Anyone can Decorate

"Taste can be acquired, style can be learned". It's true, some people just have a natural flair for decorating. Guess I'm one of them. I can see things others can't. But, that's not the only requirement for decorating. And, it's not the only skill I depend on.  Decorators like to keep things exclusive and mysterious, like only they can do the job.  But, that's not true. The ability to observe, copy, and re-invent is also important as natural giftings.  I'd be lost without the guidance of others. Here are key elements that can enable anyone to decorate:

1. Natural born ability: This is helpful, but not necessary in every case.
2. Observance & recording: Take a second look at room settings, or themes that you like. Instead of giving up with, `Oh, I could never do that”, pay attention to what it is you liked. Take note (literally, or you`ll forget), of what it is that appeals to you, and why. Observe the details. ** Have a small digital camera with you wherever you go, along with a small note pad. It`s amazing how many times you`ll unexpectedly come across ideas.
3. Copying & applying: After you`ve thought about what it is you liked, you`ll be surprised how easily, and how many of the ideas can be copied or modified. Do you honestly think that every designer relies on own originality, every time . . . they build on the work of others, and throw in their own expressions.

4. Learned skills: After awhile, you`ll note a common denominator in what you like, e.g. the pictures on the walls are larger than what you have, they are hung much lower.  Fireplace mantles aren`t filled with endless ``do-dads`` but with a few key pieces.

Turn yourself into a Decorating Detective, and you’ll soon be smarter than you think!