You’re looking for the next big thing in decorating and design aren’t you, but you want your new look to be affordable

too, not to mention easy to create, so – go for stripes. Argh! Yes that’s my first reaction too but don’t be afraid, because here are a few simple ways to make stripes your decorating friend.

To start with, you obviously have to use the stripes sparingly, so before you go wallpapering your lounge in stripy

wallpaper or marking out the spacing on your bookcase, stop and look at where you can subtly incorporate st ripes into your home decorating. It can be as easy as a few striped throw cushions or a rug, picking up one colour from your couch or the fabric from your lounge room furniture.

Or you can use stripes to draw attention to a feature of your home, for example, do you have large exposed beams creating pillars throughout your home, or bordering a hallway or alcove? Then now is the time to whip out your stripped wall paper and cover these beams or pillars with striking stripes. Choosing colours which match your existing decor is a safe way to start, or you can choose stripes in neutral colours like black and white.

For a more temporary, and more creative stripy option you can get out your paint brush and stripe some of your old furniture into a new life. Sand back an old book case, dressing table or even an odd chair which you like but doesn’t fit

anywhere right now. Depending on the boldness of the look you want you can choose heavily contrasting paint colours, or those only a few shades apart.
All you have to do is paint the chosen piece of furniture in the base colour, wait for it to dry then mark out an even number of stripes with masking tape and add your contrasting colour and now you have a unique, modern and totally personal and creative piece of furniture. Stripe on!