Marian Parsons

High-end, fabric pillow shams can be a splurge when decorating a bedroom. With basic sewing skills, inexpensive white cotton can be transformed into beautiful, designer look-alike shams at a fraction of the cost.

These playful pet pumpkins are a fun, no-carve fall craft. Templates are included to take the guess work out of creating the shapes to make each animal come to life.

Need a last-minute idea for a pet costume? Try this no-sew lion’s mane that can be completed in about an hour. This simple felt and glue construction will be fun for you to make and comfortable for your pet to wear for any costume-worthy occasion.

Upholstery can be an intimidating project, but it seems more complicated than it actually is. A thrift store arm chair with simple lines, a sturdy frame and good padding makes a perfect subject for a novice upholsterer.

Inexpensive baskets are plentiful at yard sales and thrift stores. Transform them into stylish storage.

Elegant meets humble when a sophisticated gilt frame surrounds an inexpensive DIY chalkboard. Place it in the dining room with a thoughtful greeting for holiday guests, or use it to announce the dinner menu or evening's festivities.

A drywall kitchen backsplash doesn't have to be boring. In just an afternoon you can transform it with chalkboard paint and a little trim. This inexpensive project packs a powerful visual punch and makes any kitchen chore more fun.

Forget store-bought, mass-produced Christmas cards. Show friends and family how special they are with vintage-inspired handmade holiday cards.

Create a custom feeding station that will make eating and drinking easier on your pet. Old wooden crates, boxes or stools can all be converted into a piece that's functional for your best friend and will look great in your home. Note: Some veterinarians warn that raised feeders may cause bloat in large- and giant-breed dogs by allowing them to eat and drink too quickly causing their stomach to fill with air. So this project is not advised for dogs who are at risk for bloat. If in doubt, first check with your vet.

Add a summery nautical touch to your home's decor by wrapping natural hemp around a ho-hum lamp base and shade. This quick update is easy, inexpensive and breathes new life into a tired accessory.

Give any boring, builder-basic room a high-end upgrade by adding crown molding. This update can be completed in just a few hours and is a great project for beginning woodworkers.

This handy wooden stand is a great beginner woodworking project for anyone wanting to surprise their favorite chef, baker, techie or hostess with a beautiful and functional custom handmade gift.

Make a removable, washable cover for your furbaby’s bed that's oozing with charming, farmhouse style. This simple sewing project will transform a bed your pet loves into one you love as well.

Dyeing fabrics with indigo is an age-old technique that has never gone out of style. (And for good reason!) Use this natural dye to transform a simple white linen scarf to make a gift that's both timeless and on trend. 

Put fall's bounty on display by making a topiary out of fresh pears or apples as a centerpiece for your Thanksgiving table or buffet.