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December 24, 2016

7 Super Cool Hobbies That Require Zero Skills

If you have ever wished you had a hobby but you know you’re too lazy to pursue one, this is your lucky day. While a two-week intensive course on beekeeping or private guitar lessons sound super fun (and you’d probably look amazing busting out the guitar solo from “Free Bird” in full protective bee gear), we’re betting those things are pretty pricey and require some natural ability, like, say, manual dexterity or a non-fear of bees (which is totes a skill). So let’s lower the bar just a tad and consider one of these easy and cheap hobbies. Ebates has everything you need to get into some majorly cool hobbies while you rack up some Cash Back.

Meditation: If you can sit still and listen quietly to your own breath, you can meditate. Treat stress and get in touch with your body with only a few minutes of meditation a day. Up the ante by increasing your meditation time gradually and you’ll find your center in less time than you think. To help you get started, search for free meditation apps on your phone. Some provide calming sounds or voice direction to help you melt into your meditation practice.

Coloring: Coloring in adult coloring books, like this adorable one featuring calming cats, is another hobby for the overly stressed. All the hard work of illustrating is done for you, leaving you free to create with color and even tape it to the fridge if you do a gold-star job.

Podcasts: Now you can finally know what the heck all your friends have been talking about. Download podcasts for your car commute or morning train ride on any subject you choose. Go for popular podcasts like “This American Life“ and “Modern Love“, or find top podcasts on special interests like history, pop culture, comedy and more.

Hiking: You don’t have to be an Eagle Scout to get into exploring local trails and landscapes. Hiking is for everyone, and all you need is a map and a good pair of boots like these Danner cascade boots from REI. REI also has a great blog and buyer’s guide so you can find the perfect footwear for your next trek.

Upcycling: Even if you’ve never crafted or taken on a DIY project in your life, upcycling is as easy as it gets. Take the things you no longer use and give them new life with just a few supplies you can get at crafts stores like Michaels or Jo-Ann Fabric. To get you started, seek some inspiration from top blogs such as Upcycle That and ReFashionista.

Calligraphy: In this digital age, you can easily stand apart from the pack by mastering the thank-you note and spiffing them up with some calligraphy. It’s easy to learn and incredibly calming. This starter kit from Etsy will provide everything you need to get scrawling in style.

Blogging: Got some daily musings or rantings to share with the world? Build your own creative space while keeping your writing skills sharp by starting your own blog. WordPress has free blog templates, or you can create your own custom website with GoDaddy. Their site builder is easy to use, and web hosting is affordable for any budget.

Which of these hobbies piques your interest? Let us know with a comment below!

Prices and Cash Back percentages are subject to change.

November 3, 2016

Holiday Entertaining 101

Holiday entertaining doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive. You can find amazing Christmas party ideas online. When you keep these holiday entertaining fundamentals in mind, creating a seasonal party is easy. Whether your holiday party is your first time hosting or if you’re a seasonal pro, we have everything you need to throw a memorable, enjoyable and affordable party.

Here are seven unique tips, from cocktails to themes to decorations. Plus, when you shop at any of the stores below, you’ll earn Cash Back at Ebates, which means even more money in your pocket for the holidays!

1. DIY Decoration Party

The autumn and winter holidays are all about decorations. If you want to entertain your guests and send them away with a special gift, stock up on the DIY materials for everyone to make their own seasonal decorating must-have. It’s a great way to start the party, get everyone in the holiday spirit and break the ice while making something fun and unique. Shop Joann Fabrics for all your craft needs and be sure to use an Ebates promo code at checkout to save.

2. Light Up the Night

Alternative lighting is the key to creating a festive atmosphere. Set the mood for your guests as soon as they walk in the door by turning off harsh overhead lighting and featuring small, soft light sources like string lights or votive candles. You can find a variety of beautiful candles that spread the scents of the season at ILLUME Candles where promo codes can save you a bundle.

