buy what you like
If you are buying on a budget don't worry too much. It's your chance to buy what you really like. Don't think about the perceived investment value or 'will it fit in with my other choices', just choose items that reflect you and your lifestyle.

quality and quantity
Your home doesn’t have to be a museum, you may decide to pay a bit more for three or four pieces rather than than forty cheaper ones.

shop around
Take your time to gain an understanding of the artwork that interests you and begin to trust your own individual taste and what you need to spend.

mix and match
Why not mix original paintings with lower cost photographic and other types of prints. Tell your friends you are an 'eclectic collector'.

new horizons
Whether it’s a good book, a piece of music, or a piece of art, it's sometimes exciting to 'think outside the box.' You're not spending a fortune so if you like something why not take a chance.

start small
Buying small low priced pieces is a great way for beginners to test out their own tastes.

protect your artwork
Take commonsense steps to keep your artwork in good condition. Go to a reputable framer who will use acid-free paper. Keep works out of direct sunlight and don’t place your art over a radiator.

coordinate or contrast
You might think you have to blend artwork from the same period as that 50's piece of furniture you love. Wrong. Follow your taste, a striking piece of contemporary art (even if it's a low cost print) can look stunning next to period items.

big names
Prints in larger or so called 'open' editions are a good way of getting something from an artist whose prices may otherwise be beyond your reach.

avoid short-term trends
Don't buy artwork just to be 'of the moment'. It can be costly and you may end up with artwork you're not happy with.

avoid tourist raps
Buy art when you travel, but stay away from galleries that cater to tourists. It’s unlikely you’ll find serious art that will retain its value there.

follow your instincts
Go to museums and galleries and see what attracts you. Then go to art markets and junk stores and try to find similar pieces.

get personal
Try to meet the artist. Doing so adds a personal connection to the work, which becomes a lot more interesting when you know something about the hand that made it.

set limits
Stay in your price range. You want to be able to look at your art and enjoy it, without worrying about how much it cost.