by MK

Created on: April 16, 2008   Last Updated: April 18, 2008

How many times have you watched a show like Trading Places and thought I could have done that or if they did that to my house, I don't know how I'd live in it?

It might seem like it can't be all that difficult to pick some furniture and paint the place. Though you might be afraid of being settled with something you don't like and being that much the poorer for it.

Interior decoration is not easy. Decorators learn through years of experience about what works and what does not. I know this and am fully aware that I have the odds stacked against me on getting it right the first time, yet I would still choose to do it myself.

When choosing to decorate, you have to spend a lot of time and effort researching the process and the materials among others. It can turn out to be a lengthy and costly affair. If you make an effort though, you can be rewarded well.

These days there is so much information out there. A little effort in the right direction can result in a beautiful room that meets all your needs. It doesn't have to cost you an arm and a leg either.

When decorating a room, the first step should be to determine the function of the room. What will you do in that room? Watch TV, sleep or read. What function do you need the space to perform? Do you need a bedroom, a living room or a dining room cum kitchen?

The next step is to determine the layout. Where should the chairs be placed, do you want to have the table in the center of the room or against a wall, or do you need side tables? It's a good idea at this point to ensure that your dimensions are correct. It helps to make paper cutouts and lay them out in your space to ensure that the scale is correct. Get a good and honest friend to provide some input.

The final step is the shopping. This is where the fun starts. You should at this stage have some idea about what your inspiration is. This might be a favorite carpet you bought on your travels or a vase you'd like to display in your living room. You will also need to determine your color scheme before you hit the shops. The abundance of choice might distract you and you'll end up stuck with purchases you shouldn't have made.

Be prepared to make mistakes if this is your first time. Some lessons can only be learned the hard way. Don't let that detract you from your goal.

Decorating can be a rewarding activity. The whole process can be fun. If you do it right you'll end up with a room you enjoy spending time in and others compliment.

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