3. Fun and Games

Games are a great way to entertain kids of all ages and get your guests chatting and laughing. Pop culture trivia games break the ice for adults and easy art projects will captivate kids. Check out the learning corner at Are You Game for great activities for all grade levels and cruise the adult games section for grown-up activities.

4. Toast for the Host

A specialty drink is a great way to establish your holiday party themes. There are many seasonal classics to choose from like mulled cider or wine, hot cocoa or egg nog, but it’s sometimes more fun to think out of the box when it comes to cocktails. Margaritaville Cargo carries quality party drink makers that you can offer with a holiday twist.

5. Finger Food Favorites

Although everyone loves a good feast, a holiday party meal doesn’t have to be a sit-down affair. If you feature a buffet of finger foods and appetizers, not only will your guests enjoy more variety, but everyone can eat whenever they’re hungry and avoid the post-meal urge to nap. For inspiring Christmas party food ideas pick up a seasonal issue of your favorite lifestyle magazine at Meredith Magazines.

6. All that Paper Good Glory

Jazz up classic Christmas party food ideas by turning bitesize cheesecakes into little Santa hats by adding strawberries on top. Or cut out brownies into triangles and add a drizzle of green icing to make Christmas tree brownies. Have enough disposables so that your guests can sample the array and even take some for the road. Stock up on all the disposable dish ware you need at Kmart.

How To Save on Halloween Costumes, Candy, and Decorations

Halloween, a celebration of ghoulish fun, is a holiday anyone can enjoy. In preparation for Halloween festivities, shops and homes nationwide will soon transform into faux horror houses with cotton spider web adorned porches, bright orange jack-o’-lanterns, and doorways guarded by gargoyles. Whether you’re shopping for a simple costume to wear to the office party or supplies to create a masterfully frightful haunted house, read on for some money-saving tips for a Halloween celebration that’s so affordable it’s scary.

1. Buy in Bulk.

Halloween parties can be just as fun to host as to attend. If you’re throwing a monster ball or spooky bash in celebration of the ghoulish holiday, you’ll likely be in the market for large quantities of various party staples, from candy to décor.

You can score some major savings by buying in bulk at big-box stores like Walmart and Sam’s Club. If you don’t have a membership or simply prefer the convenience of having your items delivered to your door, you can also find some great deals on multi-packs at Amazon. By shopping through Ebates, you can also enjoy some awesome Cash Back and coupons as well.

2. Go thrifting.

While you probably don’t want to buy your candy corn or bite-sized Butterfingers second-hand, you can save quite a bundle shopping second-hand for other items. Many thrift stores have a number of Halloween specials for up to two months prior to the holiday, making it easy to find gently used decor and costumes for cheap.

This can be an especially valuable option for buying kids’ costumes, as children tend to outgrow their costumes or wear out their love of certain characters. Many thrift stores also offer discounts on your next purchase if you bring in a donation beforehand, providing an excellent excuse to do some house cleaning before the winter holidays.

3. Do it yourself.

Whether you’re a champion crafter or a first-timer, Halloween is the perfect time to concoct your own decor. A quick Google search or scroll through Pinterest will produce a slew of inspirational ideas for cool Halloween fixings, whether you’re looking for something fun and family-friendly or something a little spookier. You can find supplies, as well as ideas, from stores like JoAnn Fabrics and Michael’s, and enjoy Cash Back to boot!

4. Rent.

Your local community theater or holiday supply store likely offers rentals as well as for-sale items. If you’re looking to sport a historically accurate Marie Antoinette costume or want to display an ultra-realistic undead zombie on your lawn, this can be a good option to save some major cash.

5. Shop clearance for next year.

Just as there is a plethora of end-of-season or post-season clearance deals (think buying swimwear in September or a wool coat in March), equal opportunity for major savings lies in the days immediately following major holidays like Halloween and Christmas. So though it may seem counterintuitive to order costumes or decorations you likely won’t touch for another 11 months, it can save you some serious cash, and save you some time shopping for next year’s All Hallows’ Eve.

