- 1). Decide on a color scheme for your paint and household items. Typically, country cottage showcases an eclectic blend of styles in terms of furniture and accessories. One of the things that keeps a space like this pulled together visually is a common color scheme. Blue is a popular color for a cottage on the East coast, whereas one in the West might feature warmer colors like reds, oranges and browns.
- 2). Don’t be afraid to mix it up a bit. Country cottages rely on a mix-and-match approach to decorating. Comfort is a primary feature of this décor style. If you see a piece that looks like it would fit in a country cottage, buy it.
- 3). Scout antique and estate sales as well as flea markets to find the perfect pieces for your country cottage. This is where you’ll find old pie safes, folk crafts and old quilts to throw over the back of your couch.
- 4). Look for throw pillows with a variety of patterns for your sofa. Make sure that they feature your room’s color; then they’ll look good together even if the patterns don’t match.
- 5). Take advantage of the decorative qualities of fabrics. Country cottages feature lots of different kinds of fabrics. Popular designs include big floral prints, gingham and toile. Use these fabrics generously. Use them as slip covers for the couch, to make drapes and to cover a table.
- 6). Find handmade quilts to keep your family warm as they snuggle on the couch. Some of these you can just toss over the back of the couch for everyday use. Others you’ll want to store, but depending upon your setup, they can function as part of the décor. If you have a large bookcase with deep shelves, fold the quilts and store them there. You can also sew metal rings to one side of the quilt and turn it into a wall tapestry.
- 7). Invest in some inexpensive white vases and fill them with the wildflowers around your cottage. In the winter, replace the flowers with bouquets of dried flowers. Place them on the fireplace mantel, tables or in a bare corner if they are big enough to fill it.
- 8). Seek out painted furniture pieces. This can include your coffee and end tables, the dining or kitchen tables and wooden chairs. If you buy painted wooden chairs, be sure to purchase some fluffy cushions to place on them for comfort.
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