MOST of us can't afford to buy furniture and accessories as and when we want, so take a look around your home and see what could benefit from a revamp, lick of paint or new fabric cover.

You may find that you really like the shape of a particular piece of furniture, but it looks tatty, your tastes have changed or it simply doesn't match your new scheme.

This doesn't mean that you have to throw it away and fork out to replace it. All it may need is a makeover and you'll have a new piece for next to nothing.

Old tins of paint, fabric remnants and leftovers from other projects often mean you can recover and paint an old chair, or run up new cushions for your sofa without having to spend any money at all.

So before you go off to the local DIY store, take a look at what you've already got at home, in the kitchen, garage, shed or even the loft - you may be surprised at what you find and what you can do with it.

Start by using leftover upholstery fabric to sew cushions and throws for a neat co-ordinating touch.

A new lamp will illuminate a dark corner and add detail - try an unusual glass base that sparkles in the light.

Include extra storage by fitting shelves in an alcove and bring items from other rooms for a budget finishing touch - a row of pretty glasses from the kitchen, for example.

Instead of a new carpet you may be able to strip your existing floorboards or spruce them up with floor paint.

Give furniture a new lease of life. Perhaps an armchair could be transformed with a throw and cushions made from leftover fabric, or a table revived with some leftover paint.

For bigger DIY jobs, hire rather than buy expensive equipment that you'll only use occasionally.

Give scruffy, dated pine furniture an up-to-date Scandinavian look by painting it cream, set off with soft shades of duck-egg blue on the walls, and the effect will be stunning.

Remember, you don't have to spend a fortune to transform your home. Be creative and make the most of what you already have.

If you need interior advice, contact Honeysuckle Interiors on 01256 780831 or check out the website at www.honeysuckleinteriors.co.uk