There are times when what you want is just not something that you can get. Any one that has every had a dorm room can completely relate to that concept. It is times like these that require you to think a little outside of the box so that you can use what you have until you can get what you want.

1. Boxes – although they are not ideal for storage they are also often free. Boxes can be stacked and flipped and covered with a scrap piece of material to make a side table. The flaps can be cut off the top of the boxes to create filing baskets. Pick up a couple of boxes and let your imagination go wild.

2. Concrete blocks – If you visit enough construction sites you may be able to pick up a few concrete blocks at no cost (some people are just happy to have then hauled away). Concrete blocks can be used to create raised flower beds outside. Inside they can be used to raise furniture or even make furniture.

3. Fabric tubes – those big tall cardboard tubes that hold upholstery fabric in particular make great decorating tools. We used one, topped with material leaves, to create a palm tree for a jungle themed bedroom (we hung stuffed animals from the tree). I have also seen them used as curtain rods.

4. Plastic crates – this is another great find that can usually be gotten for little or nothing (depending on your bargaining skills). They can be used as shelves, topped with a scrap piece of plywood to create a table and a dozen other furniture items as well.

You may not be in a position to get all the things that you want but there are things that you can create to help you get by. Repurpose old items to create something completely new (put a piece of plywood on a filing cabinet to make a desk) or find old items and make them new again. The key is to use what you have for what you need until you can get what you want.