over wants – a no spend challenge will help you with this. Remember, regular tracking and analysis of your personal site usage can provide valuable insights to manage your budget better.
How to travel on a shoestring budget?
Embarking on an adventure while on a shoestring budget requires creativity and pre-planning.
- Be flexible with your travel dates, destinations, and mode of transport to take advantage of the best deals available.
- Consider options such as budget airlines, off-peak travel times, and less touristy locations.
- Staying in budget accommodations, or even trying out housesitting, can significantly cut down your lodging costs.
- Eating at local fresh markets rather than restaurants will not only save you money but also provide a more authentic experience.
- Plan your daily activities; consider free local events, parks, and attractions.
- Always carry a water bottle to avoid buying expensive drinks.
With careful planning, traveling on a shoestring budget can make your journey all the more rewarding and memorable.
How to Save Money on a shoestring budget?
Saving money while on a shoestring budget might appear challenging, but it’s not impossible. Begin by monitoring your expenditures and identifying areas where you can potentially save money. Also, consider substituting costly activities with more affordable or free ones.
Every small action counts when you’re on a shoestring budget, and these savings accumulate over time. Remember, consistent small savings can make a significant difference in the long run.
Starting a business on a shoestring budget
Starting a business on a shoestring budget requires careful financial planning and innovative thinking. Indeed, it may sound challenging, but numerous shoestring startups have surged to success by optimizing their business budgets. It is all about crafting a solid business plan that clearly delineates your budget and the efficient utilization of each dollar.
Maintain focus on essential expenses only. These expenses might include mandatory licenses, essential software for business operations, or even crucial industry-specific tools. Leverage your personal and professional networks for free advice and resources.
Also, make the most of free or low-cost online marketing strategies as these can be vital to shoestring business budgets. You can use effective strategies, like using different social media platforms for marketing or creating a blog, to broaden the reach of your business.
Remember, having the capital to start is important but it’s secondary to a truly novel idea, intense hard work, and a strategic approach. So, let your creativity thrive and work passionately towards growing your business.
Shoestring Budget Examples
- Shoestring Vacation
- Wedding or Honeymoon
- Home Improvement
- Business on a Shoestring Startups
- Savings Goals
- Financing your Next Car
A shoestring budget is not always related to bigger projects. It can also refer to the scenario where the money required for daily expenses, buying an item, or completing a project isn’t enough. Here, the person has to be creative and find ways to stretch the money to make ends meet.
Practical Tips for Surviving on a Shoestring Budget
In this section, we will present practical advice for managing a shoestring budget, derived from case studies of my readers and my own personal experience who have thrived despite financial limitations.
Whether you are budgeting on a low income or looking to reach FI number faster, this guide has you covered.
1. Starting with a Budget: Your First Step
Before you embark on your journey of living on a shoestring budget, the first step is to define a realistic budget.
- Understand your total earnings and list all your monthly expenses.
- Identify which expenses are necessary (rent, utilities, groceries) and which are discretionary (eating out, entertainment).
- Now create a spending plan such that it covers all necessities, allocates some amount towards savings, and leaves a little for leisure.
A well-defined budget will be your roadmap to financial management success.
Remember, the goal is to live within your means but also to ensure you aren’t depriving yourself.
2. Make Saving Automatic
A proven way to save money on a shoestring budget is to make saving automatic.
In such a method, you can set up an automatic transfer when you get paid. Another idea is to use Acorns, which rounds up purchases made with your debit card to the nearest dollar and deposits the change daily into your savings account.
Essentially, you’re saving without even noticing it! These little amounts add up over a period and can really bolster your savings.
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3. Cut Back on Expenses
One of the most effective ways to operate within a shoestring budget is by reducing expenses. These can be small lifestyle changes, like cutting back on takeaways and preparing meals at home, walking or cycling instead of driving short distances or canceling unused subscriptions.
Specifically, you are looking to cut back your flexible expenses the most.
4. Look for Ways to Make Extra Money
Alongside cutting back on expenses, we continually stress the importance of finding ways to supplement your income. This could be from a side hustle, passive income, part-time job, or even a pay raise.
This additional income can help ease pressure on your shoestring budget. Also, it might provide an opportunity to explore new interests or passions. By diversifying your income streams, you make your financial situation more secure and flexible in unexpected circumstances.
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5. Utilize Free Resources
When it comes to saving money on a shoestring budget, the key is to utilize free resources and focus on essentials before spending money.
Thankfully, there are many vital ways to do this:
- Find free things to do without spending money.
- Use your local Buy Nothing group to find items before spending your hard-earned cash.
- Learn and enhance your skills through free or low-cost online platforms like Udemy, Coursera, and YouTube.
Leveraging such resources can have a significant impact on your budget, leading to substantial savings for other meaningful expenses.
