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Does your kitchen need a face lift? Kitchen remodels are pricey, costing thousands, and while we would all love that new set of appliances, for most people, it's just not in the budget. But fear not, there are many ways to improve your kitchen's style without going broke! The key is to think small. Don't forget, the little details can make a huge difference. Not only that, but these little details are usually easy and affordable to replace.

One of the simplest, most cost effective improvements you can make in a kitchen is to improve the hardware, this means those old worn knobs and handles on your cabinets. In most U.S. Hardware stores, hardware can cost anywhere from 6-7 dollars a knob, to as little as 1 dollar per fixture, making hardware easily affordable and customizable. But how do you choose the right color? There are a few things you should keep in mind when deciding.

First, what are the color of your cabinets. Do you want the knobs color to match the wood tone of your cabinets exactly, or do you want it to accent the cabinets? Second, what colors are in the rest of your kitchen? If you are going to use your new knobs as accents, they should pop, but not clash with the rest of the decor. If wood is not for you, don't forget to look at metal hardware as well, materials such as stainless steel, copper or other such metals can add nice contrast to wood cabinets. (Keep in mind some materials like copper require upkeep.)

Color can be tricky, so typically you should bring a sample of your cabinet color to the store with you. Yes, this may mean taking off the door and bringing it with you. If this is not possible, try to bring at least a couple pictures of your cabinets and kitchen with you. Keep in mind that lighting could play a part, your kitchen's light may be very different than the harsh lighting of the store, and that can affect the way the color looks. Bright light may 'wash out' some of the color, so that if you bring it home to a darker kitchen, the knob color will suddenly seem brighter than it did in the store.

Ask for another person's opinion. Color can be subjective, looking different to different people, and of course everyone has their own style. If you live with another person who pays bills, (i.e. significant other, roommate etc,) it may be wise to bring them with to get their opinion. Asking an employees is also wise, they may able to offer professional color advice.

Replacing hardware is an affordable, simple way to make your kitchen shine. So what are you waiting for? Get out there are bring home some color to your kitchen!

Learn more about this author, Bethany Leino.
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