Because deep down we all want the Pinterest room on a budget and a little bit of inexpensive art can give it to you.
Many people think that getting that drool-worthy Pinterest home decor requires a big budget, a super creative interior designer brain, or someone else to just do it for them. I’ve worked with tons of people who believe that if they can’t afford expensive artwork or designer pieces, they’re doomed to a dull, uninspired space. I truly believe that all of this is simply not true.
This post is all about showing you how to decorate your home with stylish, inexpensive art that adds personality and charm—without breaking the bank, losing your mind, or resorting to making everything beige (not that there is anything wrong with that ;). Whether you’re redecorating a single room or looking to refresh your entire home, there are endless budget-friendly options that look just as good as the high-end stuff.
I guarantee you’ll be able to create a space that feels you—without the hefty price tag.
This post contains affiliate links. If you buy something though these links, I may earn a commission. Thanks!! Featured image source: Modern Coastal Abstract Set of 8 by NLS Design Abstracts
Why Spending Less on Inexpensive Art Doesn’t Mean Settling for Mediocre
When it comes to decorating, a lot of us fall into the trap of thinking that “more expensive” equals “better.” But the reality is, you can absolutely get high-quality, stylish art and home decor at a fraction of the cost if you know where to look.
Tip #1: Digital Downloads = Huge Savings
Let’s start with one of the easiest ways to save money on art: digital downloads. The great thing about digital art is that you pay once, get the file instantly, and can print it in any size or format you want. No waiting for shipping, no worrying about damage in transit, and no overpriced art galleries.
Not only are they budget-friendly, but they also allow you to have more control over the final product. Print them small for a gallery wall or go big for a statement piece in the living room.
And… a shameless plug for you to check out my travel/nature and abstracts Etsy shops: HERE and HERE.
I always recommend getting your digital downloads printed wherever you get your photos printed on a matte finish photo paper or giclee print. Most of my customers use regular ol’ places like Walmart, Costco, Shutterfly, and Snapfish.
If you want to print them yourself, get a high-ish quality home inkjet printer (I like this one) and some photo paper.
Tip #2: Affordable Framing Can Make All the Difference
Even the most beautiful art can fall flat if it’s poorly framed. A good frame can elevate any piece of inexpensive art—whether it’s a digital download or a print you snagged at a store. But don’t worry, you don’t have to splurge on custom frames to make your art look expensive.
Some of my favorite places to get budget-friendly frames are Bed Bath & Beyond, Home Depot, Michaels, Amazon, and even Walmart. They all offer sleek, minimal frames that work with a variety of styles—whether you’re into farmhouse chic or modern minimalism. Another favorite? T.J.Maxx often has high-end frames at a discount, so it’s worth browsing the home section the next time you’re there. (See below for more on framing.)
Tip #3: Make the Most of Affordable Decor
Once you’ve got your inexpensive art sorted, it’s time to think about the rest of the room. One of the biggest mistakes people make when decorating on a budget is thinking they can only afford to buy cheap, mass-produced decor. But with a little creativity and some strategic shopping, you can find high-quality pieces that won’t blow your budget.
For example, I love using rugs to tie a room together, and Ruggable has stylish, machine-washable options that are perfect for high-traffic areas. Need some shelving to display your art? Check out Home Depot for affordable but chic floating shelves (Home Depot also has easy in-person returns -not that you’d need to but…). And if you’re looking for a few finishing touches, places like Cost Plus World Market and Kirkland’s Home have unique decor finds that look way more expensive than they are.
Digital Downloads Can Help You Save
One of the biggest reasons digital downloads are such a game-changer for inexpensive art and home decor is how much money you can save—without sacrificing style or quality.
No shipping fees.
Unlike physical art prints, you won’t have to worry about extra costs tacked on at checkout. This alone can be a huge win, especially when you’re trying to stick to a budget. Plus, there’s no waiting around for delivery. As soon as you purchase a digital download, it’s instantly available for you to download and print.
Another bonus? Flexibility.
With a digital file, you can print the art in any size or format you want. Want to go big for a statement piece in your living room? Easy. Need something smaller for a gallery wall? You’ve got it. You have complete control over how the final piece looks, which is another huge plus when decorating on a budget.
Let’s talk printing.
If you’re printing at a photo printing place like I usually recommend, the prices are a lot less than something that’s printed for you through an art retailer. It’s just like getting the photos off your phone printed. Easy peasy lemon squeezy.
If you’re printing at home, you don’t need a fancy setup. As I mentioned above, a reliable, affordable printer will get the job done without breaking the bank. And if you’re serious about making your prints look professional, using high-quality paper can make a big difference. I like photo paper, but I have also seen people use specialty papers like watercolor with great results.
Affordable Framing Tips to Elevate Inexpensive Art
You’ve chosen the perfect piece of art—whether it’s a digital download or a print—but here’s where a lot of people get stuck: framing. The truth is, a well-chosen frame can instantly elevate any artwork, making it look more expensive and polished, even if the art itself was super affordable. The right frame can completely change the vibe of a piece.
DIY framing is your best friend.
