NEW YORK, N.Y. - Make flowers out of panty hose. A purse out of a tie. A necklace out of shoelaces.

Beautiful and inexpensive accessories abound if you know how to transform the everyday into the chic.

For do-it-yourself fashion maven Mary Jane Baxter, inspiration comes from something as simple as a cereal box. Her favourite project in her new boho-chic craft book is what she calls the "Emergency Hat." The scenario: a last-minute invite to a posh party, nothing to wear. The solution: Make a pillbox hat out of a cereal box. Wear hat, look fabulous, brag to your friends you made it.

"You don't have to spend lots of money to make something beautiful. You can make a beautiful thing out of something that is pretty humble," Baxter says.

That's the essence of her book, "Chic on a Shoestring: Simple to Sew Vintage-Style Accessories" (Perigee), which features dozens of projects for varying skill levels that can add uniqueness and a bit of glam to any outfit.

Check out some DIY home ideas in our Craft Of The Day slideshow.

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• Gilded Moleskine Journal

  Add some personality to your Moleskine by carving original gilded designs and pressing them against the journal. Head over to <a href="http://www.designmom.com/2012/09/perfect-gift-gilded-moleskine-journal/" target="_blank">Design Mom</a> for the full tutorial.

• Gold Leaf Notebook

  Adding gold leaf details to your journal adds a touch of style and sets it apart from others. Head over to <a href="http://www.hellolucky.com/wordpress/2012/09/05/diy-gold-leaf-notepads/" target="_blank">Hello Lucky</a> for the full tutorial.

• Button & String Journal

  This clever button & string journal is a craft activity that you can using raw materials. Head over to <a href="http://thecreativeplace.blogspot.com/2010/02/ive-been-trying-to-decide-on-what-to.html" target="_blank">The Creative Place</a> for the full tutorial.

• DIY Striped Notebooks

  You'll never guess how this blogger made these pastel colored designs. Here's a hint: they're repurposed office supplies. Head over to <a href="http://papernstitchblog.com/2012/10/17/make-this-striped-one-minute-notebooks-diy/" target="_blank">Paper & Stitch</a> for the full tutorial.

• Book Binding Tutorial

  This is a useful craft if you're interested in binding your own journal. You'll be able to choose from your own selection of papers and include any number of pages you'd like -- as long as the binding keeps it together, of course! Head over to <a href="http://www.modernparentsmessykids.com/2013/03/diy-book-binding-experience-journals.html" target="_blank">Modern Parents Messy Kids</a> for the full tutorial.

• Washi Tape Journal

  These journals are given a little flair using a variety of different patterned tape. Head over to <a href="http://www.designlovefest.com/2012/08/make-it-18/" target="_blank">Design Love Fest</a> for the full tutorial.

• Easter Ideas: Miniature Flower Baskets

  These lightweight <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/03/20/easter-ideas-tiny-flower-baskets_n_2902413.html" target="_blank">miniature flower baskets</a> are the perfect party favors for your Easter celebration.

• Easter Ideas: Egg Hunt Bag

  These <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/03/21/easter-ideas-egg-hunt-bags_n_2917237.html" target="_blank">compact totes</a> will come in handy on your Easter egg hunt search!

• Easter Ideas: Piñata Eggs

  Smashing these <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/03/25/easter-ideas-pinata-eggs_n_2945141.html" target="_blank">confetti-filled pinata eggs</a> can be a fun activity for your festivities.

• Easter Ideas: Alternative Egg Crafts

  Ditch the typical egg-dyeing routine and try a <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/03/19/easter-ideas-alternative-egg-designs_n_2901928.html" target="_blank">different approach to glamouring your eggs</a>.

• Easter Ideas: Paper Crafts

  These <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/03/27/easter-ideas-paper-crafts_n_2957631.html" target="_blank">adorable paper crafts</a> make for easy instant Easter decorations.

• Easter Ideas: Bunny Crafts

  Head over to our list of <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/03/28/easter-ideas-bunny-crafts_n_2963748.html" target="_blank">Easter bunny crafts </a>that you'll want to start working on ASAP!

• Yarn Decoupage Vase

  Set the St. Patrick's Day mood with these <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/03/14/st-patricks-day-decoupage-vase_n_2853027.html?utm_hp_ref=huffpost-home&ir=HuffPost Home" target="_hplink">charming decoupage vases</a>.

