by Pat Veretto

Created on: February 15, 2007   Last Updated: April 09, 2007

I'm going to address a strict budget, because that's the position most people are in, when they begin to ask, "How can I do this better?"

Being on a strict budget doesn't mean you have to have furniture that looks like everyone's castoffs (although it may be!).

You see, whether you go "curb shopping" (picking up what others have put out for trash), or thrift store shopping, you can be choosy about what you bring home, just like you would if you went to a high dollar store. You wouldn't buy the first thing you saw; you'd stroll around, looking for that piece that jumps out at you. The perfect piece. The color that pulls your dreams together. The shape that makes you smile.

Maybe that perfect couch or special cabinet has a few dings or is really grungy. Don't let that stop you if you really like it. Most wood will respond to a good scrubbing, but if it's past that point, it doesn't cost much to sand the surface and apply beeswax or oil. Or you can restore it altogether. Or you can paint it if it's the right style for it.

A couch can be recovered, although that runs into some expense if you have it done professionally. If you have any sewing experience, you can do it yourself. Take the old upholstery material off carefully and use it as a pattern. If you don't feel confident in doing this, ask around. You might have a friend who would do it for a small fee or something you can barter.

Couch covers have come a long way since Grandma threw an bedspread over the old couch. They can cost a fair amount, but they're still cheaper than a new couch!

With some thought and time, your home can be more beautiful than if you bought all new furniture, because it will be unique and pulled together with your work and imagination. No manufactured look can equal that!

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