Marian Parsons

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

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.

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.

Many beautiful antique doors and windows are orphaned from their original cabinetry, furniture or homes. There are thousands of ways to repurpose them decoratively, but this project shows how to make them functional again as doors to a cabinet.

Storage is always an issue in small bathrooms. This quick and easy storage solution puts wire or wicker baskets to work to solve that problem in no time flat.

Wooden steps are beautiful but can be slippery and cold underfoot. Add warmth, softness and safety by installing a stair runner. Using inexpensive woven table runners, this project is a snap to do yourself. 

Not everyone has a fireplace mantel for hanging stockings, so why not make one? This shelf is easy to build with some basic tools and can be customized in color, style and size to fit any family and decorating taste.

Bring the unexpected to your table with miniature Christmas trees made out of cut and curled sheet music. These fluffy trees will add texture and whimsy to any holiday arrangement.

Card tables are convenient to use when entertaining over the holidays, but they can be eyesores. A simple slipcover that is fitted and washable (not to mention pretty) is the perfect solution.

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.

Instead of making a wreath with bulky plastic gourds, try using putka pods, which are natural dried seed pods that look exactly like tiny pumpkins. This wreath makes an elegant fall statement that can be displayed year after year.

Instead of the customary bottle of wine, give your favorite party host or hostess a monogrammed serving tray that can be used throughout the year.

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.

Some of the sweetest Christmas tree ornaments are the ones made by the littlest crafters. This retro kids' craft is a whimsical and fun interpretation of Santa Claus that can be made with common craft supplies in just a few minutes.

Salvaged wood and architectural remnants are prime candidates to be repurposed as furniture. In the case of this table, pieces of an old rope bed and a beadboard door are upcycled into a functional and one-of-a-kind coffee table.