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ORIGINAL: manxcat

You can get free carpet remnants and padding, in most cities, in pieces, leftover from installations, in the dumpsters behind carpet shops.  If the economy were better you could get torn out from offices, that are barely worn.  Quite often there are some rather large pieces, which can be taped together underneath.  With creative placement of furniture, you make a seamless look.  Or use 2 colors for different use living spaces, e.g. bed and clothes, and computer/library areas.
I had a candle workshop, which needed to be heated to about 79 degrees to work the wax, and used my parents garage, similar to yours.  I lined it with plastic and used 2 oil heaters.  It worked very well.  I would do that for this winter, as well as using blankets, and then put a little aside every week, or use your tax rebate to do the job properly with blown in.  Common wisdom for getting out of debt is to pay yourself first, be it $25 a week, and then pay what is owed.  Then you have a stash for larger purchases, or emergencies. You could also add 1/4 inch sheetrock, on top of the existing sheetrock, which is either 3/8 in or 1/2 in, in addition to the insulation.  Will create an additional 8-12 or so degree temp change, depending on winds, trees, snowfall, etc.  And should be able to get it a bit cheaper in the spring.   Some places like  Menards, or Home Depot will discount sheets when they are nicked or have corners missing.  Best of luck.
manxcat
edited to add: and perhaps you will be lucky enough to be near one of the Home Depot stores whick will be closing soon.  should be many sales then.  and likely if you call them you can find out when, etc.