Paint and pounds: How to cut the cost of decorating

According to a report by Which? the average cost of hiring a decorator to wallpaper, paint and gloss a medium-sized room can total as much as £738. Add to that the cost of materials, such as paint and wallpaper, and you’re already looking at quite a large price tag which doesn’t even include buying furniture, accessories and soft furnishings. 

To help you keep your decorating budget in check, we’ve compiled a roundup of tips and tricks for revamping a space without breaking the bank (plus the places to splurge, too). 

Plump for a feature wall 

Want a room to pop without spending a fortune? Opt for a standout feature wall, using an attention-seeking patterned wallpaper to draw the eye – it’ll give any room an instant lift. To pinch the pennies even further, pair with white paint which is not only chic but is said to be a cheaper choice than coloured versions, too. 

Try your hand at upcycling 

Before you embark on the shopping trip of the century, take a moment to think about any items you already own which could be upcycled – you’ll find most have heaps of potential. A lick of chalk paint, reupholstering in leftover fabric or making the most of the end of wallpaper rolls can go a long way. Try upcycling using daring prints and fabrics to transform old furniture into statement pieces. 

Splurge on key pieces 

Investing in important furniture, such as a sofa or dining table, will go a long way. Pick products which fit within your budget but are of high quality. Well-made pieces can last up to 30 years, so are well worth splashing out on. 

Update soft furnishings 

If you don’t want – or need – to buy a new sofa or bed, try updating your soft furnishings and accessories instead. Cushions, throws and bedspreads are completely affordable and can give your space a stylish new look, without having to change the entire room. 

Maximise natural light 

Your home can instantly feel bigger and brighter if you utilise natural light where possible. Allow the sun to stream in by framing your windows in a pale or white shade and choose a light fabric for your curtains or blinds. It’s a simple but very effective trick of the trade. 

Do it yourself 

The best way to save money while decorating is opting to do the work yourself, rather than employing professionals. There’s plenty of tutorials available on the net to help you along the way – if you’re looking to install a wall mural, we’ve got a handy video to help you with every step.