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Debbiedoo's: Design on a dime! {Budget decorating} that's what I do & why!

Debbiedoo's

Diy, thrifty home decor decorating ideas on a budget. Painting furniture, stenciling projects. Turning trash to treasure.

Saturday, November 12, 2011

Design on a dime! {Budget decorating} that's what I do & why!

Design on a dime is  one my all time favorite HGTV shows.
 I absolutely love it!
 I share a lot of design on a dime projects here at Debbiedoo's.
Thrift store finds, free finds, dollar tree, you name it, you probably have seen it here.

Design on a Dime

 Design on a Dime has never been more relevant than it is right now.  People are spending less money and more time at home. 




{Goodwill table, & free pallet above}

There was a time I could shop and buy more.
 However, even more times than Not, I chose not too spend a lot of money.
Since the bad economy, which has been for the past 5 years basically, my husbands income has even taken a hit.
"Over time", was once a plenty for him.  In fact so much so, he was barely home.
There were days he worked 23 days in a row. We had what we called our "FUN" money.
We ate out when we wanted, took weekend trips when we wanted, and if there was something we wanted to buy, we could if we so chose to.


Because we knew there would be overtime next time.
Those good ole' days are since gone.
Don't get me wrong, my husband has a  good job, and I thank GOD for that. I count my blessings every day, believe me I do. In fact, not one time have I complained or even said I miss overtime.
It was a luxury we had and I am thankful for those days.
I never based our expenses and cost of living on his overtime...
A steady paycheck is always a good thing.



I remember one time long ago, when I was active on the Site Rate my space, I received a comment....
 " Why do you buy all this junk"
 You can obviously afford better"?
Well you see, I love it, and I love the creative aspect of transforming it.
I make it my own, and have fun in the process.
HONESTLY, even if I was a millionaire, I would still be the same. Probably just have a bigger load of junk in one trip.
"You can't teach an old dog new tricks" as they say!~


What I am getting at is the fact that a lot of people have been affected in some way or another. I see it in our small community.  Businesses,coming and going, plaza's built up, yet never occupied,etc. etc.
Loss of jobs, cuts in pay, mortgage payments late, foreclosures, etc.
It's been bad for many!


Blogher recently asked me to write and help spread the word...
 BlogHer is proudly partnering with the folks at Starbucks and Opportunity Finance Network to get the word out about the new "Create Jobs for USA" initiative that is now launched. 

What is this all about?

In a nutshell, Starbucks is donating five million dollars to seed a fund at the Opportunity Finance Network, which in turn will provide capital grants to select Community Development Financial Institutions (CDFIs). The CDFIs will provide loans to underserved community businesses, including: small business loans, community center financing, housing project financing and microfinance. Beginning November 1st, you may donate to this fund through the createjobsforusa.org website, or at Starbucks, and 100% of your donation will go directly to the fund. Donors who contribute $5 or more will receive a red, white and blue wristband with the message “Indivisible.”  The really cool thing about this is that every $5 donation will result in $35 in financing to support community businesses, because the CDFI lenders will issue $30 in financing, on average, for each $5 donation.  You can read about some of the fantastic success stories at the Create Jobs for America site:  http://www.createjobsforusa.org/Success-Stories/success-stories,default,pg.html.


GO check it out!



In the meantime, do know, you can have a nice home on a small budget! Just use your creative juices and a little imagination.
Look beyond the piece, beyond the color...
Goodwill, salvation army, are all great go to places to start.
Some of my favorite things in our home, are the cheapest of the decor.
If you would like to share how you have been affected by the economy, by all means, do share,
Enjoy your Saturday.


Labels: ,

56 Comments:

Anonymous Anonymous said...

Love the pallet that you turned into a shelf....sweet! I agree that you don't have to spend a lot of money to make your home look nice. In fact, letting those creative juices flow is a good thing!

November 12, 2011 at 9:24 AM  
Blogger Kathy said...

This is something I am definately going to do, it's marvelous that starbucks and other businesses are doing this. I have always admired your sense of style and your creativity and looked up to you ofr having that creative gene and doing something with it, it gives those of us who can't such inspiration. This is one of my all time favorite posts girl! Thank you for all your many hours of dedication to this blog so I can enjoy all your projects.

November 12, 2011 at 9:27 AM  
Anonymous Anonymous said...

and this is why we love you Debbie doo's.
What a wonderful post,

November 12, 2011 at 9:33 AM  
Blogger Homeroad said...

