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Window Treatments, Furniture Resurrection and More Window Treatments, Furniture Resurrection and More From "Ask DIY Decorating & Crafts" episode DADD-112

Q: I have two adjacent windows in a corner. What can I do to dress them up?

A: (Ask DIY decorating expert Bea Pila) To dress up the windows, use draperies that consist of two panels, one for each side of each window, for a total of four panels. They will look very lush and elegant if they pool on the floor. You should be able to do this by simply purchasing the longest length available.

Another tip is to buy fabrics that are very soft and flowing, then tie them back with some of the beautiful tiebacks you can find at the store. Or create the illusion of height by the simple trick of hanging the curtains much higher than the top of the window.

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Q: Should I reupholster my furniture or buy new?

A: This is a good question because reupholstering can cost as much as (and sometimes more than) a new piece of furniture. Here are my guidelines:

• Is the piece an antique or a family heirloom?

• Does it have a unique style?

If you answered yes to either of these, it's probably worth reupholstering. But if the piece doesn't have a high-quality frame or unique details, you're better off buying new.

Q: I collect antique pottery. I'd like to know how to display to best show it off.

A: First let me tell you what not to do: don't sprinkle the pottery throughout a room or the house. You'll want to keep your collectibles and keepsakes together to really show off their beauty. Here are a few guidelines:

• Work in odd numbers (this creates more pleasing displays).

• Think about the background: it can detract from what you're trying to display.

• Choose a strong focal point and then fill in around it.

• Vary heights of the displayed items.

All these tips will work with any type of accessorizing that you're trying to do. And here's a bonus tip: Display things that you lov, and you'll enjoy looking at them as much as you'll enjoying showing them off.

Q: What are some creative ways to divide a room into separate living spaces?

A: Here are some of my favorites:

• Furniture groupings are one of the best tricks for creating separate spaces.

• Attaching matchstick or bamboo blinds to the ceiling helps create "adjustable walls."

• Placing bookcases as room dividers also helps to create new space in a room.

Q: How can I protect my new wood tables from scratches from my young children? I was thinking of putting glass on the tops.

A: I wouldn't recommend the glass: it'll make your home look like a hotel lobby -- and kids banging on glass could be dangerous. I'd suggest putting a good protective coating of wax on the tables.

Money-Saver Tips:

I have some great ideas for luxurious home decorating on a budget:

1. Use inexpensive materials lavishly and expensive materials judiciously: use cotton for slipcovers, table skirts and draperies, and save those pricey fabrics for throw pillows and trim.

2. If you have to choose between costly materials and costly labor, go for the labor. Elegance is found in the details: a talented seamstress, trim carpenter, etc., can make inexpensive materials look like a million bucks.