If you've spent the past year or two reducing your spending and doing without, redecorating has probably dropped to the bottom of your priority list. But if your home looks shabby in a not-so-chic way, you can still make some inexpensive changes to brighten your living space and make it feel new again.

Clean UpYep. This is step numero uno. A lot of what makes your home feel less Martha Stewart and more college dorm is clutter. Look at areas where you have stacks of paper, piles of books and CDs, junk drawers and cardboard boxes filled with miscellaneous objects. Figure out what you need to find homes for these objects. Do you need shelves? A pretty basket or handsome tray for unpaid bills? Throw out anything you don't or won't use anytime soon.

PaintYou can make dramatic changes without spending a lot with a fresh coat of paint. Not only will your place look neater and cleaner, but a bold color can bring a whole new feel to a room. If you're afraid of trying bright colors, try a paler version of a favorite color. Have mismatched bedroom furniture or bathroom accessories? Paint tables, cabinets, chairs and other objects the same color to unify a space.

Collect special objectsFind accent pieces you love. Try garage sales, thrift shops, flea markets and discount stores. Great home stores that won't bust your budget include Pier One Imports, Overstock.com, Home Goods, Marshalls, Ikea and Target. Look for vases, mirrors, throw pillows and candle sticks, to name just a few items that can add interest to a room. Think ahead about what you want to do with a particular area so you're not buying random pieces you can't use and that will eat up your budget.

Light up your spaceAdd a floor lamp to a dark corner, or top an empty surface with a table lamp. Put a collection of candle votives in different sizes in the same color on a coffee table or mantel.

Try something newDon't be afraid of bold colors, patterns and metallics. Just keep in mind your color scheme and stick to it. Look at magazines, store displays and decorating Web sites for ideas if you're feeling unsure about pulling off a new look.