Great message Debbie! I always say too that if I were a millionaire I would just have a bigger house to put all my rusty things into!
:) Susan

November 12, 2011 at 9:37 AM  
Blogger Jan@southernjunkin' said...

Wonderful post and it hits home with so many of us. I've always been a thrifter and love it. Thanks to Starbucks and their program. And thanks to you for sharing!

November 12, 2011 at 9:44 AM  
Blogger Kerin said...

Good stuff!
I feel the same way, and always have.
I feel that I have a stewardship to appreciate how hard my sweet hubby works and to make the most out of every dollar.
Besides....where's the fun in buying something off the shelf, or out of a catalog, that thousands of other people have in their homes?

No cookie cutter decorating for me, thank you very much :)

November 12, 2011 at 9:52 AM  
Blogger Wendi @ Classic Chic Home said...

Great post, Debbie. You're so my kind of girl! Thanks for sharing!
~ Wendi ~ xo

November 12, 2011 at 9:57 AM  
Blogger Sonny G said...

This post meant a lot to me and I wanted to tell you that in a post I'll be doing soon, I'm not copying you when I tell the story of my past year and where it took me, spirtually. Things arent what they once were for many folks but even in hard times , they can be BETTER.

see ya soon
xoxo
Sonny

November 12, 2011 at 9:57 AM  
Blogger Melanie said...

It seems the hard times have hit so many folks, Debbie. As you know, my husband is a pastor, and our family has always has a small income. We have always shopped at Goodwill and thrift stores. They have so many nice things, and yes, some of my favorite items have come from there.
The Starbucks program sounds wonderful. We definitely need more jobs here in America!

November 12, 2011 at 10:07 AM  
Blogger Ribbonwood Cottage said...

Hi Debbie, what a great blog, love it. We have a brand new pallet that came under the 1 ton tote of chicken feed...can't wait to sneak it to my private work area (behind the house...hahaha) and make a shelf out of it! yay. Love Starbucks and what they are doing...thanks for sharing and spreading the word.
Blessings,
Debbie

November 12, 2011 at 10:09 AM  
Blogger At The Picket Fence said...

Fabulous post Debbie. I often think how would I "define" my style and in reality it's getting a designer look for way, way less. Knock off, upcycle, recycle and re-use have become my favorite words! You always create such lovely amazing things "on a dime" and you are very talented at it my friend!

Heather

November 12, 2011 at 10:15 AM  
Blogger Blondie's Journal said...

This is a great post, Debbie! I admire your honesty. Times are hard for everyone...I heard that Goodwill is low on donations, people are selling their own things. Giving back is a guilt free way to spend our money, even if it is only the little bit we have left from a paycheck. I really admire Starbucks and it helps that I keep them in business with my business!! lol!

XO,
Jane

November 12, 2011 at 10:16 AM  
Blogger Marty@A Stroll Thru Life said...

Fantastic post and yes I am all for the Create Jobs for USA program. Such a worthy cause. I love that you are spreading the word. Hugs, marty

November 12, 2011 at 10:23 AM  
Blogger Kelly said...

I agree with you about everyone having to become more thrifty these days. I heard that consignment stores are popping up more than ever due to the change in the market. People want to make money off their cast-offs as well as buy something cheaper for themselves. That's my "thrift" of choice. I like consignment stores and antique malls.

November 12, 2011 at 10:24 AM  
Blogger Kathy said...

Debbie -Thanks for sharing this program with your readers. I've signed up to receive their emails and will support the business involved and donate. This post really came from your heart. You have inspired so many of us and have so many "copycat" followers. Copycat meant in the most admirable way :-)

November 12, 2011 at 10:24 AM  
Blogger NanaDiana said...

I'm with you, Debbie! You said a blog full here! I am a lot like you- have had the opportunity to own the best yet still prefer to do my own thing...and buy/fix what I love. I think that is what makes a home one's own. Anyone can go out and, with enough money, purchase everything they need to make a BEAUTIFUL home...but it doesn't put "them" IN it.

Blessings to you- AND to Starbucks! yeah...You KNOW I love my Starbucks! xo Diana

November 12, 2011 at 10:27 AM  
Blogger Lynne said...

It's all about neighbors helping neighbors. I have only been a member of the blogging community for about a year now. I feel like I have hundreds of next door neighbors and friends.
All are making our world a better place. You are no exception, Debbie.
What a wonderful post! I am proud that Starbucks is a company from our state. My brother worked in the first store back in 197O's. I love that Mr Schultz is helping small businesses!

i'm sipping my fave Cafe Verona, as I write.