• St. Patrick's Day Candle Centerpiece

  Make <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/03/13/st-patricks-day-ideas-candle-centerpiece_n_2854731.html?utm_hp_ref=huffpost-home&ir=HuffPost Home?utm_hp_ref=huffpost-home&ir=HuffPost Home" target="_hplink">a candle centerpiece</a> with green split peas for St. Patrick's Day.

• St.Patrick's Day Shamrock Barrette

  DIY <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/03/12/st-patricks-day-ideas_n_2853111.html" target="_hplink">felt shamrock barrette </a>to show off your spirit.

• St. Patrick's Day Yarn Wreath

  A DIY <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/03/11/st-patricks-day-yarn-wreath_n_2831120.html?utm_hp_ref=huffpost-home&ir=HuffPost Home?utm_hp_ref=huffpost-home&ir=HuffPost Home" target="_hplink">St. Patrick's Day yarn wreath</a> to start the celebration early.

• Paint-Dipped Flower Vases

  Make these <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/03/10/paint-dipped-vases-spring_n_2830169.html?utm_hp_ref=crafts" target="_hplink">paint-dipped flower vases</a> that remind us of spring.

• Paper Photo Lanterns

  Turn paper lanterns into <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/02/20/paper-lanterns-photo-spheres-_n_2715981.html?utm_hp_ref=crafts" target="_hplink">personalized glowing photo spheres</a>.

• Storage Tins

  Dress up your refrigerator with a touch of personality by adding these <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/02/17/-refrigerator-storage-tin-magnets_n_2695726.html?utm_hp_ref=crafts" target="_hplink">DIY storage tin magnets</a>.

• Snowflake Votives

  Relish the last few weeks of winter with these <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/02/15/diy-snowflake-votive_n_2669265.html?utm_hp_ref=crafts" target="_hplink">charming snowflake votives</a>.

• Painted Vintage Silverware

  Give your antique silverware a dose of personality by <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/02/11/vintage-silverware-neon-paint_n_2663527.html?utm_hp_ref=crafts" target="_hplink">painting them with vibrant, neon colors</a>.

• Reusable Fruit and Vegetable Bag

  Reuse vintage flour sacks and turn them into fruit and <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/01/24/reusable-vegetable-fruit-bags_n_2536944.html?utm_hp_ref=crafts" target="_hplink">veggie bags</a>.

• Paint Dipped Bud Vases

  Add some color to your space with these <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/01/23/make-paint-dipped-bud-vas_n_2530606.html?utm_hp_ref=crafts" target="_hplink">paint dipped vases</a>.

• DIY iPhone Cases

  Brighten up your winter by designing your own <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/01/21/a-diy-iphone-case_n_2517019.html?utm_hp_ref=crafts" target="_hplink">iPhone case</a>.

• Retro Inspired Clock

  Make these <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/01/20/retro-inspired-clock-diy_n_2515834.html?utm_hp_ref=crafts" target="_hplink">retro-inspired clocks</a> with wood shims.

• Crepe Paper Fringe String Lights

  <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/01/18/crepe-paper-fringe-string-lights_n_2500859.html?utm_hp_ref=huffpost-home&ir=HuffPost Home" target="_hplink">Make these</a> for any festive occasion.

• Paint Splattered Vases

  These are a throwback to the '80s and <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/01/17/paint-splattered-vase-craft_n_2492400.html" target="_hplink">a blast to make.</a>

• Wood Burned Sign

  Make this <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/01/16/wood-burning-craft_n_2482645.html" target="_hplink">cute rustic decor </a>for your next get-together.

• Painted Platter

  <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/01/15/painted-platter-craft_n_2476038.html?utm_hp_ref=huffpost-home&ir=HuffPost Home" target="_hplink">Update a simple</a> plate with glass paint.

• Paint Dipped Pots

  This is a great way to use<a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/01/14/paint-dipped-pots-craft_n_2449767.html" target="_hplink"> up those extra paint samples</a>.

• Sequin Pillow

  <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/01/13/sequin-throw-pillow-craft_n_2449523.html" target="_hplink">This is made from</a> a forgotten piece of clothing.

• Faux Malachite Hardware

  You'll never guess <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/01/10/faux-malachite-knobs-craft_n_2441673.html" target="_hplink">how these are made. </a>

• Fabric Feathers

  You can <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/01/11/fabric-feathers-craft_n_2448757.html" target="_hplink">use these for countless projects</a>.