6. Look for Deals and Coupons
Another wise strategy when operating on a shoestring budget is seeking out deals and using coupons whenever possible. This game-changing approach can be applied to your grocery budget, dining, clothing purchases, and even travel.
Search for coupons in newspapers, magazines, or on coupon websites. Perhaps, subscribe to newsletters from your favorite retailers, a move that will provide straightforward access to information about sales and discount codes. Be mindful while shopping online or in stores, and always remember to rein in impulses, checking for any available discounts before purchasing.
Moreover, take advantage of holiday sales or Amazon Prime Day for larger purchases. Taking a little extra time to hunt for the best deals can significantly cut down your expenses and help you stick to your shoestring budget.
7. Utilize Household Resources
Leveraging what you already have in your household is another fantastic way to save money.
- For instance, before running to the grocery store, take stock of what’s in your pantry and design meals around these items.
- Also, consider repurposing and upcycling household items. An old ladder can turn into a chic bookshelf; jars can be used for storage.
- Optimizing utility usage by switching off lights when not in use and limiting water usage can also reduce bills.
Start treating everything in your house as a resource with a specific purpose and value, including leftover food, old clothes, and used furniture. Every household item utilized efficiently can add up to visible savings over time.
8. Get Rid of Unnecessary Expenses
Perhaps the most crucial aspect of managing a shoestring budget is identifying and eliminating unnecessary expenses. These could include subscriptions to magazines or online services that you hardly use, dining out frequently, or buying expensive coffee daily.
Analyze where your money is going every month. You’d be surprised how the smallest changes can have a big impact on your budget. Eliminating even a few unnecessary monthly expenses can add up to substantial yearly savings.
Remember, the key is not to deprive yourself of everything but to find that balance between living comfortably and within your means.
9. Reduce Your Monthly Rent or Mortgage Payment
Want to slash a significant expense of your shoestring budget by considering ways to reduce your rent or mortgage payments? Could you move to a more affordable area or a smaller property?
- For homeowners, look at refinancing your mortgage or negotiate better terms, resulting in lower monthly payments. Always remember to check if any fees would apply before proceeding with refinancing.
- If relocation isn’t an option, consider renting out a spare room in your home or offering it on a vacation rental site.
- If you are a renter, look at becoming a permanent housesitter.
Lowering these substantial expenses can make a huge difference in your budget, allowing you to allocate funds to other pressing areas, save, or even invest in building wealth.
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10. Be Creative When Paying Bills
When managing a shoestring budget, it can be helpful to get creative with the way you pay your bills. Sometimes, splitting payments between paychecks or paying on certain days can make managing your budget easier.
You could also consider bill negotiation services or check if you qualify for reduced rates based on your income. If meeting all payments becomes too strenuous, communicate with your service providers about it. They may have hardship programs or payment plans to assist during tough financial periods.
Remember, the key is to avoid late fees or penalties that could further strain your budget.
11. Leverage Technology to Save Time and Money
Make the most of technology to manage your shoestring budget. There are numerous mobile apps and online resources to help you track your expenditures, save money, pay bills, and even invest.
Budgeting apps can help you keep track of your income and expenditure, warn you when you’re nearing your limit, and provide valuable insight into your spending habits. Digital wallets can help you make secure transactions without the fear of losing cash.
Moreover, there are apps and websites to compare prices of different products, get the best deal alerts, apply instant coupons, or even earn cashback like Rakuten.
Quicken
Personal finance and money management software allows you to manage spending, create monthly budgets, track investments, retirement and more.
I have used this platform for over 20 years now.
- Birds-eye view of your complete financial picture.
- Conveniently download your spending activities, and automatically categorize them (Quicken connects to over 14,000 financial institutions).
- Track investments with it’s features like portfolio analytics, retirement goals, and market comparison.
- Little complex to use at first, the learning curve is moderate.
- Yearly subscription-based model to use the platform.
Save 40% on New Memberships
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12. Participate in a Mini Savings Challenge
As a fun and effective way to boost your savings, consider embarking on a mini savings challenge! These challenges break the intimidating concept of saving into manageable, small steps. They can vary based on duration and the amount you’re aiming to save.
For example, in a 52-week challenge, you save $1 in the first week, $2 in the second, and so on, until you’re saving $52 in the 52nd week. By the end of the year, you’ll have saved $1,378!
Not only does it make saving fun, but it also allows you to develop a consistent saving habit, crucial when budgeting on a shoestring.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Key Takeaways: Managing Money Well on a Tight Budget
Managing finances on a shoestring budget can be a daunting task, but with the right strategies in place, it can become a way to achieve financial health.
This is something I did when I was a stay-at-home mom looking for ways to make money.
