If you're redecorating your home, discount art can provide an entirely new look for a very affordable price. Whether you're looking for traditional floral prints or a funky abstract painting, there are a number of ways you can find discount art for your home.
Retail Stores
Depending upon your needs, you may be able to find discount art at a retail store near you. Consider the following options:
- Discount superstores such Wal-Mart, Target, and K-Mart
- Large chain craft stores such as Hobby Lobby or Michaels Crafts
- Department stores such as JCPenney, Kohls, and Younkers
- Specialty home décor stores Pier 1 Imports, Bed Bath & Beyond, and Linens 'N Things
Shop Online
If you're looking for posters or framed prints in a variety of themes, it's easy to shop online for discount art. Check out the following websites:
If you're hoping to find unique handmade art, check out the selection at Etsy. This website offers affordable art in a variety of styles. Many of the artists who advertise on this site are even willing to complete custom orders.
Garage Sales, Consignment Shops, and Thrift Stores
Garage sales, consignment shops, and thrift stores can be great sources of discount art. If you're patient and shop around, you'll find everything from paintings and sculptures to poster art and reproductions. If you find a painting that you love, don't be discouraged by a frame that is chipped or damaged. Having your artwork reframed may still be more affordable than purchasing an entirely new item.
Colleges and Universities
If you're looking for one-of-a-kind art that won't cost a fortune, head to the nearest college or university to ask about buying a painting from a talented art student. Most schools have regular sales that give art majors a chance to earn money while generating public interest in their work. You'll get discount art for your home and the satisfaction of knowing you've helped a young artist at the start of his/her career.
Craft Shows
Another great way to find affordable original art is to visit local craft shows. You can often find watercolor paintings, pencil sketches, sculptures, and handmade pottery at these events. However, you'll want to make a point to get to the show as early as possible. Since all the merchandise is one-of-a-kind, the selection tends to be picked over rather quickly.
Making Your Own Art
If you can't find discount art that suits your needs, consider making your own art. Contrary to popular belief, you don't have to be a creative genius to make stylish art for your home. Consider one of the following ideas:
- Frame pretty greeting cards. album or CD covers, or pages from a calendar.
- If you have children, mat and frame their artwork for unique wall décor. You'll save money and your kids will be thrilled that their pictures are getting the gallery treatment.
- Hang a pretty quilt or drape a large piece of fabric over the walls.
- Use the free Rasterbator software to make your own giant wall poster from a favorite image.
- Create a dramatic grouping of various sized photographs by placing them all in similar frames. If you can't afford to buy new picture frames, pick up a can of spray paint and redo your existing frames in a new color.
- Try making your own abstract painting using a canvas and acrylic paints. Squares, circles, and other geometric shapes in bright colors make a fun accent for any contemporary home.
- Stencil a single word on your wall for a hip and quirky effect. "Believe" or "Create" work well for most rooms, but feel free to use your imagination.
Additional Interior Design Ideas
For more budget decorating tips, check out these helpful resources:
- LoveToKnow Interior Design
- The Budget Decorator
- Shoestring Chic
