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Budget Log Cabin Decor: Affordable Ways to Achieve a Rustic Cabin Look

Faux log walls are the first step in thrifty cabin decor.

If lining your walls with authentic wooden planks and indulging in a bear skin rug is a little beyond your budget, there are plenty of inexpensive options to give your home a log cabin feel. Start by creating "log" walls with a faux painting effect, and finish by focusing on natural elements for decor.

Log Cabin Walls

Step 1

Prime walls and allow them to dry. Paint a brown base coat and allow it to dry. Apply a second coat if needed.

Step 2

Tape horizontal lines across an entire wall, about 6-8 inches apart. Make a brown glaze by mixing equal parts brown paint, paint thinner and glazing liquid. Repeat with white paint for a white glaze.

Step 3

Dampen your cloth in the brown glaze and wipe it horizontally across the taped section, re-dampening when you start to run out of paint. Instead of applying the paint in solid stripes, make random patterns that resemble what you would find in nature.

Step 4

Dampen a second cloth in the white glaze and wipe it sporadically over the brown glaze.

Step 5

Dip the cork in the brown glaze and apply it to the darkest areas of the "wood" planks.

Step 6

Lift up the tape before the paint has dried.

Add The Decor

Step 1

Install simple window treatments. A gingham curtain without blinds provides a simple and charming effect.

Step 2

Cover the floors with braided jute area rugs or a faux fur rug.

Step 3

Choose furniture that is primarily constructed with wood. Keep an eye out for pictures or knick-knacks that have a nature theme. A thrift store is a good place to find economically-priced items.