October 12, 2016

5 Spooktastic Haunted House Ideas

Decorating for Halloween doesn’t have to be expensive to be extraordinary. Classic creepiness can come for cheap. Find out how to make a haunted house for less and earn Cash Back at Ebates when you shop our top merchants. The key to turning your haunted house ideas into reality is to focus on ambiance. You don’t need expensive haunted house props when you have a clear idea of the kind of scene you want to create. To put some spook on your doorstep, take a look at five haunted house ideas inspired by some of our favorite horror films. Each movie matches to a store that offers incredible deals on the items you’ll need to recreate the look for less.

1. Beetlejuice (1988)

Proof that Halloween doesn’t have to be horrifying, this family friendly flick has Tim Burton’s classic creative touch. The plot centers around a house that transforms from a quaint country cottage to a modern art marvel and whose title character wears a trademark black-and-white stripe suit. To get the Beetlejuice look for your haunted house, decorate with stripes, spirals and throw in a few tentacles. Shop at joann.com and Michaels for fabric and paint to create stuffed fabric creatures and save with a promo code from Ebates.

2. Sinister (2012)

This film is absolutely not for kids or anyone who loves watching old home movies. The plot involves a bunch of old 8mm home movies that show an unfortunate family meeting its grisly end on the branches of creepy gnarled tree. This image is shown over and over again and it never stops being scary. A Sinister haunted house would feature flickering lights, white noise reels, hanging dolls, and bloody wallpaper. Pick up a roll of butcher paper from Office Depot and OfficeMax and hang long sheets splashed with red paint. Use a strobe light to set the mood and voila! You’ve officially created the spookiest haunted house in town.

3. Crimson Peak (2015)

Perhaps the most visually elaborate haunted house in movie history, the mansion of Crimson Peak is filled with beautiful things slowly going to rot. Crumbling walls, a leaky roof and a truly terrifying basement offset the home’s rich velvet upholstery, towering ceilings and huge staircases. To create the Crimson Peak, use very low lighting, let all the faucets drip and drape some cotton spider webs or thick fabrics over furniture. To complete the look, stock up on battery-powered flameless candles at Target.

4. The Others (2001)

The house in this film is enormous and claustrophobic at the same time. The residents of this huge mansion are two children who are allergic to light but certainly not dust. Every door in the house is locked, every window is covered by heavy drapes and the furniture is covered in white dust sheets. This makes for super easy haunted house ideas; all you need to do is drape all the furniture in white sheets and keep it dark. Don’t lock all the doors, though! When you shop at Kmart.com with a promo code from Ebates, you can find affordable bedding to cover everything and create an unforgettable haunted house.

5. House on Haunted Hill (1959)

This classic black and white film is full of great scary haunted house ideas that scream traditional Halloween. There are skeletons and cobwebs and black cats all around. The scary guys wiggle their fingers, the damsels are in distress and the bad guy has a dopey mustache. To get this classic haunted house look, embrace the obvious. Shop at Halloween Express to get everything you need from bat banners to skeletons in hats and things with eyes that glow. Happy Halloween!

August 6, 2016

How to Master the Art of Patched Denim

We’re sure you’ve noticed grown women reliving their punk rock high school days in the form of a patched denim jacket or vest and we’re here to say we officially love it. Why? Any fashion trend that is built around customization is key for creating a look that is “in” but still entirely you. Not to mention, denim vests are a great tool for dressing down evening wear for a daring daytime style, like this metallic dress/vest combo:

Want to try your hand at the patched denim trend but feeling intimidated? Let us walk you through the experience of planning, shopping, assembling and styling your very own patched jean jacket or vest while getting some Cash Back at Ebates. We’ll help you find the iron-on denim patches that tout your personality to a T and offer a few handy tips from first-hand experience.

To sleeve or not to sleeve? This may seem like a simple decision but here are a few questions to ask yourself when shopping for what will be the canvas to your wearable masterpiece.

What do you own that can be layered with a vest?
Which piece would you get more mileage out of?
Is your patched denim vest or jacket something you would like to wear regularly or only occasionally?
Would a dark wash or light wash coordinate more with your current wardrobe?

