Preparing for the arrival of your baby is one of the most exciting times in your life. Getting a nursery ready for your little one can bring a mixture of joy and apprehension. Your baby's nursery should be a warm and inviting space for your new arrival and you can create a wonderful space by considering a few key details, say Jessica Strand and Jennifer Levy, authors of "Baby's Room: Ideas and Projects for Nurseries." Soon your new baby will happily and soundly sleeping in her brand new nursery.
Step 1
Choose a theme for your baby's nursery. Strand and Levy recommend beginning with a broad concept, such as animals, or one or two specific colors that you would like to incorporate into the space. Other parents choose meaningful objects from their own childhood as the basis for their nursery theme. You should also consider the size of the room, recommend Strand and Levy, to avoid using colors or objects that make the bedroom feel small and confined. Identify colors you like or visit baby stores to get ideas to start with.
Step 2
Select the color or colors you want to use in the nursery. Take a trip to your local home improvement store and pick up different paint samples you like, suggest Strand and Levy. You can hold them up or match them to objects you have chosen to determine what colors and shades will work best in the room. Once you make your color choices, purchase water-based paints because they dry faster and have less of a smell. Strand and Levy also suggest using paints with a semi-gloss or washable finishes because as your child grows, you will need to be able to wash handprints off the walls in her bedroom.
Step 3
Purchase furniture. According to Megan Connelly, author of "The Smart Approach to Kids' Rooms," you will want to consider your big-ticket items before your baby is born. Connelly suggests comparison shopping of cribs, changing tables and gliders because you have the advantage of time on your side while you wait for your baby to make her appearance. To save money, you may want to consider a crib that converts to a toddler bed or a changing table that can be used as a dresser. Your final choices should also coordinate with the theme and colors you have chosen.
Step 4
Shop for accessories. Accessories are an inexpensive and non-permanent way to add character to your baby's nursery. Window treatments, rugs, wall art and decorations can all be used to enhance the theme and color of your nursery, says Connelly. Many stores that sell baby gear carry themed bedding sets that can be coordinated with window treatments, lamps and pictures for the wall. Strand and Levy add that you can make your own accessories, such as decorative pillows, crib canopies or wall paintings by visiting craft stores or fabric stores for inspiration.
Tips and Warnings
- Choose a theme and colors that will grow with your baby so you do not have to redecorate her bedroom after just a few years, recommends Connelly.
- Consider the safety of the furniture, bedding and accessories you choose to ensure that your new baby's nursery is a safe place for her to sleep and spend time.
Things You'll Need
- Paint
- Bedding
- Furniture
- Wall art
- Accessories
References
- "Baby's Room: Ideas and Projects for Nurseries"; Jessica Strand and Jennifer Levy; 2002
- "The Smart Approach to Kids' Rooms"; Megan Connelly; 2008