...and not meaning to overlook your upcycle style. The crate and typing table niche is fantastic!
~Lynne
[w/L]

November 12, 2011 at 10:51 AM  
Blogger Gypsy Heart said...

Before I forget!! I found those flickr lightbulbs at Walmart yesterday ~ I sure did ~ and they are $2.88 there. Just an FYI for you and your mom! :-)

Now....in regards to your post:

Thank you, Debbie! I know I say it over & over but you do such an incredible job with very little ~ and I totally appreciate that. I see so many blogs where so much $$$ is spent and it makes me wonder if they realize it could all be gone tomorrow?? Of course, I'm older and have been through some rough times. Being retired is absolute Heaven, however, expenses increase and there is no extra coming in. My 401K tanked with the recent stock market plunges and that is serious business...along with being so ding dang scary!
There's really no guarantees now, regardless of one's career. That's why I wonder about those that spend so much.

It's fun to me to make something "work" when it was going to be tossed or donated.

Thanks again my friend!
xo
Pat

November 12, 2011 at 11:14 AM  
Blogger Gypsy Heart said...

This comment has been removed by the author.

November 12, 2011 at 11:14 AM  
Blogger Gypsy Heart said...

P.S. I so admire Starbucks for doing this and yes, I will contribute. It's a small amount to make such a HUGE difference in the lives of others.

xo
Pat

November 12, 2011 at 11:18 AM  
Blogger Unknown said...

I always say that anyone can spend money but not everyone can make something look good.

November 12, 2011 at 11:25 AM  
Blogger bj said...

I am right there, holding your hand as we skip to all the thrift stores. Some of the warmest, most comfortable and full of personality, homes have been the homes of thrifters.
I can't tell you how many young ladies ask me HOW TO GET THE LOOK of a room, built over time. I just smile and tell them all about thrifting.
I love it, too...and, no matter the amt of money I had, I wouldn't want to buy all new furniture...no matter how beautiful it was.
xo bj

November 12, 2011 at 11:26 AM  
Blogger DIYbyDesign said...

Great post. Even when things were good I was always careful about what we spent. I love all the projects you do. I think creative decorating is so much better anyhow.

November 12, 2011 at 11:32 AM  
Blogger Peggy said...

Great post Debbie. I'm like you in that I love creating something to make it my own. I love checking out the resale shops, flea markets, etc. to see what I can reinvent. We are both retired now so there has been a definite change in our life style, but it doesn't mean we still cannot have fun, and we are so thankful for all that we have. Peggy

November 12, 2011 at 12:03 PM  
Blogger Pink Roses and Teacups said...

What a wonderful post Debbie, and what a great thing for Starbucks to do. Thanks for spreading the word. I agree, that anyone can spend a lot of money, but it takes creativity to make something out of nothing. Love the pallet idea too! I am thrifty girl too. Hubby had a lot of overtime at one time too, but now he is retired and just working part time.

Debbie

November 12, 2011 at 12:06 PM  
Blogger linda said...

great topic Deb love starbucks they are awsome for doing this .things are hard for all today the cost of liveing has gone up and the paycheck has gone down .you know i love to thrift always have and you never know what you may come across.As a matter of fact i went to the new savers and scored real chanel vintage earing oh the thrill i felt like i hit the lottery .And the lady told me tuesdays are sr day 25%off

November 12, 2011 at 12:16 PM  
Blogger Savannah Granny said...

I am heading over to support this cause.
The bad economy over the past three years has negatively affected several members of our family.
I have personally decided to no longer be the consummate consumer. Our good Lord has blessed me with so much more than I deserve. So much of what I possess is decadent and so much more than ample.
That said, I have aways enjoyed shopping the thrifts and consignments. They are good value and are both helping others and the environment.
With so many needing help, I look close to home then give to causes that will help the most people. A job building charity will benefit legions.
Thanks Debbie for all that you do.

November 12, 2011 at 12:35 PM  
Blogger Dawn said...

Why buy new, when it is funner to recreated the old, and used. I think your thrifted things are great:) Keep up the good work

November 12, 2011 at 1:55 PM  
Blogger Pam - @diy Design Fanatic said...

