Before you visit garage sales, thrift stores, flea markets, antique malls, estate sales and auctions for pieces to transform, clear out your own spaces to see what you can discover.

The key to creating treasure from trash is to look at things in a different light and be open to possibilities.

Remember, most wobbly furniture can be strengthened with glue, dings can be covered up and stains can be cut out.

You don't need a huge budget for a creative dramatic change. Your furniture may not be glamorous, but it's functional -- you may not need to buy a new table or desk.