In the grand scheme of things, managing a shoestring budget is less about the money and more about your mindset. Yes, limited resources can present challenges, but your attitude and creativity can make a difference.
Embracing frugality, taking control of your financial choices, and building resourceful strategies can turn your constraints into opportunities.
Money comes and goes, but the ability to manage it effectively is a life skill that will always be beneficial. The real wealth lies in your ability to live within your means and make the most of what you have – turning your shoestring budget into a stepping stone towards financial independence and stability.
Remember, every journey starts small.
Day by day, these tips can help you improve your financial stability and achieve your goals, regardless of your budget size.
Source
- Merriam-Webster. “on a small/tight/shoestring budget.” https://www.merriam-webster.com/dictionary/on%20a%20small%2Ftight%2Fshoestring%20budget. Accessed December 5, 2023.
- Grammarist. “Shoestring Budget – A Creative Expression for Limited Money.” https://grammarist.com/idiom/on-a-shoestring-and-shoestring-budget/. Accessed December 5, 2023.
Did the post resonate with you?
More importantly, did I answer the questions you have about this topic? Let me know in the comments if I can help in some other way!
Your comments are not just welcomed; they’re an integral part of our community. Let’s continue the conversation and explore how these ideas align with your journey towards Money Bliss.
Source: moneybliss.org
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The next best thing to binge-watching home decor shows is swooning over the pages of home decor books by your favorite designers. Shea McGee, Kelly Wearstler, Jeremiah Brent, Bobby Berk and more are inspiring us with new books about how to live beautifully, colorfully, elegantly, and even on a budget. Gift them to the interior design lovers in your life, use them as a coffee table books, and prepare to be inspired to create a home that inspires joy, creativity, and comfort. Something we can all use these days, right? Enjoy!
The Art of Home: A Designer Guide To Creating An Elevated Yet Approachable Home
We couldn’t wait to get our hands on Shea McGee’s beautiful new decor book, where she shares the details behind her design process, inspires us with swoon-worthy design photos, and takes us through every room of the house to help us transform how we live every day. We love that you can take these ideas and make them your own with vintage or more affordable pieces from her Target collection.
Old Brand New: Colorful Homes for Maximal Living
Right at Home: How Good Design Is Good for the Mind
Queer Eye host Bobby Berk shows you how to make the most of your home to inspire self care, wellness, and inspire happiness in every room. Bobby helps anyone, from studio dwellers to first home buyers, figure out how to define what makes you happy so you can create an authentic design to you (vs. what is popular on IG). He helps with function, comfort and so much style, all in an effort to boost your mood at home.
Kelly Wearstler: Synchronicity
Kelly Wearstler fans unite — this book is chock-full of Wearstler’s unique and mold-breaking designs. She masters pairing luxe materials with fresh colors and forms and mixes styles to perfection. Her bold approach shines through so you can take cues on how to incorporate her wildly elegant ideas at home.
The Space That Keeps You: When Home Becomes a Love Story
Moving from one beautiful home to the next with partner Nate Berkus and their two children, Jeremiah Brent wanted to explore what makes a home a space that keeps you grounded. He guides us through homes around the world — from Mexico to Montecito — that hold memories, emotions, and personal stories. His gorgeous designs are the backdrop to a powerful story of what shapes a home. This book comes out next February, but you can pre-order now!
Star Style: Interiors of Martyn Lawrence Bullard
Martyn Lawrence Bullard’s A-list clients include the Kardashians, Blake Shelton and Gwen Stefani, and Ellen Pompeo. Get a peek inside the homes of Hollywood elite, from Kylie Jenner’s Hidden Hills hideaway to Cher’s Malibu mansion, and refresh your space with a little glamour.
Create: At Home With Old & New
Ali Heath’s follow-up to her wildly popular decor book, Curate, give us refreshing decor inspo that combines modern design mixed with vintage soul and we can’t get enough!
Laura Gonzalez: Interiors
Become inspired by one of Paris’s most sought-after designers. See how designer and architect Laura Gonzalez expertly mixes patterns, texture, and whimsical details to create bold, iconic spaces, from retail to restaurants to hotels and homes. Her designs hint to the classics but are infused with her sophisticated, colorful, and diverse style. Think elegant romanticism with an edge.
Call It Home: The Details That Matter
Designer Amber Lewis, known for her California-inspired style and the author behind the best-selling Made for Living, goes into the details (the edges, grains, colors, and finishes) that make a home a beautiful one. If eclectic, laid-back and coastal is your style, this book is worthy of your limited bookshelf space.
Think Like A Decorator
Interior designer Leslie Banker and friends like designers Alexa Hampton, Tom Scheerer, and Amanda Nisbet, share their best tips for turning a space into a story. She helps you address common decor problems and offers advice for creating your own unique look in this fun, entertaining decor tome.
