All you need is a metre of fabric and a few supplies for these three DIY projects from Mary Dobson:

1. Lamp shade cover

Instructions:

Begin by laying the fabric on a flat surface. Mark where the seam already exists on the shade, and roll the shade across the fabric, roughly marking the path of the shade along the top edge and the bottom edge, until you return the seam again.

Cut the fabric a generous 2 to 3 inches larger in all directions. With the right side out, drape the fabric smoothly over the shade, securing in place with clothes pegs. Overlap the fabric where the seam already exists on the shade, turning the cut edge of the top layer under for neatness.

Trim away all excess, so that overlap is approximately 1 inch. Glue in place. Ensure that the fabric is as smooth as possible. Where the fabric is wrapped to the inside of the shade top and bottom, mark and trim evenly to approximately 1/2 inch. Apply glue to top cut edge and wrap to the back. Secure with pegs until dry. Repeat along bottom edge.

2. Towel tub mat

Instructions:

Cut one rectangle to desired size from a bath towel. Cut another rectangle to same size in coordinating fabric. Place both layers with right sides together and pin to secure. Machine stitch all around outside edge, pivoting at each corner and leaving an approximately 5 inch opening along one of the long sides. Clip across each corner to remove excess fabric and turn right side out. Press flat. Hand stitch the opening closed. Use a non-slip grip mat under towelling to prevent slipping.

3. Table runner

Instructions:

Cut 2 layers of fabric in the desired shape of runner, approximately 54″ x 18″. You may chose a simple rectangular shape or form a point at either end of the runner. Place the two layers right sides together and machine stitch all around. Leave a 4 to 5 inch opening along one long side. Flip right side out and press. Hand sew opening closed.