GirlsGuideTo | 8 Ways to Spruce Up Your Workspace on a Budget

A few weeks ago we featured the lovely Amy Hoban from Shabby Chic as aGirl We Love. Well, she and her team are back with these great tips to making your office space a little more fun and feminine. Take it away, ladies!

Just because you are hard at work, doesn’t mean you can’t have a little fun with your workspace. Adding a dash of color or flair to your desk area can help spark inspiration and help you stay on task. You want your desk area to be inviting, not boring; that way you will be drawn to your work.

1. Pen and Pencil Holder
A pretty glass filled with your favorite pens and pencils can replace your standard pencil holder and turn the ordinary into something creative. A colorful juice glass or even a simple mason jar can add just the right touch.

These Treasures by Shabby Chic® pens and pencils are made in whimsical prints and can be found at Michaels Stores.

2. Showcase Your Inspiration

To keep your latest inspirations in view, attach them to a simple ribbon or twine above your desk using colorful clothespins or paperclips. Gather your favorite pictures, fabrics, and textures, along with inspiration quotes and sayings, and you have an instant mood board to inspire you throughout your day.

Treasures by Shabby Chic® clothespins and grommet tags can be found in various colors at Michaels.

3. Pretty Lamp
Soft, ambient lighting creates a soothing reprieve from harsh overhead lights. A small table or bedside lamp placed on your desk can give you just the right glow. Feminine touches such as a ruffled shade or hand-painted flowers make it pretty to look at, too!

4. Always Have a Journal
Having a journal by your side is an important tool when you are feeling creative. Never go anywhere without a notebook and pen; you never know when the perfect idea is going to come.

This Treasures by Shabby Chic® Journal is just $5 at Michaels Stores

5. Add Flair to Your Computer Monitor
Brighten up a boring computer screen with some decorative stickers or fun sticky notes for reminders to give you something fun to look at while you are doing your work. Adding small details to your work area gives it personality and character.

Treasures by Shabby Chic® Paper Roses and Twisted Notepads available at Michaels Stores.

6. Corkboard
A corkboard is both a decorative and useful piece to have in your workplace. Also try painting the cork white for a fresh new look that will make your pieces pop.

7. Fresh Flowers
Add some life to your desk with a few fresh flowers. It doesn’t have to be complicated, even a single delicate rose or wildflower in a small bud vase can make your space feel warm and inviting. Mason jars, vintage coffee mugs, or tinted glass bottles work well too.

8. Positioning
If possible, have your desk near a window. Not only will the light be great, but allowing fresh air to breeze through stimulates the brain and helps you stay awake during those late nights. Also, try to place the desk as far away from areas of high traffic (the front door, or TV area) as possible. By distancing the desk away from distractions it will help you stay focused.

How have you spruced up your workspace? Share your ideas in the comments!