Zen decor is harmonious and serene. It stresses simplicity and clean lines. But how do you accessorize your zen decor so that the simplicity isn't lost and the lines remain uncluttered? And more importantly, how do you accessorize on a budget? The answer, like Zen itself, is simple, easy, and inexpensive. In fact, here are 10 Zen accessories you can make or buy for under $10.

1. Silk. Frame remnants of silk fabric or silk scarves from your local thrift shop for a slash of color.

Choose oriental themes and frame with thrift shop frames painted black.

2. Chopsticks. Spray paint four wooden chopsticks red. Glue to two pieces white or black matboard - Glue two pieces side by side horizontally on one board and two pieces vertically on the other. Frame and display as a simple splash of color.

3. Lanterns. Chinese lanterns made of rice paper can be inexpensively purchased at garden centers or import shops. Hang around the room for a colorful asian touch.

4. Wisdom. Gather large flat rocks and clean. Use paint or a permanent marker to print positive messages such as serenity, prosperity, and love. Use on top of your desk or table in a group of three.

5. Water. A saucer from a terracotta pot can be used as a focal point of a table. Fill the saucer with pebbles. Add water to the saucer to enhance the colors in the pebbles. This is a simple accessory that can be changed at will.

6. Candles. A saucer can also be used as lighting. Fill the saucer with sand. Add several sizes of candles and snuggle them into the sand for a lovely arrangement for a tabletop.

7. Boxes. A plain wooden box can be painted with black enamel. Let dry and add a tassel from curtain tiebacks for an oriental look. You can find wonderful accents at your fabric store to chose from.

8. Bamboo. Buy baskets at your local thrift shop. Add soil and one single long stemmed plant. Bulb plants are ideal. Bamboo plants can also be used.

9. Characters. Your local craft store will have several stamps using Chinese characters. Use the stamps and ink to stamp the corners of plain placemats, bamboo placemats, or tablerunners.

10. Rugs. Use the stamps and ink to decorate the edges of a bamboo rug. A simple border of Chinese characters will add visual interest to a plain bamboo or reed rug.

These simple and inexpensive accessories can give a Zen appeal to your room. Choose a few and try them. Don't try to fit all of these ideas in your room - remember less is more.