eBay is an incredible resource for shabby decorative arts. Look in just about any buying category and you'll find something listed. It's eclectic, varied, and just about anything goes. Patterns, colors, and a good look are all important things to consider in decorating. And...some of it is very expensive.

Here are some tips:

Above all else, the foundation of shabby decorative style is about transforming a hum drum piece into something eye-catching, amusing, and most of all - functional. Delicate isn't always shabby; it can be very impractical. Don't be afraid to experiment with color; not everything can be pink, white, and covered with cabbage roses.

When I buy something I look for what I call "good bones." If a piece is well-made, sturdy, and most of all, functional - then anything goes. Never be afraid of dirt, a cracked piece of glass, or even rusty hardware. Anything and everything can be renovated if it has "good bones."

Right now, I'm listing a beat-up bathroom cabinet. I spent hours scraping off the lead paint. I'm hoping that it won't sell, so I can refinish it myself. When YOU take the time to do the priming, you find yourself beginning to look at the piece in a whole different light. This cabinet is perfect for hot, bright colors. Imagine opening up a bathroom cabinet and finding it lined with purple and green-striped paper! I'll have a shopping frenzy finding the perfect decorative hardware for the sides.

I love to buy inexpensive plates on eBay. I'll deliberately look for the ones with a chip - they're less expensive. I love pink and red transferware. Some are Wedgewood, others are willoware. When you put together a collection, it looks like you. They don't have to be in mint condition. They just have to look good together.

Six-paned windows and french windows are very popular. They're so versatile! As for me, I prefer a large, old wooden picture frame without any glass. I'll polish the wood with beeswax (indispensible) hang it on the wall and it has a Magritte-like, witty quality: A painting of a frame without a painting.

Best of all, when you're tired of it - you can resell it on eBay for twice what you paid for it in the first place ;)

Shabby will NEVER go out of style. And neither will savvy shopping on eBay!