A cheap and cheery makeover

6 Garden party
What better way to bring the outdoors in then growing a windowsill garden right in your own kitchen. Select your own seeds, from candy-coloured petunias to lush marigolds. You're guaranteed cheerful blooms all year round! Available at redenvelope.com.










7 Wall art
People have a love/hate relationship with wallpaper, but truthfully, nothing is easier to install to create that instant wow-factor. Nowadays wallpaper coverings have come a long way in both patterns and colours, so you really can find a style that suits your tastes. Don't feel pressure to wallpaper your entire living space; instead, select one of two parallel walls to cover that will complement your existing decor. The Wallpaper Company (available at Home Depot) has many selections to choose from; we're quite fond of this one shown here. 




8 Lantern lights
Whether you substitute these for balloons at your next party or you need to incorporate some extra light into your space, these lanterns from Pier 1 are so budget-friendly (at $6.50 each) and so chic. We love the cheerful colours, too!












9 Visual effects
Place three large glass jars or carafes of various sizes on your kitchen counter. Fill with delicious home-baked cookies, pastas, legumes, and foodstuff that has colour, or display vibrant fresh blooms. Other ideas: cinnamon hearts in February, candy canes at Christmas. The options are limitless. These glasses and carafe from Anthropologie are a stylish alternative to traditional glass jars and vases.







10 Floor model
Area rugs are a great example of how you can creatively redecorate your home without making permanent changes. Don't invest in a Persian if your budget can't stand the expense; not only are they expensive but they're huge. Select something that won't challenge your space, but complement it like this one from Sears.

Read more in Decorating & Design and Budget