Once you have selected cut and color, now it’s time to dive into the infinite world of patched and pins!

This step can seem overwhelming but trust us, it’s too fun to be stressful. Here are three simple tips to remember when shopping around.

Pick your centerpiece or large patches first. Whether you have one big back piece or a few larger patches, select them first so you can get an idea of how much space your will have left for smaller pieces like enamel pins.
Choose a tone. Will most of your pieces be sweet, sassy or edgy? You can definitely mix it up but it helps to have a general theme in mind.
Pick your top five favorite things in the world. It could be pizza, Parks and Rec or Paris. It doesn’t matter. You can find a patch or pin to represent it.

Our Favorite Patch and Pin Stores on Etsy!

Strawberry Moth
That’s Sew Bethany
Wildflower + Co.
Sarah Duyer
For the Love of Patch
Buried Diamond
Lizmiera
Heartificial
Anchor and Stitch

You’ve got the outwear and the hardware. Now it’s time to patch. We recommend throwing a little party with a friend or two to make a couple of hours with the ironing board a little less tedious. We say hours because:

Not all patches are created equal. Some take longer to iron. Make sure to use the highest temp with full steam unless instructions for each patch note otherwise.
Ironing blind is hard. It is recommended for most patches that you not iron the front of the patch. That means you have to lay it upside down them place the jacket on top of it. If you have a glass table you can climb under, that really helps to see that the placement is correct before ironing.
Touch ups may be required. You can iron to the best of your ability and a patch could stubbornly refuse to fuse. Avoid the urge to rip your hair out by purchasing some Liquid Stitch from Joann beforehand. It really is a lifesaver when patched go rogue.

Your labor of love is officially done and now it’s time to strut. Let those colorful patches catch eyes from across the sidewalk by wearing neutrals underneath. And never, NEVER wear them with blue denim bottoms, regardless of wash. You remember that infamous Brittany and Justin look, right?

We get it. You’re a busy girl and you would much rather dish out a little extra money than get your hands dirty. Luckily, a lot of patched denim pieces are pretty reasonable and all of these come with Cash Back! It may not be your own hand-made baby but you can still give it a good home.

July 19, 2016

The Ultimate Guide to Teacher Discounts With Cash Back

Teachers, it goes without saying that you have one of the most important jobs in the entire world. You reward our kids with the endless gift of knowledge so it’s only fair that you get a few rewards yourself. Teacher discounts can be found at many stores, not only for school essentials and supplies, but also clothing and accessories so you can build your Back to School wardrobe for less. Check out this list of stores offering generous online discounts for teachers and Cash Back at Ebates.

Staples

Staples has a phenomenal reward program that offers up to 2% cash back (directly from Staples) on all of your purchases, free shipping with minimum purchase from staples.com and ink recycling rewards. Teachers score big with additional savings – including earning 10% back on teaching and art supplies – and bonuses that allow you to meet all of your classroom needs.

LOFT

Look your best at the front of the class with LOFT and shop with confidence that you’re saving money. LOFT gives back to educators by offering an additional 15% off every full-price purchase.

FedEx Office

The National Educators Discount Program allows teachers, faculty, professors and staff to take 15% off most FedEx Office services and products. Order online and save on the materials you need the most.

Jo-Ann

The free Teacher Rewards Discount Card offered by Jo-Ann’s offers educators 15% off all purchases.

Barnes & Noble

The B&N Educator Program allows teachers to save 20% off the publisher’s list price on all purchases for classroom use. On Educator Appreciation Days, the savings goes up to 25%.

Karen Kane

Stay stylish and comfortable this school year by shopping for the newest designer apparel at Karen Kane. Teachers receive 20% off all purchases.

STA Travel

One perk of being a teacher is having the summer off. Why not take that time to travel? STA Travel offers travel deals and products including discount flights on top airlines to teachers.

Lenovo

With the Academic Purchase Program, teachers can score discount laptops, tablets and desktops at Lenovo. Select your state and school for a list of eligible deals.