Calm Living
If you really want to create a sanctuary at home, this book by designer and Stanford instructor Olga Trusova teaches you how to make small changes in your space to feel more inspired, clear and joyful. Get snackable tips on how to use light, color, sound, and furniture to make an impact on your home and your mind and body.
The Home Style Handbook
UK-based artist and designer Lucy Gough shares step-by-steps and moodboard inspiration in this guide to creating a home that reflects you and your personal style.
Farrow & Ball How to Redecorate
Looking for good paint inspiration? This new edition of the best-selling interiors book teaches you how to use paint and wallpaper to transform your space.
The deVOL Kitchen
If you’ve caught the deVOL team (For the Love of Kitchens) on the Magnolia Network, you know that their work is no joke. With beautiful cabinetry and intelligent design, the UK-based design couple shows you how to make the most of the most important room in your home. This guide is full of stunning photography to inspire you to design and style your kitchen in a way that makes you feel right at home.
Colour Confidence
Sacred Spaces
Designer and photographer Carley Summers draws from her personal struggles with addiction to show how a home is a place that can heal. Learn about 14 other stories where home is truly where the heart is and how you can design your space for solace and comfort in her signature style.
The Interior Design Book For A Happy Home
Learn how to choose mood-boosting color palettes, incorporate natural textures that soothe, and create a joyful space you always want to come home to with dopamine decor expert Sofia Meri.
Your Space, Made Simple
If you’re feeling in a design rut, Bay Area interior designer Ariel Magidson will show you how to create a beautiful space that is approachable, affordable, and sustainable in this guide to a well-designed home. Understand what you need to make your home less stress-inducing, get tips for sourcing furniture that isn’t a splurge, and pick up recipes for arranging a space that feels just right.
For even more home decor inspo, sign up for our weekly email newsletter!
Header image via Amazon
From Your Site Articles
Source: brit.co
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Wow even the most hard-to-buy-for with these best-in-show finds for the home.
From space-savers to suit your culinary aficionado and gadgets even your handy father-in-law hasn’t heard of, these rental-friendly home gifts are sure to please even the most particular renters.
Take a look through our home gifts, where we have curated the best items to organize, decorate and add interest to their apartment. You might just find something here for yourself, while you’re at it.
No outlet, no problem – this modern and sleek cordless lamp looks luxe but exudes utility.
4.8 out of 5 stars – 43 ratings
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Light up your space with this sleek cordless lamp that’s not just stylish but also super practical. It’s the modern solution for a well-lit and wire-free atmosphere.
4.5 out of 5 stars – 370 ratings
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Forget the usual throw pillows – knot your way to cozy perfection with this unique gem. It’s not just a pillow; it’s a conversation starter that adds a touch of flair to your chill-out zone.
Storage ottoman that doubles as darling decor – done and done.
4.8 out of 5 stars – 130 ratings
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Meet the superhero of storage! This ottoman not only stashes your stuff but also doubles as decor. Decluttering has never looked this good – it’s the ultimate multitasker for a stylish living space.
4.5 out of 5 stars – 275 ratings
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Keep it classic and cozy with this timeless black & white throw. It’s the no-fail accessory for a comfy movie night or a stylish nap – because you can’t go wrong with a classic.
4.8 out of 5 stars – 2,166 ratings
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Add a touch of whimsy to your jewelry game with this white elephant holder. It’s not just a jewelry holder; it’s literally the perfect white elephant gift.
4.7 out of 5 stars – 1,625 ratings
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Sleek, smart and bedside-friendly – this docking station is a game-changer for your devices. Say goodbye to messy cords and hello to a stylish charging solution for the modern age.
4.5 out of 5 stars – 94,007 ratings
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Make meal prep a breeze with this 9-in-1 Veggie Chopper; it’s your secret weapon for slicing, dicing and conquering the kitchen with ease.
A counter-saving Cord Organizer to curb your cord conundrums.
4.4 out of 5 stars – 2,711 ratings
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Tame the cord chaos with this counter-saving cord organizer and keep your electronics in check without sacrificing style.
A bookend vase filled with“Tulips” for your black-thumbed but well-read friend.
4.6 out of 5 stars
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Combine literature and blooms with this bookend vase. Add a faux floral touch to bring your bookshelf to life – the perfect gift for your well-read, black-thumbed friend.
Whimsical (yet removable) wall decals.
4.6 out of 5 stars – 151 ratings
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Personalize your space without commitment with these whimsical, removable wall decals. Show your personality without risking your deposit!
16 tools, one handy gift.
4.6 out of 5 stars – 374 ratings
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Be the everyday hero with this 16-in-1 Multi-Tool, or should we say, toolbox, that fits in your pocket, ready to tackle whatever life throws your way.