• Glitter Thumbtacks

  Turn <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/01/09/glitter-thumbtacks-craft_n_2434717.html?utm_hp_ref=craft-of-the-day">boring office supplies</a> into this.

• Hand Warmers And Ice Packs

  Heat them up or cool them down -- these <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/01/08/hand-warmers-ice-packs-craft_n_2425960.html?utm_hp_ref=craft-of-the-day">hot/cold packs</a> can do it all.

• Linen Napkins

  Add some color to your table and <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/01/07/linen-napkins-craft_n_2411487.html?utm_hp_ref=craft-of-the-day">never use a paper napkin</a> again!

• Braided Rug

  Turn scrap fabric into a <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/01/06/braided-rug-craft_n_2404200.html?utm_hp_ref=craft-of-the-day">bright and welcoming rug</a>.

• Book Page Boxes

  <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/01/04/book-page-boxes-craft_n_2403665.html?utm_hp_ref=huffpost-home&ir=HuffPost%20Home">Try this</a> instead of throwing out your old books.

• Painted Votive Candles

  A craft project that will <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/01/03/painted-votive-candle-holders-craft_n_2398283.html?utm_hp_ref=craft-of-the-day">help you unwind</a>.

• Snowball Wreath

  Stay festive after the holidays with this <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/01/02/snowball-wreath-craft_n_2389757.html?utm_hp_ref=craft-of-the-day">wintry wreath</a>.

• Pom Pom Bookmarks

  A simple way to <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2013/01/01/pom-pom-bookmark-craft_n_2389135.html?utm_hp_ref=craft-of-the-day">never lose your place</a> in a book again!

• Honey Bear Vases

  An <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/11/12/craft-of-the-day-gold-honey-bear-vases_n_2094626.html?utm_hp_ref=craft-of-the-day">adorable way</a> to repurpose these little guys!

• Polka Dot Pillowcases

  These <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/11/07/craft-of-the-day-polka-dot-pillowcases_n_2088768.html">spotted pillowcases</a> will help add some personal flair to your bedroom.

• Add some flair to your fridge with these bright and colorful magnets.

  Add some flair to your fridge with these <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/11/06/craft-of-the-day-neon-wood-magnets_n_2088075.html?utm_hp_ref=huffpost-home&ir=HuffPost%20Home">bright and colorful magnets</a>.

• Magazine Page Heart Dish

  Reuse old magazines to create an <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/11/06/craft-of-the-day-magazine-page-heart-dish_n_2083477.html?utm_hp_ref=huffpost-home&ir=HuffPost%20Home">adorable and useful box</a> that holds jewelry or other small items.

• Pumpkin Patch Fall Wreath

  Keep <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/11/05/craft-of-the-day-pumpkin-patch-fall-wreath_n_2077058.html?utm_hp_ref=huffpost-home&ir=HuffPost%20Home">the pumpkin decor</a> going throughout this fall season.

• Rustic Birch Bark Candles

  Add a <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/11/01/craft-of-the-day-birch-bark-candles_n_2058318.html?utm_hp_ref=huffpost-home&ir=HuffPost%20Home">natural look</a> to your fall table setting.

• Indoor Mason Jar Herb Garden

  The perfect way to <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/10/31/craft-of-the-day-indoor-mason-jar-herb-garden_n_2051655.html?utm_hp_ref=huffpost-home&ir=HuffPost%20Home">bring your herbs indoors </a>this winter.

• Color-Blocked Coasters

  Add a <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/10/31/craft-of-the-day-color-blocked-coasters_n_2049875.html?utm_hp_ref=huffpost-home&ir=HuffPost%20Home">splash of color</a> to your table and protect it at the same time.

