Beautiful cotton fabric prints in summer’s riotous colors beckon the sewer to create a few easy-to-sew projects to dress a summer picnic table that will be sure to add to any happy outdoor gathering. Assemble a fabric teepee for the little ones too!

Finding ways to use fabric leftovers from sewing projects brings as much joy as finally finishing the larger project from which scraps are inevitably born. Think of using leftover fabrics when beginning a new sewing project as a nod to zero waste and thoughtful sustainability towards our planet.

Childhood sleepovers create lasting memories of summer time fun, like a camping experience but only indoors or maybe in a backyard tent and of course under the watchful eyes of patient adult supervisors. Sewers can add to the fun event.

Before there were ready made, easy-to-use store-bought dye pigments, natural dyes were the only way to apply color to fabrics and clothing. Historically, colorants were obtained from roots, nuts, bark, shells, insects, some minerals, fruits, vegetables and flowers. Dye fabric using nature's gifts!

To sew a truly professional-looking garment it is important to consider how the inside of the garment will look when completed as well as the finished outside. Finishing seam edges not only will prevent the cut edges from fraying but can allow sewn seams an extra measure of security from wear.

Memory pillows to sew in honor of a loved one or to preserve memories from an enjoyable vacation, graduation, holiday times or family and friends gathering, can become charming keepsakes to hold and cherish. They are easy to sew, and can be especially comforting reminders of times past.

Indoor-friendly games help to temporarily relieve the anxiety and pent-up energy for some children who find themselves suddenly in a non-routine sort of day, whether from uncooperative weather or other unforeseen events. Engaging them, at least for a little while, may be helpful in a fun activity.

The heat of summer certainly slows down the pace of many things, including our sewing efforts. Special occasions and more pop up on our calendars on a regular basis despite the scorching heat. Finding a time-saver sewing project may be just the right inspiration needed for a creative sewing session.

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.

The humble bandana is an iconic summer fabric favorite. Like its Americana counterpart - blue jeans, it has withstood the test of time. Bandanas are thrift-store, dollar-store, discount-darlings readily available, inexpensive and able to add instant whimsical appeal to clothing and home décor.