Don’t forget the Command Strips.
4.7 out of 5 stars – 134 ratings
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Rebel against boring walls with this tin skeleton artwork. It’s lightweight enough for Command Strips but heavy-metal enough for even your most rebellious friend to rock.
Under Bed Storage to make the most out of that unused space.
4.8 out of 5 stars – 236 ratings
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Maximize your space with this under-bed storage solution, the ultimate secret weapon for making the most out of that underutilized space beneath the bed.
Enjoy the essence of a candle without the flame with this Black Cherry Diffuser.
4.4 out of 5 stars – 3,158 ratings
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What a scent-sational addition to your space! Create a cozy ambiance without the need for an open flame with this luxurious home gift featuring a unisex fragrance.
An apartment-friendly bar cart for your cocktail connoisseur.
4.7 out of 5 stars – 282 ratings
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Shake up your home entertaining with this apartment-friendly bar cart. Stylishly display all of those mixes, glasses and liquors to make mixing up the perfect cocktail in tight spaces a breeze.
Wall-safe decor or throw organizer? This ladder rack is both!
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Hang in there with this ladder rack that’s both wall-safe decor and a functional throw organizer. Say goodbye to crumpled piles of throws, and hello to style.
All the hot sauce, pantry space not required.
4.5 out of 5 stars – 6,125 ratings
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Turn up the heat without cluttering your pantry with this Hot Sauce Sampler. Do we see a fiery taste testing in your future?
Or for the adventurous type, try this DIY hot sauce kit.
4.6 out of 5 stars – 2,258 ratings
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Did you say more hot sauce? This DIY Hot Sauce Kit is an adventure waiting to happen – the perfect home gift for the bold and adventurous in your life.
Super absorbent, washable doormat for our fellow pet-loving clean freaks.
4.7 out of 5 stars – 215 ratings
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Keep it clean and cute with this super absorbent, washable doormat. It doubles as a dirt catcher – so pets get most of that outside muck off their feet before they prance through the apartment – and as a warning to incoming guests that they’re about to be loved on by something furry and sweet.
Space-saving smart lamp so your vibey friend can properly set the mood.
4.6 out of 5 stars – 3,453 ratings
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Light up your vibes with this space-saving smart lamp. It’s not just a lamp; it’s your ticket to setting the perfect mood without sacrificing precious space.
4.8 out of 5 stars – 15 ratings
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Cheeky friends will love this cheeky toilet topper. It’s a giggle-inducing and stylish way to bring a little fun to the smallest room in your home.
Whatever gift you give, have a (pillow) ball while giving it.
4.4 out of 5 stars – 41 ratings
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What we mean is to have a ball of fun with this playful Pillow Ball. Late-night pillow basketball, anyone?
The best home gifts for the holidays
While you most likely can’t afford to buy your friend or family member a new home for the holidays, you can find something in our list of home gifts above to make their space feel as cozy as possible. Even better: Our list above is all Amazon finds, so you can grab them at the last minute, too.
Source: rent.com
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Questions? Reach us at [email protected]
We know it’s the week before Halloween, but it’s not too late to grab the perfect Halloween decor! Whether you’re looking for the perfect finishing touches to complete your Halloween home or you haven’t even begun to decorate, Amazon has you covered with all kinds of Halloween decor.
The online retailer has more than just indoor decorations and spooky decor for your yard. If you’re in need of Halloween costumes, party supplies, Halloween candy, costume makeup, pumpkin carving supplies, and more, Amazon has what you’re looking for!
Where to Buy Halloween Decor: Amazon Prime Members Have Access to Fast, Free Shipping
Get Halloween decor to your front door fast with Amazon Prime. If you’re an Amazon Prime Member, you’ll get your Halloween decorations fast and easy with two-day shipping! Signing up to become a Prime Member is easy for those who don’t already subscribe.
18 Halloween Decorations to Turn Your Home From Bare to Scare
Halloween Kitchen Decor
Buy from Amazon, $40
Let your friends and family know what you’re serving up this Halloween with this spooky coffin-shaped letter board! It’s the perfect kitchen or dining room accessory for listing menu items, but it can really be used anywhere in the house. It’s available in black, orange, or purple and comes complete with 500 white and black characters so you can create a custom sign for your home.
Buy Now
Halloween Bathroom Decor
Buy from Amazon, $18
Keep your bathroom smelling fresh this fall with this pumpkin spice soy wax candle. It’s infused with fall scents like pumpkin, cinnamon, clove, and vanilla and small enough (9 oz.) to place on the back of a toilet or vanity in your home’s powder room to mask any unwanted odors this Halloween!