• Halloween Candy Printables

  These <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/10/29/craft-of-the-day-halloween-candy-printables_n_2041213.html?utm_hp_ref=huffpost-home&ir=HuffPost%20Home">candy printables</a> were designed exclusively for HuffPost Home readers by Carla Chadwick from <a href="http://api.viglink.com/api/click?format=go&key=b057a0c538f3356fa4383d50d05abcbf&loc=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.huffingtonpost.com%2F2012%2F10%2F29%2Fcraft-of-the-day-halloween-candy-printables_n_2041213.html%3Futm_hp_ref%3Dhuffpost-home%26ir%3DHuffPost%2520Home&v=1&libid=1351792186409&out=http%3A%2F%2Fprintablepartykits.com%2F&ref=http%3A%2F%2Fwww.huffingtonpost.com%2F2012%2F10%2F31%2Fcraft-of-the-day-color-blocked-coasters_n_2049875.html%3Futm_hp_ref%3Dhuffpost-home%26ir%3DHuffPost%2520Home&title=Craft%20Of%20The%20Day%3A%20Halloween%20Printables%20To%20Personalize%20Your%20Candy&txt=Carla%20Chadwick%20from%20Printable%20Party%20Kits&jsonp=vglnk_jsonp_13517923719541">Printable Party Kits</a>!

• Book Page Pumpkins

  These <a href="http://www.huffingtonpost.com/2012/10/29/craft-of-the-day-book-page-pumpkins_n_2039041.html">festive decorations</a> are perfect for the entire fall season!

Baxter has long created her own accessories, so when she suggests making corsages out of ribbons and a beanie out of an old sweater, she's speaking from experience. As a teen, she sewed herself clothes she otherwise couldn't afford. In college, she began making hats. And as a foreign correspondent for the BBC, she was known as the journalist who took her sewing machine everywhere.

She left her full-time journalism job nine years ago to study as a hat maker, and has gone on to work with milliner Stephen Jones and designer Marc Jacobs. She paid her way around Britain for a BBC series called "Make Do And Mend" that had her trade her DIY skills — making curtains or hats, for instance — for lodging and other travel needs.

Although she has experience in the upper echelons of fashion — she had her own collection at the Harvey Nichols flagship store in London — she still likes to change up her look on the thrifty side.

Baxter starts with the basics, listing what would-be fashionistas should have on hand: beads, buttons, feathers and fabric. And where they should look: thrift stores, garage sales, flea markets and craft stores.

Ideas for dressing up an outfit can be surprisingly simple, she says. Get an iron-on patch and put it on a black T-shirt. Swap out a sweater's old buttons for interesting ones. Take a plain top and affix tiny ribbons in varying colours down the centre.

Other projects include creating a summer top out of a single square scarf; transforming plain lace-up shoes into Oxfords by putting leather or suede on them; and making a drapey spring scarf out of lace scraps.

And if you don't sew, no problem. Glue is not the enemy, she jokes.

She hopes her vintage-looking, dainty designs will draw eyes, start conversations and generate compliments.

"Homemade doesn't have to mean it looks homemade anymore," Baxter says.

Oh, and that pillbox hat out of a cereal box? It starts by cutting two strips from the cereal box and gluing them to fabric, then tracing a CD on the same cereal-box cardboard and cutting out a circle. After just a few hours, more gluing and some elastic, you'll be ready to dazzle — and brag — at your last-minute party.

___

Here's a project from Baxter's book, a change purse made out of an old tie:

TIE CHANGE PURSE

(Reprinted from "Chic on a Shoestring," by Mary Jane Baxter, by arrangement with Perigee.)

What you'll need:

— Old tie (a wide one works best)

— Measuring tape

— Scissors

— Needle and thread

— Pins

— Little piece of Velcro

— Button or other decoration for front

— Strong, clear, all-purpose adhesive (optional)

Directions:

— Take the tie, measure 13 inches straight up from the point and cut across the fabric.

— Place the tie on the table with the wrong side facing you and the point at the top.

— Fold over the raw edge by 5/8 inch and then fold over again so the raw edge is hidden. Pin in place and then stitch down using small slip stitches, trying not to go through to what will be the finished side of your purse. As the tie is double thickness this shouldn't be too tricky.

— Fold this neatened edge upward about 3 1/2 to 4 inches (you need to make enough room to stash your bank or travel card). Pin in place and then sew the side seams down. Again try not to let your stitches show.

— Peel apart the Velcro and pin one bit on to the front of the purse and then stitch down. Fold over the pointed flap, so that you can match up the other piece of Velcro and sew this in place too. (It doesn't matter if your stitches go all the way through now, as the decoration on the front of the purse will cover up any mess - hurrah!)

— Now for the final flourish. Position your chosen decoration on the front of the purse over any stitches and then sew or stick on neatly. Remember that sewing is always stronger than gluing — so do sew your decoration in place if need be (you'll have to sew through the Velcro — but that's fine).