Bored with my Bedroom Decor

(A Frugal Way to Change a Bedroom's Look)

A frugal reader writes: My bedroom is boring. There's nothing really wrong with the way that my bedroom is decorated, I'm just tired of it. I want a new look. The problem is that I can't afford to spend very much. Well, that and that I don't know what to do with it anyway. I've read that the easiest way to change up a room is to paint it, but I don't think that is the answer. Paint is expensive. Besides, I've tried that before and it was messy, hard work, and took a long time. Do you have any better ideas?

Coleen, the editor replies: Skip the paint. Paint is fine for a major re-do, but it doesn't sound like that's what you are after.

Instead, look to your bed. it's the biggest piece of furniture in the room so changing how it looks changes the whole room. Swap out your bedspread. Go for something in a different color or style. If you now have a chenille spread, try a fluffy comforter. If your current comforter is a floral, try a plaid or geometric print.

If the cost of new spread is too much, think used. Look for them at garage sales or second hand stores. You can often find them in great shape because the previous got rid of it because she wanted to change her bedroom look.

If the only change you are making is the bed cover, make sure the new one coordinates with your curtains, carpet, other bed linens, and accessories.

Have fun with it. We'd love to see before and after pictures.