Buy Now
Halloween Home Decor
Buy from Amazon, $30
These adorable mini knit pumpkins are ideal for your mantle or can create a beautiful centerpiece for your coffee table or dining room buffet this fall. They’re hand-made by a small business in Wisconsin, stand 2.5″ x 2″ tall, and come in a set of 12 fall colors sure to fit with a variety of home decorating styles.
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Halloween Door Decor
Buy from Amazon, $26
Welcome guests this Halloween with this ghoulish front door sign. The “Welcome” illuminates to greet your guests and trick-or-treaters alike! This wreath comes in three options: the ghost pictured here, a moon wreath with a black cat, and an alien sign that reads “You were warned.”
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Halloween Table Decor
Buy from Amazon, $31
Dress up your table this Halloween with these adorable light up ghost figurines. Each little ghost has a different expression and body type that gets illuminated by LED lights in a beautiful warm white glow. From mantles to dining room tables, decorative shelving, and more, there’s no wrong way to decorate with these ghosts!
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Halloween Porch Decor
Buy from Amazon, $10
Illuminate your yard with these creepy glowing ghosts this Halloween. Each kit comes with three ghosts adorned with witch hats that light up. When night falls, they will seem to float in the air, creating a mysterious atmosphere on your property for your guests or passerby.
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Pastel Halloween Decor
Buy from Amazon, $27
This set of decorative pumpkins feature traditional pumpkin shapes and are painted in harvest white and pastel pink, then lightly brushed with gold and topped with whitewashed stems. They’re also available without the gold brushing detail as well as more traditional Halloween color options. Use them in a decorative bowl to create a centerpiece, on your mantle, or in a powder room to create a festive fall ambiance.
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HALLOWEEN WALL DECOR
Buy from Amazon, $9
This kit comes of 120 bat stickers is made of waterproof PVC, making them the perfect indoor or outdoor decor! The bats come in four ranging sizes with wings that can be folded any way you like. Use them on interior or exterior walls to create a spooky vibe anywhere around your home.
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Halloween Mantle Decor
Buy from Amazon, $7
100% anti-crease polyester fabric ensures a lightweight, durable, and fade-resistant black lace spiderweb perfect for your Halloween mantle, dining room table, or buffet set-up. It’s 18×96 inches and can be used in plenty of other ways, too, including over a doorway or window or as a backdrop for your Halloween photo shoot.
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Black Cat Halloween Decor
Buy from Amazon, $20
Illuminate your yard this Halloween with this set of decorative black cats. Their eyes glow with purple LED light to create a mysterious and dark atmosphere on your property. They can be turned on automatically or set with a timer to glow for six hours at a time.
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Halloween Window Decor
Buy from Amazon, $10
Illuminate your window this Halloween with a spell book, cat, and cauldron light set! Set it and forget it this Halloween with these timed LED light shapes, which also come in a set that has a pumpkin, spider, and witch hat.
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Indoor Halloween Decor
Buy from Amazon, $24
Use these flickering flameless hanging candles throughout your home this Halloween to achieve a spooky atmosphere! Each tapered candle is equipped with barely-there fishing line that makes them easy to hang from ceilings, mirrors, and more. The best part is that they’re controlled with a magic wand that only requires one AAA battery.
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Halloween Witch Decor
Buy from Amazon, $30
Install this quintessential crashing illuminated witch to any tree in your yard for a hilarious addition to your Halloween decor. Long straps on each hand and ankle make it easy to install, remove, and reuse year after year. The steel wire in the broom makes it adjustable and customizable, too! Available in warm white or orange lights, this crashing witch is a must-have.
Buy Now
Cute Halloween Decor
Buy from Amazon, $24
Dress up your couch, power recliner, or porch swing this Halloween with these adorable ghost throw pillows! They’re made from an ultra-soft polyester velvet material that’s durable but soft to the touch. Each set comes with three pillows that range in size (12″x16″, 13.5″x16″, 17″x16″).
Buy Now
Gothic Halloween Decor
Buy from Amazon, $15
If you’re a lover of gothic Halloween decor, these artificial eucalyptus stems are ideal for your home. Each pack comes with 24 pieces of black faux eucalyptus stems (13.4 inches in length) ideal for centerpieces, entryways, and more.
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Living Room Halloween Decor
Buy from Amazon, $12
Have throw pillows you want to dress up for the Halloween holiday? This set of four throw pillow covers is perfect! With quotes like “It’s Just a Bunch of Hocus Pocus” and “Sanderson Sister’s Black Flame Candle Company,” they’re perfect for any fan of Hocus Pocus! Available in white and black, white, black and orange, or colorful options, these throw pillow cases will fit into any Halloween home decor.
