There’s no doubt that Spring has sprung, and I’ve been viewing several blog hops to get me motivated to make a few changes around the house, however, due to some life circumstances I haven’t had the opportunity to do much desired changes in our home to create a new look.  But by switching a couple items around the house and hitting a few thrift stores and Goodwill, I was able to accomplish a bit of mix in patterns to get a start to feel like I’ve done something.  Koko had been a bad girl in my living room which caused me to get a new area rug.  So to start things off I had to take out the white rug because I tried everything I could to get the stain out and no success.  I have to admit if it weren’t for her mishap, I’d still have the white rug, so having another rug gave the room a new feeling.  I lucked up and found this rug online for $50.00. I also moved the empire chair into the room to create a sitting area (where no one sits..lol).  Here is a closer look of the pattern and color of the new rug.  I like the blue and gold tones which blends with the room.  I angled the rug to show more of the beautiful pattern (which actually made the room feel a bit larger).

The area rug is the only item I splurged on and the rest were thrifted.  I’m still looking for fabric for new window treatments.  So if you’re like me working on limited funds, here’s my simple list of items to look for to create small changes that makes an impact.

Item No. 1) Baskets:  Baskets are a must and they’re everywhere.  They can act as planters, catchers, or even flipped upside down- can be used as a small table.   If you recall, I scored this basket for $2.00.

I recently found this one for $2.00 which gave my pineapple plant a much needed lift.

Item No. 2)  Small stands:  Rattan and bamboo stands are all the rave now and are great for plants and/or vases.  I scored this one for $5.00.

Item No. 3)  Pillows: – Sure it’s wonderful to have custom made pillows, but sometimes when you add up the cost of fabric and the pillow form along with time to make them, you can come out cheaper at thrift stores and yard sales.  There are a plethora of pillows out there, so don’t pass on the bins.  I scored the last two pillows for $2.00ea.  They had a zipper closure so, I removed the insert and washed the casing.

I love mixing patterns and designs for a pillow grouping.  When I tire of them, I can either re-sell or donate back without feeling guilty.

Item No. 4) :  Decorative Vases and Ginger Jars are a great way to add color and patterns to a space.  I found this one at Goodwill for $3.99

Item No. 5) : Books –  Every coffee table requires books.  Not only for reading, but they can be used to add height to decorative table decor and if they have beautiful covers they add – again – more color.

You can use your favorite fabric or wrapping paper and recover them to create your own stylish look, as I did with the vintage books on the etagere.  Here’s a full view of the area

So don’t feel stressed out trying to have an all new fresh look for Spring.  You can add freshness and newness on a dime budget.  I hope these 5 tips were helpful and while you’re out there thrifting you’ll remember to look for them to incorporate in your decor.  As always.. remember  Happy Hunting while you thrift your house into a home  Thanks again for reading.