Like I said above, you don’t have to spend hundreds on custom frames to make your art look amazing. Stores like Bed Bath & Beyond, Home Depot, Michaels, Amazon, and Walmart offer ready-made frames, affordable framing materials, or you can even find DIY framing kits if you’re feeling crafty.
The great thing about these stores is you can often find frames for a fraction of what you’d pay at a specialty framing shop, and they still give you that polished, gallery-quality look.
Here’s a tip: Try experimenting with different mat sizes. A wider mat can make a smaller print feel much more substantial, and it adds a touch of sophistication. The extra white space around the art creates a sense of balance and draws the eye to the piece.
Don’t forget the hanging accessories!
To really get that polished, professional look, you’ll want the right tools. I love recommending affordable picture hanging tools and kits. They’ve got everything from hanging kits to levelers, so your artwork doesn’t end up crooked on the wall with a thousand holes behind each picture (I’m hoping this isn’t just me.). I like this one.
Where to Find Affordable, High-Quality Art
Finding high-quality, inexpensive art doesn’t mean you have to settle for something generic or mass-produced. There are plenty of places where you can score beautiful pieces that feel personal and unique, without blowing your budget.
My favorite place
You knew I was gonna say this, but Etsy really is a great place to look for original artist-grade, but inexpensive art. (Check out my Travel/Nature Shop and my Abstracts Shop.)
But I get it—sometimes you want to browse a few different sources.
Here are a few other places where you can always find great, affordable art that suits every taste and budget:
- Fine Art America
I’ve recently partnered with Fine Art America to offer prints of my artwork on my website. (Check it out HERE.) They do a quality printing job, offer lots of print and home décor options, and attract lots of unique and well-respected artists to post their work. - Society6
If you’re into bold, trendy pieces, Society6 is a great place to look. They have a huge selection of art prints in every style imaginable. - Redbubble
Another great resource for unique, budget-friendly art is Redbubble. I love that they feature independent artists from all over the world, which means you can find something that feels truly one-of-a-kind. - Great Big Canvas
If you’re looking for larger statement pieces, Great Big Canvas is a go-to. They specialize in oversized art prints that can make a big impact in any room. The best part? They often have sales, so you can snag something stunning without breaking the bank. (Check out my post How to Fill a Large Living Room Wall When You Have No Money)
Complete Your Look with Budget-Friendly Decor
It’s not just about the art—what really pulls a room together is the decor that surrounds it. Even if you have the perfect piece of art on the wall, pairing it with the right accessories can make the whole space feel intentional and polished. There are plenty of budget-friendly decor options that can complement your inexpensive art and make your room feel complete.
Begin with accessories.
Whether you’re looking for a throw, a stylish vase, or a few statement pillows, affordable decor pieces can help you pull together a cohesive look. One of my go-to places for affordable, stylish decor is Cost Plus World Market. They always have a great selection of unique, globally inspired items that add character to a space without costing a ton. I also love the big box stores like Walmart, Bed Bath and Beyond, and of course Amazon for timeless, classic pieces that feel expensive but are totally budget-friendly. And, one that many people don’t think about are craft stores like Michaels. There are great home décor accessories and small furniture pieces hidden in stores like these. (Always look for a Michaels coupon too!)
Need to fill some empty wall space?
Like I mentioned above, sleek, affordable shelving is a great way to display art while also adding some functional storage to your room. It also takes up a ton of wall space while looking totally intentional. You don’t have to go custom—Home Depot and Amazon have tons of modern shelving options that are perfect for showing off smaller prints, books, or plants. Floating shelves are especially great for keeping things clean and minimalist while still adding visual interest.
Speaking of plants…
Adding a little greenery can do wonders for your space, especially when paired with art. It adds life and texture, which helps make everything feel more balanced.
Bonus Tips – Affordable Customization
If you’re like me, you probably love the idea of adding a personal touch to your home. Customizing your decor—whether it’s through DIY art projects or framing—is a great way to make your space feel truly unique without spending a ton of money. Plus, it’s just fun! Here are a few easy and affordable ways to bring more personalization into your home.
DIY Art Projects
If you’re feeling creative, DIY art is an amazing way to put your personal stamp on your home décor. One of my favorite ways to do this is with simple abstract paintings—you don’t need to be an artist to create something beautiful. Grab some affordable canvas and acrylic paints, and experiment with colors and shapes that complement your space. Whether it’s a fun weekend project or something you do with friends, it’s a great way to create something meaningful (and totally unique).
Personalized Inexpensive Art
If you’re really looking for something that’s one-of-a-kind, try combining digital downloads with your own personal touches. For example, you can take a digital landscape print and add a hand-painted border, or embellish it with gold leaf for a luxe effect. Another fun idea? Creating a custom gallery wall with a mix of family photos, your favorite prints, and a few DIY pieces. (Check out my post The Lazy Way To Create A Gallery Art Wall).
Inexpensive Art Does Not Mean Mediocre
When it comes to decorating your home, inexpensive art doesn’t mean you have to compromise on quality or style – or resort to a monochromatic beige look.
There’s always a way to create a home that feels stylish, thoughtful, and totally you.
You on a budget that is.
(Check out my posts: How to Decorate Like a Pro: Finding Affordable Alternatives to Designer Pieces AND Where To Buy Cheap Art That Looks Expensive for more.)