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Chic Halloween Decor
Buy from Amazon, $25
This rustic book tower features burlap ribbon wrap and is accented with the words “spells”, “curses”, and “brews” in a typewriter style print that’ll make the perfect addition to your bookshelf, coffee table, or window display this Halloween. Plus, these open like a box and are hollow inside, so they can double as secret storage!
Buy Now
DIY Halloween Decor
Buy from Amazon, $10
Create your own custom Halloween decorations with this DIY wood set complete with spiders, bats, pumpkins, witch hats and eight other varying styles. These decorations can be stained or painted any way you like, then hung with the cotton rope each kit comes with to easily transform your home for the Halloween holiday.
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Get festive with these Halloween decorations! Shop these and more from Amazon.
Want more Halloween ideas? Keep reading!
Halloween Cakes: 14 Spooky Good Recipes
These Old Halloween Photos Will Get You in the Spirit
Halloween Dinner Ideas: 22 Frightfully Fun Recipes
Woman’s World aims to feature only the best products and services. We update when possible, but deals expire and prices can change. If you buy something via one of our links, we may earn a commission.
Questions? Reach us at [email protected]
Source: yahoo.com
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A harmonious blend of form and function.
Among the various decorating trends; like maximalism, mid-century modern and bohemian, one stands out and even influences others. Scandinavian decor, as seen at your local IKEA, is characterized by a combination of simplicity, functionality and a strong emphasis on natural elements. With its growing popularity and increasing influence on minimalism, Scandinavian decor is a worthwhile deep dive for those design enthusiasts in search of a crisp and clean functional space.
Popular for its practicality and functionality, this Nordic-design style curates calm yet creative spaces perfect for entertaining, working and living. When navigating the design world, whether you’re an aficionado or a first-time renter, everything you ever wanted to know can be found within Scandinavian decor, without an airline ticket or an interior designer.
What is the Scandinavian decor style?
This interior design style originated in the Nordic countries of Denmark, Norway, Sweden and Finland. The Industrial Revolution led to significant changes in society which saw a transition from handmade goods to mass production. In response to this, Scandinavian designers began to emphasize quality craftsmanship and simple, functional designs.
The style gained international recognition and popularity in the mid-20th century, specifically the 1950s and 1960s. This period is often referred to as the “Golden Age” of Scandinavian design which emerged alongside the mid-century modern movement.
Scandinavian modern style, during this time, prioritized affordable yet sleek furnishings and interiors through clean lines, functional furniture and a neutral color palette. Influential designers like Arne Jacobsen, Greta Grossman and Hans J. Wegner created iconic pieces that are still celebrated today.
Defining features of Scandinavian decor
While it’s easy to envision what your last trip to IKEA was like, Scandinavian interiors are much more than simple furnishings and clean designs.
- Emphasis on minimalism: Minimalism and Scandinavian decor walk hand-in-hand in the design world. The minimalist philosophy of “less is more” lends itself well to the simple, functional and intentional pieces found in Scandinavian decorated spaces.
- Neutral and light color palette: A predominantly white or light color scheme is a hallmark of Scandinavian decor. White walls and ceilings are often complemented by soft, neutral colors like light gray, beige or pale pastels in furnishings. This light color palette helps maximize the natural light in the space, especially during the long, dark winters in Scandinavia.
- Natural material usage: Scandinavian decor emphasizes the natural beauty found in nature and natural materials. Materials like wood, stone and leather are commonly used for furniture and flooring. These materials add texture and visual interest to Scandinavian spaces.
- Functional furniture and lighting: As IKEA has shown, Scandinavian design is about dual functionality with style. Furniture that serves a dual purpose of practicality and flair.
- Focus on sustainability: Nordic countries have a strong focus on sustainability, which carries over into their design choices. Think of eco-friendly materials that are made of reusable materials like recycled wood.
Bringing Scandinavian style into your home
Finding the perfect Nordic-inspired pieces may seem challenging. We’ve compiled some of our favorite pics to get you started on your dive into Scandinavia.
This modern accent chair
Source: Amazon
The unique shape, texture and neutral color of this accent chair make it the perfect addition to your living room. Available in two sizes, this modern furniture piece is sure to fit into a current design scheme while bringing a visual interest and cozy vibe to the space.
This bright linen lamp
Source: Amazon
Scandinavian decor harps on the usage of natural materials. This linen lamp mixes soft linen with sleek natural wood to create a great addition to your bedside table, office desk or bookshelf.
Not to mention, bright light is also encouraged in Scandinavian decor to break apart the monotony of a neutral color palette and brighten up the space. This lamp does just that with the click of a button.
The dining chairs that blend neutrality with texture
Source: Amazon
Dining chairs, while not considered large pieces of furniture, are unique ways to incorporate design styles into your dining room or kitchen area. These modern chairs are unique in the sense that they incorporate the natural texture of leather webbing. These unique chairs are sure to be a conversation starter at your next dinner party.
