Buying art can be a rite of passage. That first time you invest in a piece that isn’t a thumb-tacked poster from your college bookstore feels like, “Yes, I’m an adult now! I am an art collector!” 

But, as our taste in art evolves, we’re also introduced to fine art price tags. Perusing through avant-garde galleries feels oh so chic—and it often comes with an equivalently chic price tag. Original art can run from a few hundred dollars well into the six figures, and that’s not always in the budget (someday, right?). 

So, how do you get a gallery-worthy art look on a thrift store budget? We asked six design experts for their tips, tricks, and unconventional hacks to get an investment art look on a shoestring budget.

1. Understand There’s No Limit to What Is Considered Art

DIY expert, author, and design consultant Jessica Nickerson takes creating art into her own hands—but she’s not picking up a paint brush.

Nickerson says, “Unexpected, everyday items can be turned into budget-friendly, large scale art with a bit of imagination. Last year I completed a makeover on a half bathroom. I bought a large, secondhand canvas and wrapped a shower curtain around it for a more modern, updated look. From there I ‘framed’ it using stained pieces of lattice from the hardware store.”

“I’ve also used an antique door and woven rug from Facebook Marketplace for budget-friendly wall art. What’s better large-scale art than a woven rug? There’s so much texture and character. Look for a 5’x8’ rug, then attach it with nails to a 1x4 piece of wood screwed into the studs in the wall behind.”

2. Scour Sites Like Etsy for Original Oil Paintings

DIY and design expert Hannah Hamburger has stunning art with a timeless feel and much of it is original. She says, “I love to search for oil paintings on Etsy as a way to purchase original art on a limited budget. Many times, shipping is free even if it’s international so don’t limit yourself to U.S. sellers. The paintings are one of a kind for less than a few hundred dollars––many under $100! Landscapes and still life paintings are always winners, but I have a soft spot for portraits. Frame your find with thrifted frames, or splurge for custom framing, and your art will stand out as one of a kind.”

3. Find Motivated Sellers

Kevin Billings, of Dexter and Plaid Interior Design Co., uses captivating vintage paintings in his designs, including oil paintings and portraits that tell a story, particularly when grouped together in eye-catching gallery walls—but he’s not paying premium prices. 

“Finding vintage art has basically become a part-time job for me now. It’s a such a thrill. My biggest sources have been thrift stores and Facebook Marketplace. You’re always going to find the best deal on Facebook Marketplace as most people selling items there are looking to move things quickly so they’re pricing to sell. Also, with the option to have items shipped, there’s more opportunity to find art pieces not just in your general area. I hope to one day have a larger budget but for now, I’m happy hunting for the best deals!”

4. Frame Book Pages in Affordable Frames

Dana Dore, a New Jersey-based blogger and multi-hyphenate designer, advises getting creative with what you frame. Grab old coffee table books from a thrift store or book sale, peruse Etsy––remember, art doesn’t have to be conventional “art.” 

Dore says, “Craft stores, Target, Walmart, etc all have good frame assortments with affordable prices. Filling the frames with old book pages, downloadable printables (from Etsy), etc is a cost effective way to fill the frames with consistent or themed art. When using frames of different sizes, the possibilities are endless in terms of where frames can be sourced. Thrift stores, flea markets, and Facebook Marketplace offer endless options for inexpensive frames.”

5. Stick to a Common Thread

Matthew James, of Brooklyn Art Boy, sticks to a common thread with his art so he rotate pieces throughout his home and yet they all feel intentionally collected––a key to looking as if you’ve invested significantly in your art.

He says, "I’m a firm believer that art shouldn’t be constrained to a singular space and should be able to move around your home. Whenever I’m sourcing new art for myself or others, I try to find a commonality among each piece whether its composition, colour, style, subject, etc so there’s freedom to swap and move the art from room to room or on a gallery wall. By having a common thread through the artwork, it can make your space feel more cohesive and intentional—especially if you’re on a budget! For my apartment, most of the art has some connection to nature (i.e. landscapes, florals, etc) and can be moved around fairly easily since each piece compliments one another."

6. Work the Facebook Marketplace Algorithm

Natalie Wong, an interior stylist in Los Angeles, CA and an avid Facebook Marketplace buyer, takes the secondhand approach to sourcing original art. “Secondhand shopping platforms like Facebook Marketplace are great places to search for original art. Search terms I use include: large art, wall art, original art, oil painting, original painting, abstract art.”

