Sew your own space-saving travel accessories as a great way to use up those valuable fabric leftovers. The possibilities are endless: foldable totes, security pouches for valuables, shoe protectors, jewelry protectors, lined insulated make-up bags, car organizers, and jewelry roll-ups to name a few.

Whimsical, nostalgic and all together charming, hankies - the word shortened from handkerchief, has a long and storied history. Although no longer used as an accessory of dressy fashion or fluttered flirtatiously, vintage hankies today remain in the realm of collectibles and textile art.

With just a minimum of time and little fabric, beautiful spring blooms can be created that herald in the gentlest of seasons, much like the real ones that tentatively push up out of loosening soil to feel the warmth of the sun and life-giving rains once again.

Inspired DIY gifts from the heart can be crafted year-round for holidays and celebrations that can become treasured remembrances for the recipients. Gifts can be made quickly and easily with a few fabric leftovers, bits of lace and ribbons for embellishment and of course, creative imagination.

Springtime often creates a sense of obligation to look anew at the environment around us, to acknowledge the unfolding of this tender season as renewal and as a conversation to move forward. Even simple changes to the spaces we inhabit can bring about a refreshing revitalization.

RFID blocking fabric can prevent what is essentially silent and devious electronic pickpocketing. Wallets, purses, and totes can be lined with this fabric rather than the pragmatic but unappealing use of aluminum foil to become a signal blocking container. RFID fabric used as lining is easy to sew.