Decorating 101: Using Wall Art to Show Your Style

Decorating the walls of your apartment is one of the best parts of having your own space. It’s an opportunity to show your style, your creativity and to express yourself! But if you’re living on a budget, it can be very difficult to furnish your walls with art, because the price of each painting adds up. However, there are lots of options for adding interest to your walls without breaking the bank. Check out these six ideas below!

1. Tapestries

Tapestries are great because they take up lots of space, come in a diverse amount of patterns, and you don’t have to drill holes into your walls (and potentially break your lease). They’re also terrific for adding texture to your space. Great places to check for tapestries are Urban Outfitters, Society6 or even Amazon!

map-cnm-tapestriesPhoto credit: society6.com

2. Picture frames arranged into a pattern

Are you having a tough time picking just one piece for your wall? Try arranging many smaller prints into a pattern instead! Choose prints by theme or color (or not) and experiment with size and texture! And if you get tired of the prints you currently have, swap them out and reuse the picture frames to keep your walls fresh and interesting.

3. Washi tape

It’s really amazing what you can create with just some Washi tape. It comes in a variety of patterns and colors, and can be easily removed from walls when you feel like creating another pattern! Check out this post for inspiration.

Original_Michelle-Edgemont-Dorm-Washi-Tape-jewelry-tree-wide_h_lg

4. Shop local artists or check out art fairs

Many local art shows or exhibits sell really unique, but also affordable pieces of art. Check out local art fairs in your area, events happening around college campuses, or find local artists online! You can find a piece no one else has and stay within your monthly budget.

5. Peel and stick wallpaper

Before you have flashbacks to your grandparent’s 1970’s wall paper, hear me out! There are some really great designs for modern wall paper, and it’s perfect for adding dimension to your walls. Some newer brands of wall paper also peel off for easy removal. Check out CB2, West Elm, or this online company called “Walls Need Love”.

goose-feathersPhoto credit: wallsneedlove.com

6. Mirrors

Mirrors are a great addition to any room, especially if your apartment is on the smaller side. Having mirrors makes any room appear larger, and mirrors also reflect light very well! Try adding one across from a window for this effect and experiment with size, frame color and design!

Also, check out this post on how to attach your art onto your walls without creating any nail holes that could risk your security deposit.

 

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Author My First Apartment
Anna R.

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Anna R. is currently a research assistant in a biology lab in the Bay Area and is interested in pursuing a Ph.D in Genetics. When she’s not daydreaming about food and browsing recipes on Pinterest, she likes to spend her free time dancing, paddle boarding and swimming. She’s been through a number of different housing situations and is eager to share her experiences with other MFA readers!

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