Prices and Cash Back Percentages are subject to change.

March 29, 2016

DIY Bride Guide for a Budget Wedding

Congratulations! Getting married is cause for major celebration! If you’ve already begun planning your big day, or even if you are just helping out, you probably know that wedding planning can be an expensive endeavor. But with these DIY wedding ideas and tips, you’ll be on the path to your happily-ever-after with some awesome savings along the way, thanks in part to Cash Back at Ebates.

Be Your Own Wedding Planner

Hiring a professional wedding planner generally comes with a jaw-dropping price tag. Spend that money elsewhere and rely on your own planning skills to make your budget wedding a reality. With some proper planning, the right online resources and some DIY wedding moxie, you can easily plan the gorgeous wedding of your dreams without compromising your bank account. Have a dedicated notebook, like The Knot Ultimate Wedding Planner, or digital document to keep yourself organized. Make a timeline of the tasks that need to get done early, like picking a venue and sending out save-the-dates to your friends and family. Try to tackle your to-do list consistently to keep the ball rolling and to make your wedding planning workload manageable. Don’t be afraid to delegate tasks to your friends and family if you’re feeling overwhelmed and make sure to allow ample time in anticipation of the inevitable challenges and hiccups along the way.

Print Your Own Paper Products

While many folks go straight to a calligrapher or a fancy print shop for their wedding invites and place cards, this is one of the easiest ways to save money with some well-planned DIY. Rather than shelling out an arm and a leg for paper goods subject to the dreaded wedding markup, shop cardstock in pre-cut sizes and print it yourself. If you have any inclination to buy a new printer, this is a great time to do it. You’ll be able to print professional looking invites, place cards, DIY save the date cards and DIY wedding invitations. Plus you’ll have a new printer when it’s all over! Staples has a fantastic selection of high quality printers and wedding paper products that won’t compromise style and will keep your budget wedding on track. Start early and keep an eye out for a printer or wedding invite promo code online at Staples and earn Cash Back from Ebates while you shop!

Save Big With DIY Centerpieces and Wedding Décor

Building your own centerpieces and other wedding decorations may seem like a daunting task but you can do it! How-to blogs on design and Pinterest are going to be your best source of inspiration and information to help you determine what you like and how to make it happen. Considering creating your own flower arrangements? You can save a bundle by shopping for vases or other unique containers at thrift stores. Head online to craft stores like Michaels to check out the selection of wedding decorations and DIY wedding centerpieces, plus get Cash Back from Ebates on your purchase! Michaels is also a great resource to get supplies for a DIY bride hanger and other wedding essentials. Save on your wedding décor by starting to plan it out as early as possible and cashing in on deals like a wedding centerpiece promo code or seasonal sales as they pop up.

Fashion Your Own Wedding Favors

Wedding favors help show your gratitude to each of your wedding guests for being there to help celebrate your special day. DIY wedding favors are an awesome way to say thanks and to help keep your budget wedding on target. Making something special for your guests is a big task so this is a great place to enlist the help of friends, family and the wedding party. Check out go-to DIY wedding favorites like Jo-Ann Fabrics for photo favor supplies and save a bundle with a frames promo code to give each guest a classic keepsake. Whatever wedding favors you pick, be sure to get Cash Back at Ebates to save even more on your DIY wedding. Over the course of the next few months, you and your helpers can easily make all the favors during just a few crafternoons. Enjoy the wedding prep process, it will be over before you know it!

March 15, 2016

7 Secrets to Finding Spring Clothing Deals

Spring has finally sprung! Whether you’re planning to jet off somewhere fabulous for spring break or just want to get out and take a stroll in the recently returned sunshine, spring is the perfect time to give your wardrobe a much needed pick-me-up. If your ambitions of new spring fashion have your budget quaking in its boots, don’t fret just yet. Spring generally means flowers and more sunlight, but did you know it also comes with some pretty incredible fashion deals? If you know where to look, spring fashion coupons and clothing sales are ripe for the picking on everything from basics to swimwear. Wondering where to get started? Check out these seven insider secrets and you’ll be on your way to the perfect spring fashion makeover at a price that will make the most of any budget.