Good post, Debbie! When I was working full time a few years ago, I didn't have any time to do many creative projects at home. Even though we lost 40% of our income when the economy tanked, I've been able to decorate our house and do some fun projects because there's time to do it now. Of course that has meant thinking outside the box, searches on Craigslist, visiting SA and GW, but it's been a lot of fun, especially sharing it in the blog format and making new friends. The best thing about blogging is being able to share projects and encourage others to be creative and to try something new.

November 12, 2011 at 2:47 PM  
Blogger La said...

Great post, Debbie. I couldn't agree more. Anyone can decorate if money is no issue, but it takes creativity to decorate on a dime. I think thrifty decorating takes on a more personal and individual ambiance.

November 12, 2011 at 2:58 PM  
Blogger Kristin @ My Uncommon Slice of Suburbia said...

What a wonderful program, thank you for sharing with us!
RMS...oh my, so many mean people over there thanks to them though I started a blog (tee hee).
I love junk and always will, it's the thrill of the hunt without the pricetag :)
Enjoy your weekend and I have a little suprise for you here :)
http://www.myuncommonsliceofsuburbia.com/2011/11/light-and-doorcheck.html

XOXO

November 12, 2011 at 3:18 PM  
Blogger Olive said...

You are very good at thrifting and enjoy it too which is terrific. Thanks for telling me about this.

November 12, 2011 at 3:56 PM  
Blogger Kim @ Savvy Southern Style said...

So true so true. My husbands job has taken a huge hit in the last three years and even though it is s-l-o-w-l-y getting better we will never have the income or the nice trips we once did. Like you I count my blessings that he still has a job to go to unlike many. He has even had to make many many cuts at his job in order to survive. I think it makes us much wiser in the way we spend these hard earned dollars.

November 12, 2011 at 4:15 PM  
Blogger Debbie said...

I understand about a scaled back income, Debbie. Hubby retired a year ago, and things aren't what they used to be here. But, you learn to live within your means. You learn what you need, as opposed to what you "want".
Makes life more interesting.
You always have the best ideas for decorating on a dime!!!! and are so gracious in sharing your ideas.

November 12, 2011 at 5:42 PM  
Blogger Linda @ Itsy Bits And Pieces said...

This sounds like a very worthwhile venture, Debbie! The economy has affected so many...each of my kids has experienced extended periods of unemployment, thankfully each has a good job right now. But we have three generations living in our home right now, as do many, many households across America. And you know me...I love re-use and vintage...and most new stuff is just cookie cutter to me!

November 12, 2011 at 6:00 PM  
Blogger Grammy Goodwill said...

Thanks for sharing this post, Debbie. I've always been frugal, and it scares me to see so many young people with such big credit card debt because they want all these expensive things. I've only shopped Goodwill since we moved to Roanoke 6 years ago, and I love the thrill of the hunt! (I also love not having debt.)

November 12, 2011 at 6:17 PM  
Blogger Ann from On Sutton Place said...

Oh dear Debbie this was a wonderful post. In our case, we are still digging out from 8 years of private college tuition. My husband planned very well but it was still hard. He is a self-employed attorney and his firm has definitely felt the crunch. My school staff did receive a very small raise but it was totally eaten up by the rise in our health care. If it's not one thing it's another. I agree though...we are so blessed and in a much better place than many. For that I am grateful. Happy Sunday!

November 12, 2011 at 6:31 PM  
Blogger laxsupermom said...

The rough economy has hit us too. CG hasn't taken a cut in pay or hours, but property taxes and health insurance go up every year so we're actually moving backwards. I love this new Starbucks program! Thanks for sharing.

November 12, 2011 at 6:38 PM  
Blogger An Oasis in the Desert said...

That's a really great message, Debbie. You can really come up with some "pearls!" Hope you are having a great weekend.
:) CAS

November 12, 2011 at 7:08 PM  
Blogger ~Lavender Dreamer~ said...

What a well written post! I love what you've said and totally agree! I don't 'need' a lot of things so it's fun for me to shop for things out of the ordinary and treasures to enjoy! Being retired, I sure don't have money to waste! ♥

November 12, 2011 at 7:55 PM  
Blogger Mimi said...

Thank you for your wonderful, thoughtful post and for getting the word out about the Starbucks initiative, Debbie! Our family business has to temporarily lay off some workers from time to time. It's so wonderful to have all their smiling faces around when they can work! I would love to see manufacturing come back - I know it never will completely. But a little more would be nice.

November 12, 2011 at 8:32 PM  
Blogger Rooms by Ann said...

