Transform a Boy's Bedroom

An Awesome Decorating Achievement

Many popular television and cartoon character icons are available on everything from bed sheets and comforters to wastebaskets and mouse pads. One would think they could breathe a sigh of relief at room decorating made easy.

But using licensed characters and themes is an expensive option when it comes to decorating a child's bedroom. There is a more affordable way to achieve similar - even better - results!

Most boys will go along with not using licensed characters and themes as long as similar concepts and favorite colors are used. The key to success is to let your son be a part of the decorating team.

While still in the planning stage, let him have a say when it comes to making decisions for his bedroom decor. There are ways to come up with some great, original ideas for an awesome bedroom you both can live with, without butting heads or going broke.

A 60s - 70s theme using tie-dye curtains, sheets and pillowcases you create yourself, for instance. Not only will the designs be original and one-of-a-kind, but the project of tie-dying the material would provide a great "quality time together" activity for the two of you. Room accessories, like a lava lamp, a tie-dye patterned bean bag chair, and colorful inflatable pillows - vogue, yet with an echo of the 70s - would add the finishing touches!

If he love screepy, crawly things, decorating his room with insect-laden fabrics for curtains and linens might be the way to go. The two of you could make a bug mobile to hang from the light-fixture or over a desk in the corner. A large ant farm would fit into the theme, and add an interesting touch.

Is he in to Skateboarding? Hanging posters of his favorite skater is a nice touch. Boys like to identify with their skateboarding heros by plastering stickers of the latest and greatest brands of skateboards and gear.

Use a coordinating solid color fabric for one side of the comforter to make it reversible. Buy linens in the same solid color so you will have two sets that specifically match the room's new decor.

On the walls, scatter images of space ships, rockets, astronauts floating through space, and the solar system for a space theme. Or, for an ocean theme, decorate the room with sea horses, sea shells, coral, treasure chests, scuba divers, sunken ships, sharks, and tropical fish wallpaper, pictures, posters, figurines, and fabrics. A clear or blue inflatable bubble sofa or chair, with matching inflatable pillows would create the illusion of sitting on bubbles in an aquarium. Carry the theme to the hilt; replace the ceiling light with one that casts a blue glow, and add a tabletop water fountain on top of the dresser or on a shelf.

The sight of moving, splashing water would not only compliment the room's decor; the soothing, therapeutic sounds made by the fountain would contribute to a relaxed atmosphere at study time - and assist peaceful slumber at night.