We spend one third of  each day in our bedroom sleeping  and that does not include the time spent in the room getting dressed, watching television or “whatever”.    Is your bedroom looking tired and dated?  If you are still using the matching duvet, bedskirt and two pillow sham combination (think bed in a bag) then it is probably time to make some changes.

New look on a budget

• Duvets, comforters, bedspreads and quilts are the “workhorse” of your bedding ensemble.   They provide the color and pattern and set the tone for the room.  Paint colors and accessories are often chosen from the bed covering.  You can purchase a ready made comforter or duvet or use your Grandmother’s handmade quilt for a country look, for example.  You can fashion your own “custom” duvet out of inexpensive material for the  backing and something as simple as a pretty sheet for the top or you can embellish the opening with buttons or ribbons to add some personality to a standard duvet.  Using your old comforter to stuff your duvet will save you even more $$.
• Bedskirts can be frilly and fluffy,very tailored with a box pleat at the corners or somewhere in between.  If your current bedskirt is a color you plan on using  in your room you can dress it up by adding layers of ribbon or gimp to the hem, sewing buttons to the top of pleats or add contrasting fabric to the inside of the pleat.  This will give you an expensive, custom look for very little money.
• Pillow shams are a decorative addition to your bedding ensemble.  They are available in standard and king sizes but you can be creative and use different sizes regardlessof the size of your bed.  Three standard shams on a king size bed offers a full and luxurious look while using a large king size sham on a twin or full size bed offers a nice streamlined look.  Plain shams can be embellished with embroidery, ribbon trim, coordinating ruffles etc.  Consider personalizing your shams with a monogram for an upscale and graphic look.
• Let’s not forget that a bed is meant for sleeping.  For the ultimate in luxury, purchase the highest thread count sheets you can afford.  You will appreciate it every night when you slip under soft, smooth sheets.

Budget is no object

Wouldn’t we all love to say this!  If budget is no object, having custom bedding made for you is the ultimate luxury.  Choose the highest thread count available to sleep like a king or queen.   Using exquisite fabrics and trims will add to the luxurious feel.  Since budget is not a concern you are free to use trendier colors and objects knowing that you can replace them when they are no longer in vogue.

If you can sew, all of these projects are easy and affordable.  Check out my fellow onlinefabricstore blogger Elizabeth’s posts from march 3, 5, and 7th.  Her sewing tips can help you create your own custom bedding and she is available to answer your questions should you run into any problems.  Sweet dreams!