1. Join the Club

Staying in touch with your favorite brands simply by entering your email address can mean some serious spring fashion savings. Many stores will reward customers for loyalty or even just for signing up for their email newsletters. Get incredible spring fashion coupons, spring sample sale alerts and exclusive early access to spring clothing sales when you register online with your favorite brands. Signing up for store loyalty programs can also mean that you get reward points for shopping that can later be redeemed for a clothing promo code or freebie. Spring shopping can easily turn into enough points for fabulous fashion savings later on in the year!

2. Take Advantage of End of Season Sales

Mark your calendars! As the seasons shift, stores will usually knock down the prices on the previous season’s apparel and spring is no exception. Many retailers will move into warm weather apparel and swimsuits as soon as spring starts and put their cooler weather apparel on sale. If you happen to live in a region where spring doesn’t exactly equal bathing suit weather, this can mean some awesome clothing deals for you! Stock up on warmer wear or even the apparel that came out in prior seasons that still fits in with ongoing fashion trends and you’re in for a steal!

3. Shop Top Fashion Outlet Stores

If you’re looking for the top brands this spring but don’t want to pay top price, make sure you cash in on the incredible spring clothing deals available at popular online outlet stores. High fashion stores are full of gorgeous accessories and clothes on sale that will have you looking like you stepped out of a fashion magazine without the top fashion prices. Plus, if you activate Cash Back at Ebates at any of these stores, your spring fashion budget will go even farther!

4. Update Your Accessories

Even if you don’t have the cash to do a full spring wardrobe overhaul, updating your accessories and accent pieces can go a long way toward freshening up your look. Give those drab fall and winter outfits a fun spring accessory like a bright pair of flats, some sparkly jewelry or a scarf with a cheerful print. Check out stores like J.Crew for a wealth of fun accents that won’t break the bank and will score you some Cash Back.

5. Cash in on Coupon Codes

When it comes to stretching your spring fashion budget, coupons and promo codes are going to be your best friends. Plus, spring fashion coupons are easy to find if you know where to look! Keeping an eye on the store’s homepage will ensure that you don’t miss any deals, but no one really has time to constantly watch for that spring accessory promo code you’re after. While this is another reason you’ll want to sign up for store e-newsletters, if you’re overwhelmed with emails, don’t forget that you can simply head over to Ebates for a full listing of available codes and sales from all of your favorite online stores. Make Ebates your first stop for spring fashion shopping and never miss out on an apparel promo code or spring accessory coupon code again!

6. Check Out Fashion Blogs to Get the Look for Less

Staying up to date with top fashion trends is fun, but it can mean serious danger for your bank account balance. As you know, some high fashion just isn’t affordable, even with major clothing sales. The good news is that this doesn’t necessarily mean that you can’t get the look you’re after at a great price. The secret? Check out fashion blogs and magazines with features on how to get the look for less. Most retailers will produce similar garments and accessories as top fashion labels, so you really don’t have to spend top dollar to keep up to date. Finding a great deal on the looks you want and getting clothes on sale is a much easier task at a trend and wallet friendly store.

7. Think Outside the Box & Get Creative

Still not finding the savings you’re seeking? Tap into your creative side and make your own spring fashion accessories! Start collecting ideas on Pinterest or your other favorite creative hub and then head off to the craft store! Stores like Michaels and joann.com both have a terrific selection of DIY fashion supplies that can help fuel your projects, like headbands, faux flowers and jewelry essentials. Whether you are adding a little sparkle and a flowery touch to an old clutch or making a bright new statement necklace, you’ll stand out from the pack with your truly unique creation and keep up with spring fashion trends at a fraction of the cost!

February 4, 2016

How to Decorate an Apartment on a Budget

Whether it’s a cozy studio, large loft or itty-bitty apartment, we all want to infuse our space with some personal style. Adding a little attitude to your ambiance doesn’t have to come with a hefty price tag thanks to these simple apartment decorating tips on a budget from your friends at Ebates. Here’s how to decorate an apartment easily and affordably.

