A fabric with "nap" has gone through a manufacturing finishing process that raises the fiber ends to the surface where they are then shorn, brushed or simply left upright. This creates a sculpted surface texture as the raised fibers all lie in one direction.

Refashioning a unique item of clothing whether in the style of shabby-chic, causally altered or a remix that is whimsical, elegant, and eco-friendly is satisfying and creative fun. Re-purposing clothing today is a continuing trend.

The splendor that is autumn is soon upon us; a change of seasons is inevitable. Now is a great time to sew with fabrics the shades of nature’s timeless colors of fall – assortments of reds, golds, oranges, browns, and tans - all nearly invite us to our sewing workspaces.

Plaids have always had a traditional strong presence for the fall and winter seasons. From the many customary tartan plaids of the Scottish Highlands to the red, black, camel and white English Burberry signature design – plaids are a very distinct and memorable style maker.

No child can resist a huggable soft toy, especially one sewn with care just for that individual youngster. Whether bears, or bunnies, charmingly dressed mice, traditional rag dolls or enchanted characters from storybooks of old, children are delighted to have a clutchable treasure all their own.

As the warmest days of summer are replaced with the cooler days of autumn, thoughts turn to back to school days, upcoming harvest fairs and fall festivities. A great time to bring out the woolen garments of prior cold seasons that may no longer fit well but may still have a useful recycled life.

The familiar colors of autumn displayed on a fireplace mantel can evoke the beauty of fall. Sew triangular shapes of fabrics chosen in the golds, yellows, oranges, browns and reds that remind us of the seasonal transition from the intense warmth of summer into cooler autumn days.

Prims are a form of folk art - handmade decorative crafts assembled from fabrics of muted gingham, plaids, natural linens, tea-colored muslin, and burlap. Often accented with weathered boards, punched tins, and tied with twine or jute or raffia - prim crafts suggest a nostalgia for times past.

Although summer lingers and many school kids remain on seasonal break the coming cooling days of autumn are near. Our sewing projects can often take on a compelling urgency at this time. Like squirrels busily foraging we search favored fabric stores and our fabric stash for just the right project.

The terms cozy, rustic, Americana, and old-fashioned come to mind when considering patchwork items. The fabric patches are all of the same size, usually squares distinguishing them from "crazy" patchwork designs where pieces are of asymmetrical sizes assembled in a thoughtful yet random design.