This functional and stylish coffee table
Source: Amazon
Functional furnishings are a hallmark of Scandinavian spaces. This coffee table with an extra storage level serves as not only a place to hold your morning cup of joe but also a convenient spot to tuck away your favorite books, magazines or remote controls, promoting a clutter-free and organized living area.
This visually interesting wall art set
Source: Amazon
Can you count all of the clean lines created in this wall art set? The lines are truly endless, earning it the stamp of Scandinavian decor approval. The black and white geometric patterns within this set add some vibrancy to the neutral and modern space, making it a fantastic addition to your wall space.
Your sleek Scandinavian space awaits
Combining minimalist with functionality creates an intentional space that feels clean and sleek, which is a great place to start on your journey with design. Scandinavian interior design not only fosters a sense of serenity but also encourages an appreciation for the beauty of simplicity. Embrace the Scandinavian decor ideas to transform your living space into a sanctuary of both aesthetics and purpose.
Still looking for that perfect space to curate your Nordic design dream? Find the perfect place in one of our available apartments for rent.
Source: rent.com
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October is officially one week away, making this week the best time to shop for and refresh your space with Halloween decor. Pottery Barn, Anthropologie, Target, IKEA, and West Elm all have some of the most fun and viral Halloween decoration ideas, but my absolute favorite place to find stylish and spooky home decor items is at JOANN. Not only does JOANN have some of the most festive, spooky season home decor, but it also has amazing prices, with sales starting super early in the season.
With JOANN’s current Lowest Prices of the Season sale, you can get between 50 and 60 percent off fall and JOANN Halloween decor, just in time for trick-or-treaters. Plus, this week’s JOANN coupons include a $1.99 shipping perk with promo code SHIP199SAVE at checkout.
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The market is awash with Halloween pieces at the moment and at this time of year you rarely find them on sale. Halloween pieces at competitors can be incredibly expensive for decor that you’ll only use once a year, so it’s smart to find finishing touches on markdown. What I particularly like about JOANN’s selection is that a lot of these pieces are made with iron instead of plastic, so they should hold up for years, saving you even more in the long run.
Place & Time Halloween Metal Moon Phase Candle Holder
Candlesticks are one of the biggest home decor trends of the season, and this moon phase option puts a spooky spin on the style. Constructed from 100 percent iron, this candle holder of moon phases is heavy-duty and built to last for seasons to come. It would look so cute on a tablescape with the viral DIY ghost candle from TikTok or added to a spooky fireplace display with flameless taper candles.
Place & Time Halloween LED Haunted House
Illuminate your mantle or bookshelf with this adorable Halloween LED Haunted House from JOANN’s Place & Time Crypts and Cobwebs collection. This haunted house is constructed from a durable mix of stone powder and resin, giving it a ceramic-like finish. We love it on its own on an entry table next to a tablescape of pumpkins and gourds or paired with other haunted houses from the JOANN collection.
Place & Time Halloween Metal Spider Bowl
Whether you’re shopping for a Halloween candy dish or are looking for unique serving dishes for an upcoming spooky party, the Halloween Metal Spider Bowl is another fantastic spooky addition to your Halloween decor. This 9-inch bowl features long, creepy crawly legs and a full spider body and head with plenty of room for candy corn, pub mix, popcorn, and other Halloween snacks.
Place & Time Halloween Black Metal Bats Wall Accent
If you want to deck out your walls for Halloween but are looking for something slightly more elevated than your traditional party decor, this chic Black Metal Bats Wall Accent from Place & Time is worth considering (and its sale price makes it a definite add to cart). The durable Halloween wall decor is constructed from 100 percent iron and would look spooktacular placed above a fireplace mantle, entryway wall, or even outdoors in a patio area.
Place & Time Halloween Orange Pumpkin & Ball Felt Garland
Autumn means festive garland, starting with this craftcore style felt garland featuring plush orange pumpkins. This 6-inch long garland is a fun and whimsical way to dress up your home for the spooky season and would look great placed along a mantle, wrapped around a wreath, or added to a children’s room bookshelf.
Place & Time Halloween Figural Ghost Pillow
If you love the viral Gus the Ghost pillow from Pottery Barn but are looking for a more budget-friendly option, consider the Halloween Figural Ghost Pillow from JOANN. This 14 x 17-inch ghost pillow is somewhat of a Pottery Barn dupe and features that same plush material and spooky spirit. It’s the perfect throw pillow for that living room accent chair, but it would also look adorable nestled up with other festive pillows on an entryway bench.
If JOANN’s sale items aren’t quite doing it for you, we’ve also covered the best places to buy Halloween decor so that you can welcome trick-or-treaters in style.
Source: homesandgardens.com