Mirror, Mirror On The Wall – Particularly useful if you’re in tight quarters, a wall mirror can create the illusion of space while adding interest to plain walls. Your local thrift store is the perfect place to start. Refinish an old frame with paint or glue on accents like shells, tiles or rope to achieve your perfect look. Mix and match tall rectangular mirrors with ovals and other shapes to bring any room to life.

Bye, Bye Bare Walls – You don’t have to be an artist to add a little flair to your lair. Grab a pack of affordable canvases from a local craft store like Michaels and dress them up while saving with Cash Back at Ebates. Find interesting fabric swatches that speak to your style from places like Joann.com and wrap the canvas for instant art. Simply glue the fabric to the back of the wooden frame and you’ve got statement pieces perfect for living room decorating ideas. Use fabrics with funky texture for some fun, go monochromatic or perk up your place with pretty prints. No Picasso painting skills required.

Make a Splash With Shower Curtains – Not finding the curtains you want to cover windows or boring blinds? Shower curtains come in a variety of daring designs and materials and make a fun alternative to expensive window treatments. Plus, you can use them as affordable room dividers to create separation in style. Remember our canvas tip from above? Create a huge statement piece by wrapping an oversized canvas with a shower curtain. They’re super versatile and easy to clean!

Lighten Up – String lights can easily and affordably brighten up any space. Hang strands sparingly from wall to wall for a simple ceiling accent or cluster them together and hang them from the ceiling for a whimsical look. Perfect for adding interest to a wall, above a headboard or draping on a shelf or mantel.

Perk Up With Paper Lanterns – If you’re on the hunt for affordable apartment decorating tips, paper lanterns are the perfect answer! With lanterns in an array of sizes and colors, they’re ideal for everything from living room decorating ideas to adding adorable accents to a kitchen nook or office space. Cluster an array of your favorite shades or hang monochromatic paper lanterns from your ceiling for some elegant ambiance. Perfect for kids’ rooms too! Little ones love choosing their favorite colors for some fun flair.

Oldies But Goodies – You can find tons of hidden treasures at local used book and music stores. Peruse old record bins for eye-catching album artwork featuring unique designs, artists and colors. Frame the album sleeves or adhere them directly to walls for some fun and funky wall décor. Grab a bunch and arrange them in a symmetrical layout for a bold way to liven up plain walls. Old books can add a vintage accent to shelves and tables. Visually appealing covers and various sizes will combine to create interesting decorations with a classic twist.

Serve Up Style With Plates – Decorating on a tight budget means getting creative! Plates don’t just belong in the kitchen cupboard. Create a wall collage by mixing and matching colorful plates in different sizes and adhering them to an accent wall. Use adhesive or attach wires and hang plates in an interesting configuration for a simple yet fun way to refresh a wall. Use plates with different prints and textures or stick with one style for a bold piece of DIY wall art.

Make Any Room Bloom – Simple accents can add up to chic style. Use clear containers or extra mason jars from your kitchen cupboards as small vases, which are perfect for your favorite petite petals. Line a window, shelf or create an easy DIY centerpiece when you cluster jars together. Bonus: faux flowers add an affordable, lasting touch. Get extra decorating leverage by using glass jars for easy candleholders, too. Just drop in a tea light and add a glow to your space.

Cut a Rug – Got funky floors you can’t permanently update? No worries. Fabric remnants are an easy way to add a rug without blowing your budget. Clean up the edges and cut the fabric to whatever size fits your space. Glue on an anti-slip rubber backing (that old yoga mat you have hanging around will work wonders!) and voila — an affordable DIY rug perfect for your bathroom, kitchen or living room floor.

Whether you’re searching for living room decorating ideas, want to beautify your bedroom or kick up your kitchen, these easy and affordable ideas will transform your space in no time. What are some of your favorite apartment decorating ideas?