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Remember those Magic Eye posters that were popular in the ’90s? Look at it one way and it’s just a psychedelic poster, look at it another way and it’s a picture of dolphins swimming. Sometimes it’s the same with home accessories: look at something one way and all you see is its original use. Look at it in a new way, and suddenly you’ve got something else entirely.

I love using this approach when decorating. Not only do I save money by not running out and buying something new, but I also get a thrill when someone compliments my creativity.

Take this little martini glass (which was part of a set until its twin had an unfortunate incident with the floor). Used for its original purpose, it’s chic and eye-catching. It became 10-times moreso when I used it to hold dip at a recent cocktail party.

Glasses like this would also make great dessert cups. Fill them with some pudding or ice cream, top with a little fresh fruit, and you’ve got a dessert dish guaranteed to impress your guests (and maybe even Martha Stewart, if she should happen to drop by). A friend of mine uses similar glasses as a chic way to hold Q-tips and cotton balls in her bathroom.

One glass, endless decorating possibilities, and you don’t need to spend a dime. It’s a beautiful thing. Browse these two articles on about.com for more fun accessorizing ideas: http://interiordec.about.com/od/articlesonbasics/a/finishingtouch.htm and http://interiordec.about.com/cs/quicktips/qt/qt_customize.htm.

Happy decorating and regards!