You and your baby are going to be spending a lot of time in your nursery, so you’re going to want to have a nice, livable space. However, with the economy as it is, we’re all facing tighter budgets, but that doesn’t mean you have to skimp out on the nursery room. Here are 5 easy ways to save money when building your nursery.

5) Paint instead of wallpaper

Even if you feel like you have no artistic talent, you will be amazed with what you can accomplish with a few stencils, a sponge and painter’s tape. Experiment with different textures for different effects: dabbing with a sponge is a great way to create clouds, while short brush strokes can create blades of grass, and suddenly you have a springtime scene.

4) Family photos instead of framed art

Culture is important in a baby’s development, but let’s face facts: your baby won’t know the difference between a Monet and a Manet for a few months at least. Instead of buying pricy reproductions or even generic prints, fill your nursery walls with pictures of your baby’s family. Your baby might not be surrounded by famous art, but he will be around love all the time.

3) Pack ‘N Play instead of crib

Cribs cost twice as much as a Pack ‘N Play and can’t be moved around-or at least not easily. Why spend so much money on a stationary crib when your Pack ‘N Play can serve as both bed and safe play area? Not only will you save money, but you increase the utility of your baby’s bed.

2) Furniture that transforms

No, Michael Bay, I’m not talking about Optimus Prime and company. I’m talking about baby furniture that will not lose its value once your baby grows up. For instance, instead of buying a changing table, consider buying a dresser that has a changing table attachment on top. Similarly, some cribs can even become toddler beds when your baby is ready.

1) Make your own curtains

Curtains are a great way to control the temperature and light of a room, but they are also an unnecessary expense. If you or one of your family members knows how to sew, making curtains is a fairly simple process. And if you have to enlist the help of a family member, take note! Sewing is a dying art that can save money outside of the baby room, too!

Have you ever built a baby room on a budget? What are some of your best tips?