And, she notes, it’s all about allowing the algorithm to get to know you. “Save/bookmark items you like—even if they’re out of your price range—because then Facebook will get to know your interests better and start suggesting similar items to what you're looking for. If you’re creating a gallery wall with smaller pieces (or just looking to fill a small space like a powder room), these are much easier to ship, so search for sellers outside of your area offering items that they’re willing to ship.”

The holiday season is upon us once again, and it's time to start stringing the lights and pulling your Christmas tree up from the basement. And if you're a holiday décor fan, you’ve likely been itching to decorate your home even more than usual this year—probably since the first chill of October. 

But there’s no need to rush out year after year and purchase bundles of new Christmas décor, even though the temptation is high—looking at you, Target. Traditional, classic décor you already own is often the most timeless and meaningful, and you won't run the risk of it not being on-trend in years to come.

Read on for 18 elevated traditional Christmas décor ideas to help you deck the halls in your home.

01Wreath Centerpiece

Nothing screams Christmastime like pine, and this simple wreath makes the perfect centerpiece. It feels traditionally Christmas in texture and color, but modern when paired with the rest of the space's furnishings.

02Holly Jolly Stockings

These stockings are sure to make you smile. A playful take on the classic red, green, and white Christmas palette, these stockings blend in perfectly with the preexisting bohemian and plant-happy décor.

03Tree and Matching Shelf

This dreamy neutral space has the most gorgeous Christmas setup. The tree is adorned with coordinating neutral ornaments that complement the décor of the room, and the natural bottlebrush trees on the shelf complete the look.  

04Deck The Desk

As our WFH situation continues into the holidays, why not deck out your desk with a little Christmas cheer? This wreath is the perfect way to add a touch of evergreen to your work space.

05Classic Tree

Ornaments of Christmas’ past tend to have a special place in our hearts, whether they were from childhood, travels, or gifts. This tree covered in angels and candlesticks feels fresh yet classic and meaningful.

06Understated Garland

We love how this garland is the single pop of color in this all-white living room. Such a simple strand of green paired with burning candles really transforms the monochromatic space into a winter wonderland.

07Tiny Tree

The fine details can read traditionally Christmas as well, just pint-sized. This mantel boasts an adorable reindeer and tiny tree combination that brings the classic Christmas feel atop the mantel. 

08Small But Mighty

With such a well-styled interior, it might seem difficult to incorporate generic Christmas décor, but this tree feels made for this space. It is slim enough not to deter from the stunning walls and decorative objects, but still warms up the space.

09Traditional Meets Neutral

We love this corner display by House of Hanes that blends a chic design aesthetic with a traditional, lush Christmas tree. The neutral leather chair and black-and-white accents serve as the ideal backdrop for the evergreen tree, with the various styles blending seamlessly together.

10Simple and Rustic

The roaring fireplace, evergreen mantel, and simple Christmas tree give this living space the warmest and coziest Christmas vibes.  

11Star of the Show

This living room snapshot feels traditionally Christmas without sacrificing the neutrality of the space. The tree is decked out in ornaments, and the small reindeer and bottlebrush trees add touches of holiday detail throughout the space.

12Touch of Green

We love how a little hint of Christmas brightens up this bedroom. No room is off-limits for decorating, and this glowing garland atop the headboard feels like a new classic.

13Christmas To the Max

If you’re going to decorate for Christmas, go all out, and use this design by Thomas Guy Interiors as your guide. This maximal design look features a tree loaded with colorful ornaments, garland draped over all the furniture, and a fresh red floral arrangement. 

14Minimalist Wreath

This wreath matches the home’s décor so well it just might be mistaken for year-round wall art. The wreath's minimalist design and muted colors add a touch of holiday spirit to the space without overwhelming the neutral style with bolder reds and greens.

15Stockings Hung With Care

We want to cozy up next to this fireplace all winter. The subtle hints of Christmas tie in perfectly to the rustic decor, with neutral grey stockings and a simple pinecone garland.

16Christmas, but Make It Glamorous

The Christmas décor in this glamorous bedroom feels at once luxe and classic. The tiny tree fits perfectly in the corner, and the wreath hung from the ornate mirror serves as a reminder of the season each time you get ready in the morning. 

17White and Bright

This space feels traditional yet elevated, with a tree dripping in gold accessories that lights up the white foyer. A coordinating garland cascades down the stair rail and leads to the tree for a cohesive multi-level design.

18All is Calm

Though this Christmas tree by White & Faded is simple and understated, it is the standout feature of this white and rustic living space. The minimal approach to ornaments and lighting leaves the tree feeling natural, matching the room’s vibes perfectly.