How to make over your kid's bedroom on a budget

May 14, 2012 7:00 AM by Kori Ellis

Posted in How-To / Parenting How-to

Budget Decorating Tips

You don't want to spend a fortune redecorating your child's bedroom. Instead, make small changes that will make a big impact.

Tween girl's bedroom

Step 1: Start with a coat of paint

Give the room a quick update with a coat of paint. Keep in mind that while bold colors are fun, they aren't very calming. Therefore, you might consider picking more muted shades for the walls and use bright complementary colors for trim and accent pieces. If you don't want to repaint the whole room, just paint one accent wall instead.

Step 2: Consider wallpaper

Wallpaper can add texture, color and some pizzazz to your kids' room. Classic florals, chevron stripes and modern metallics are all popular trends in wallpaper right now. Check out these unique wallpaper options.

Step 3: Set up a homework station

Even though you want your child's room to be cool and fun, you are also a parent -- so it should be conducive to learning. Set up a homework space with age-appropriate furniture and proper lighting. Unless your kids are older teens, you should probably keep the computer out of the bedroom, however.

Step 4: Change the bedding

Updating the bedding can give your kid's room a whole new look without breaking the budget. You don't need to buy bedding from department stores or specialty shops; Walmart and Target often have bedding on sale. You can also try online stores like CloseoutLinen.com and TheFoundary.com for discounted bedding up to 70 percent off.

Step 5: Add kid-friendly furniture

You don't need to change out every piece of furniture in the room, but adding a comfy kid-size couch, reading chairs and other kid-friendly furniture can really enhance the look of the room without costing an arm and a leg.

Step 6: Incorporate unique accessories

Interesting picture frames, unique wall art, funky coat hooks, retro mirrors and unusual shelving units can be found at resale shops, consignment stores and other discount retailers. Use your imagination and ask for your child's input to find unexpected items that are both practical and stylish.