Hidden potential

"I had a West Elm moment," Jill says of the oh-so-cool crepe myrtle coffee table in her living room. Found curbside, Jill took the knotty tree home to begin its transformation. Branches, cut evenly, support a glass top. For stability, screws in a 20-by-20-inch steel plate custom ordered from the local hardware store anchor the stump. Total cost: $35.

Instances like these abound throughout Jill’s home as testament to her frugal savviness. Be sure to get them all to inspire your own home.

• See more of the makeover on MyHomeIdeas.com.