When the time comes to decorate, you instinctively start crunching numbers to see how much the project will cost you. The thing is, there is no magic formula for figuring it out. You can, however, get an estimate by determining where the money should be spent.
How Much Does Decorating Cost? : Decorating 101
The cost of decorating is different for everyone, for every home, and for every room. Let’s take a look at how to estimate what a decorating project will cost.
- Set a Budget or Range.Tip: In all honesty, it’s easier to determine what you’re willing to spend, rather than trying to guess what the project might cost.
- Make a list of the rooms you’d like to decorate.It is best to focus on one room at a time. However, if you are going to decorate more than one room, listing them out separate is definitely the way to go.
- Write down all the items that need to be purchased.Remember to include rugs, draperies, side tables, paint, light fixtures or lamps, mirrors and art, sofas or slipcovers and accessories!
- Assigning a dollar amount to each item as you go -Enter all of this information on a spreadsheet.*A little research can help you get an idea as to how much these things cost. Make sure the numbers you plug in reflect the items you want.
- Where to Skimp & Where to Splurge.When decorating a home, some areas require more investment than others. If uncertain about what those areas may be, think about the items that will get the most use. Typically, those items include seating, flooring, dining room tables, and mattresses. Skimping on items such as these could end up costing you more in the long run, should anything need replacing. If you want pieces that will last for decades, finding something of quality should be a priority. Another area to wisely invest in is labor. The people who help execute your project are very important, so take the time to seek out a licensed and reliable contractor if you need to use one.Areas that don’t necessarily require as much money are lighting, rugs, wall finishes, and accessories. If you have excess funds, then, by all means, go with something higher end. If you don’t, however, opt for a lower-cost, yet equally nice alternative. For example, if you can’t afford that wool area rug you’ve had your eye on, go for something made of jute or sea grass. Both are beautiful options that may fit better within your budget for the project.
When it comes to fabric, skip the chain stores that have huge markups. Instead, seek out fabric mill outlet stores, like us, that can provide you quality, designer fabrics at a discount. We have a wide variety of fabrics that are not only affordable but beautiful and durable as well.
Keep in mind that saving money doesn’t mean you have to settle for flimsy furniture. There are several thrift stores, antique shops and flea markets around that offer quality pieces for less. If you have a knack for DIY projects, you can easily give a vintage piece a fresher look to fit your style.
Accessories typically fall to the bottom of a homeowner’s list. While skimping on accessories is okay, you don’t want to wait until the last minute. Keep an eye open for things that will finish off the room and purchase them as you go so you aren’t scrambling around when the project is complete.
Other Things to Consider
It’s totally up to you which rooms you’d like to spend more money on, but as a general rule, invest in the areas you spend the most time in. You can always address the other rooms at a later time.
If a move to a new home is in your near future, don’t go overboard on spending a lot of money for things like window coverings or custom pieces. Save that for when you’ll be settled for a while.
One last thing to remain aware of is that you’ll likely go over budget. Surprises happen, so it’s wise to have a cushion for anything unexpected that may arise.
If you are looking for an upholstery fabric store near Houston, TX, we have just what you need! Come by either of our locations in Houston where you will find interior (and exterior) fabrics that will be the perfect compliment for your decorating project.
