One of the most exciting parts of preparing for your new baby is decorating the nursery. So many patters, colors, styles; the options are truly endless! Keep reading for a bit of guidance on creating the perfect atmosphere for your special delivery without breaking the bank.

If you are expecting a new baby, chances are you are looking forward to decorating a room especially for your newborn. A baby nursery is great fun to plan and decorate and you don't have to spend a fortune doing it! Even if you don't know if you're having a baby boy or a baby girl, you can come up with the perfect theme and color combination to really dress up an ordinary space into a delightful baby nursery.

Theme. Begin by selecting your theme. Many themes are timeless, like the ocean or a jungle or familiar nursery rhymes. Maybe a children's character you loved as a child could set the tone. For boys, trains, trucks, sports and cowboys are popular. For girls, fairies, princesses and ballerinas are classics. Gender neutral themes can include tropical fish, sweet birds, bumble bees, farm animals or any of the popular licensed children's characters.

Paint. When you are ready, start by picking a pleasant paint color for all or several of the walls. Paint is relatively inexpensive and can really add interest to the room. Remember though that you will have to live with it for several years so don't pick something too dark or dramatic. A baby's nursery should be soothing and something they can grow into.

Decorate. Add wallpaper trim borders for interest or vinyl wall decals sprinkled about. These inexpensive decorating treatments can be found online. Or, do it yourself! Using poster board, cut out stenciled shapes and using complementary colors to your background color, stencil designs around the room. Remember to let the background color dry first though before painting on top of it.

Consider freehand painting if you're artistically inclined. If not, copy an image on overhead projector overlays and project them on the wall, painting over the image. The finished results will look like you illustrated the images yourself and you'll have fun doing it! You may even want to repurpose the image on your Baby Announcements. Make it a group project with help from friends and family if you want. On your Baby Shower Invitations, invite guests to stick around for a painting party.

Furnish. Baby furniture can be found at garage sales, thrift stores or online. The pieces don't have to match. Some of the most charming rooms are a collection of mismatched items. Add a fresh coat of paint if necessary. Include a rocking chair if you can and a nightlight in the room for middle of the night diaper changes.

Accessorize. If you're a seamstress, sew your own bedding and window treatments. If not, consider asking a friend or family member to help. Or, bargain shop and you are sure to find something perfect for your new little one. The hunt for that something special can be quite fun!

Personalize. For an extra special touch, personalize the room with the new baby's name. Paint it yourself or order online. Personalized wall decals are uniquely interesting. And don't forget to frame a copy of your Baby Birth Announcements for a simple wall decoration.

Surf websites for inspiration on baby nursery decorating tips. You will amaze yourself at how much you can do on your own so get started early as you will be quite busy once your new baby is born!

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