How to Become an Interior Decorator (with Pictures) – wikiHow

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Three Parts:Gaining ExperienceStarting an Interior Decoration BusinessBecoming an Interior DesignerCommunity Q&A

If you have a love of decorating and a knack for arranging furniture and choosing dcor and color, a career as an interior decorator may be perfect for you. To become a "decorator" you dont need an extensive education or a fancy degree, just a good eye and a passion for the job. However, if you are interested in interior design, you will need to take specialized courses and gain the proper licensing from the state, depending on which state you are in.

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Practice interior decorating. Volunteer to help friends and family with decorating projects. Look for volunteer projects with local organizations. Look for service organizations like Habitat for Humanity and local shelters. Even decorating spaces for special events is good experience.

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Part 2

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Get materials. Find sources for materials and supplies. Without a license, you may not be entitled to designer discounts. However, you can begin to negotiate with suppliers if you are buying in bulk. You can also learn to find inexpensive sources for materials like overstock stores and thrift shops.

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Part 3

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What are the basic qualifications needed to become an interior decorator?

wikiHow Contributor

Nothing really, just as long as you have passion for it, an eye for decorating, and continue to learn different decorating styles and trends. You could consider taking a short course to get a certificate if you really want some kind of proof that you're qualified.

What materials are needed for interior decoration/interior design?

wikiHow Contributor

Measuring tools, flooring samples, wall covering samples, a computer software for showing rooms and different ideas of dcor. A well strong knowledge of what is popular, what is coming back in style, what is not, a great caring attitude, and great business ethics are also important.

What if I am not good at drawing, but I love designing and I want to be an interior designer some day? Should I pursue this course in life, or should I find another course that is more suited to my skills?

wikiHow Contributor

You can get through it with a lot of effort and don't slack one bit. Commit yourself myself to do your 110%. In this way, you'll become a successful decorate with a job you very much love. The thing you need to understand is that if you love your career, and you love what you do and what it will help you become, then those hard steps arent so hard anymore.You learn how to draw eventually, because talent is indeed just 1 percent of the mix and effort is the last ninety nine percent. If you love it and work hard, youll be fine.

I am currently in school and want to be an interior decorator. What subjects should I take?

wikiHow Contributor

Graphic Design, Photography, Interior Design, Furniture History (Purpose, Mood Creators, Manufacturing), Home Structural Design, Introduction to Art: History, Color Education, Medium uses, Marketing (if you want to be self employed), and Interpersonal Relations. Brand Popularity and History is another good choice.

Is math important when it comes to interior design?

wikiHow Contributor

I'm an Interior Design teacher. I'm always surprised about the difficulties my students face in understanding drawing in scale. This is math we all study in primary school (at 7/8 years old) and it is fundamental to design in the right proportions, otherwise you can't deal with the concept of space. So the answer is: yes, BASIC math is important.

Is interior designer a good occupation?

wikiHow Contributor

You need to network with a lot of people in this business. I think you will find that if you are prepared, educated, hard-working, and have a natural talent for this, you will do well.

How much money can I make?

wikiHow Contributor

Quite a decent amount, but it really depends on your location, how good your work is, and how much experience you have.

How much is an interior designer's salary?

wikiHow Contributor

It depends on your area. Stop in a home interior design stores in your city and see if they will help answer your questions.

What is the difference in between an interior designer and interior decorator?

wikiHow Contributor

An interior designer focuses on decorations and modifications to the structure itself: floors, windows, electrical systems, etc. It's a much more inclusive job that goes beyond just decorating the house.

How can I start practicing interior decorating as a kid?

wikiHow Contributor

When I was a kid I would use the family desktop computer. I would draw rooms and decorate them using the paint program on it. If you would like an even better option, there is a program in the Microsoft app store called "Planner - 5D Home and Interior Design," it allows you to switch from 2D to 3D easily and it is well worth it to spend the $10-$20 for the full version. You will have access to all materials and be able to save them, as well as take snapshots too. If you don't have access to a computer, good old fashioned graph paper, and a ruler work. Make sure you do well in school as well, as it will help you when looking for a college.

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How to Become an Interior Decorator (with Pictures) - wikiHow