The shopping list for a freshman going off to college is long before adding to dorm dcor is even considered. Once essentials such as tuition, books and meals are paid for, there usually isn't much left in the budget for the creature comforts of home. Thankfully, there are ways around breaking the bank in the name of interior decorating. First off, call your roommate-to-be and compare notes about what you each have to offer. Once you are clear on what remains on the shopping list, make sure that you take care of your needs before your wants. All that's left to do is get creative.
1. Don't drive all over the place in search of deals. Shopping online not only saves you precious time, it also saves gas. You can comparison shop all you want with just a few key strokes. Then if you still have things left on your list to pick up, go no farther than the Salvation Army or thrift shop that is nearest to campus. Resale shops are a treasure trove of belongs from students who have graduated or moved into furnished apartments.
2. Cover up boring walls. Painting dorms isn't usually an option, but there are several other ways to bring some color and visual interest to dorm walls. Fabric, tacked into the ceiling against a wall, adds texture, warmth and any color that you and your roommate can agree on. Or, how about starting a collage? All you need is a big piece of foam board hung on the wall and the rest will evolve throughout the year as you college concert tickets, pictures and posters. What's more, if you come across a friend who is an art student, it can't hurt to ask them to contribute to the project.
3. Floors, to cover or not to cover? Most people would opt for the warmth and comfort of some kind of fabric on the floor to ward off cold winters away from home. Carpet, however, can be costly because you're paying for areas under beds and furniture that don't need to be covered. Instead, look for throw rugs that are big enough to cover open areas and offer a comfortable place to sprawl and read.
4. Misc. items. How about a hand-decorated trash can? Simply buy a plain heavy plastic one and use paint and sponges to create your own look. For soft lighting, ask your parents for some old table lamps that they aren't using anymore and simply buy a new lampshade instead of an entire lamp. If you're using milk crates for storing items, weave wide ribbon or raffia in and out of the openings to soften the look and add color.
Creativity is the thrifty student's best friend when it comes to putting together your first home away from home. You have a big year ahead of you, so do your best to create a nurturing living environment as you go along.
1. Don't drive all over the place in search of deals. Shopping online not only saves you precious time, it also saves gas. You can comparison shop all you want with just a few key strokes. Then if you still have things left on your list to pick up, go no farther than the Salvation Army or thrift shop that is nearest to campus. Resale shops are a treasure trove of belongs from students who have graduated or moved into furnished apartments.
2. Cover up boring walls. Painting dorms isn't usually an option, but there are several other ways to bring some color and visual interest to dorm walls. Fabric, tacked into the ceiling against a wall, adds texture, warmth and any color that you and your roommate can agree on. Or, how about starting a collage? All you need is a big piece of foam board hung on the wall and the rest will evolve throughout the year as you college concert tickets, pictures and posters. What's more, if you come across a friend who is an art student, it can't hurt to ask them to contribute to the project.
3. Floors, to cover or not to cover? Most people would opt for the warmth and comfort of some kind of fabric on the floor to ward off cold winters away from home. Carpet, however, can be costly because you're paying for areas under beds and furniture that don't need to be covered. Instead, look for throw rugs that are big enough to cover open areas and offer a comfortable place to sprawl and read.
4. Misc. items. How about a hand-decorated trash can? Simply buy a plain heavy plastic one and use paint and sponges to create your own look. For soft lighting, ask your parents for some old table lamps that they aren't using anymore and simply buy a new lampshade instead of an entire lamp. If you're using milk crates for storing items, weave wide ribbon or raffia in and out of the openings to soften the look and add color.
Creativity is the thrifty student's best friend when it comes to putting together your first home away from home. You have a big year ahead of you, so do your best to create a nurturing living environment as you go along.
About the Author:
Julie Clark Robinson is a highly prolific higher education writer. Her special interests include online college degree programs for adults, and financial aid opportunities for students enrolled in online degree programs.
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