I so agree with you, times are tough so we all cut back,But you are right I think even if I was filthy rich I would be shopping at the GW,CL and any other thrift shop,I just can't go back to shopping any other way.The prices cant be beaten.

November 12, 2011 at 8:40 PM  
Blogger Kathy @ Creative Home Expressions said...

I hear ya, Debbie! I probably could afford to buy the things I love and see from the Ballard's catalog, but it would make me sick to spend that kind of money on something that I KNOW I can either find cheaper or make myself. Plus, I think that when you remake or make-over something you've gotten {from Goodwill, for instance} makes it more unique than the other thousands of people who have the same exact store bought item.

November 12, 2011 at 9:59 PM  
Blogger Gina said...

You always have a way of saying things honestly, effectively & in a down to earth fashion.

Well said, my friend. Great post!

November 12, 2011 at 10:34 PM  
Blogger Jane@Cottage at the Crossroads said...

Debbie,
Thanks for spreading the word about this wonderful program of Starbucks. It's very admirable that a business is trying to do what it can to help America. The banks are just holding onto their money and not making loans or mortgages. My husband lost his job 4 years ago, so we have really been affected by the downturn. We sold our big house and moved to our small cottage. It was the best thing that could have happened to us. And Debbie, you are one creative gal and an inspiration to many!

November 13, 2011 at 1:10 AM  
Blogger Formerly known as Frau said...

Great project! I agree you never know when your income will change. I have been only shopping thrifts, flea markets etc.. for three years and I have found more treasures than I can talk about. I'm kicking my self for all the years wasted. It's been perfect especially since I have changed my style aka theme of my home. Great post.

November 13, 2011 at 7:46 AM  
Blogger Vicki said...

What wonderful post! Thanks for sharing this.

November 13, 2011 at 8:54 AM  
Blogger The Decorative Dreamer said...

Thanks for telling us about this initiative Debbie. I love hearing about more support for building a better America.

I have always thought anyone could decorate a home beautifully with a pocket full of cash. But it takes a little more creativity to do that on a dime, which by the way is one of those shows I really enjoyed too. I'm with you, I would still be a junker/thriftier even if I did have more to spend. It's much more fun and interesting!

November 13, 2011 at 9:14 AM  
Blogger Linda@Coastal Charm said...

I'm right there with ya!!! My favorite things are the ones that I got for pennies or FREE:) Just because we are blessed and have good income...it's still FUN thriftin'!!!!

Blessings,
Linda

November 13, 2011 at 9:37 AM  
Blogger Anita said...

I can so relate, Debbie. My husband, too, had a great job that provided a lot of overtime. Third shift, seven days a week. Now we are retired and on a fixed income. I get so many ideas from your blog and truly appreciate the fact that you share your talents with us.

November 13, 2011 at 9:39 AM  
Blogger Donna~One Simple Country Girl said...

My hubby and I have been one of "those" families who have suffered in this economy. I was out of work for several months earlier this year and things got bad quickly! The small amount of savings we had vanished quickly and we are still struggling to play "catch up". Thankfully, I am working again and things are starting to look better, slowly but surely. I, too, thank God for all my blessing each and every day. I may not have the biggest house or the fanciest furnishings, but I love what I do have and am thankful for blogs such as yours that keep it real and show us how we can take ordinary things and make them extraordinary! Keep on doing what you are doing, you inspire me!!!

November 13, 2011 at 12:16 PM  
Blogger Unknown said...

I bow to you oh, clever one. Loved this post as it spoke the truth to my heart. From one G.W. lover to another I know just where your thinking comes from. Kindred sister Kate

November 13, 2011 at 12:43 PM  
Blogger Pam Kessler said...

Great post! I think a home with only the best of the best store bought stuff doesn't look like a real home. Adding in things that we make or thrift gives it more of a personality.

November 13, 2011 at 4:39 PM  
Blogger reFresh reStyle said...

Great post, I feel the same! I see expensive decor and think about ways to recreate it! I Ike saving money and being creative. Thank goodness for Starbucks!
Debbie

November 14, 2011 at 7:57 AM  
Blogger Anita Diaz said...

Debbie, that is awesome, awesome!! What a great post! I think these are the times we find out what is really important in life. Thanks for being you!!!!

November 14, 2011 at 11:17 PM  
Blogger Eclectically Vintage said...

Thanks for sharing your story and the great project of starbucks! And I love your old typewriter table!
Kelly

December 24, 2011 at 2:25 PM  

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