Throw Pillows Update the traditional ticking-encased pillow by making an ultra-comfy throw pillow. This red and blue patchwork pillow is easy to make: Using sewing shears, cut eight ticking remnants into 8 1⁄2" squares. Machine stitch four squares together to make one 16" square. Repeat to make another ...

Old buttons can be transformed into elegant creations with just a little work. Button Curtain Tieback Choose a 10" roll (per panel) of narrow ribbon (we used double-faced satin). Thread through a large button about 18" from one end; sew smaller buttons at random intervals. String a ...

For the lamp shade, remove the original fabric, leaving only the frame. Pin small doilies around the top, and then to one another, for a skirtlike effect. Remove pinned doilies. Machine-stitch together. Slip "skirt" over frame; hand-stitch around frame's top. Starched Doily Basket To shape ...

Fabric-Lined Baskets A roll of bakery twine, pinking shears, and hot glue are all that's needed to repurpose a well-worn-though-cherished quilt into a pretty basket liner. Polka-Dot Pincushion A pincushion is an easy and practical first project. Take two 4 1/2-inch squares ...

Yo-Yo Projects Yo-yos can become enchanting accents for your favorite accessories - they'll also liven up your living space. Sew them to kitchen curtains and pillows, or glue them to a terra-cotta flowerpot for an extra bit of bloom. Flatware Holder Delight your ...

This dated ottoman leaps from dull to delightful as verdant vinyl gives way to purple plush and polka dots. Here's how: 1. Remove the original cover to use as an approximate guide for the new one. If necessary, now is a good time to replace the worn foam and batting with ...

This quick and easy ottoman will have your seating sorted, and will be handy for other purposes as well!    You will need: - 2m of fabric - 40cm high density foam block - Sewing machine and thread to match - 1.35m continuous ...

Create three-dimensional artwork by mounting your favourite mementos inside standard frames - and skip the glass. To make the mat, simply paint the wall defined by the frame. Choose a frame style and a "mat" colour that suits the room and objects. Memento ideas might include old letters and postcards, pressed ...

Liven up dull linens with a touch of trim. Select buttons, beads, ribbons, and other stylish fabrics and trims to match your style or mood.    You will need: - Ribbon Trim - Plain sheets and/or pillowcases - Fabric tape measure - Several ...

These beautiful sheer panels soften the straight lines in this garden room. A palette of greens, yellows, blues, and pinks makes this room bloom.    You will need: - Sheer curtain fabric - Patterned fabric - Sewing machine - ...

These fabric shelves are ideal storage for a room where floor space is at a premium. You can store a wide variety of things, such as toys, shoes or clothes, and by adjusting the size of the shelves you can store much more. A great idea for a nursery or ...

A kitchen fridge virtually covered with soccer schedules and invitations. A hall table with stacks of unopened mail. A desk with a pile of bills growing distressingly high. If these images describe your home, it's time to do something to impose order on the chaos. Our do-it-yourself solution? An ...

Covering a plywood table with layered skirts is an inexpensive way to add colour and pattern to a room. And the long skirt provides a undercover spot for books or storage boxes.    You will need: Fabrics for underskirt and overskirt Thread to ...

Slipcovers are removable covers that slip over a piece of upholstered furniture. They can extend the life of a piece or update decor - change a look by changing a slipcover. Prepare the Pattern for Cutting 1. Mark upper edge of all muslin pieces; ...

 Slipcovers are removable covers that slip over a piece of upholstered furniture. They can extend the life of a piece or update decor - change a look by changing a slipcover. The easiest way to make a slipcover pattern is by pin-fitting muslin. To begin: 1. Measure ...