Focusing on the well-being of family as well as those whose welfare we care about and concern for our communities during the outbreak of coronavirus (COVID-19) places us all in unprecedented times. We adapt as best we can. Try sewing cleaning cloth replacements when disposable resources are scare.

The historical significance of the hankie, this most unassuming of clothing accessories, a mere square of delicate cloth usually hand embroidered, at times bejeweled by the wealthy, and in its unadorned form and utilitarian use carried in men’s breast or pants pocket cannot be denied.

Baby shower gifts can be oh-so-expensive. Handmade gifts are always welcome so why not sew some adorable and much needed baby items? Safety and comfort, ease of care, and ultimate softness are considerations when choosing fabrics. Cotton and cotton blends are the best fabrics for baby.

Whether known as bunting, garland, pennant or banner, the breezy hanging sections of cloth on cord or rope convey a visual message. Just as ships use a series of flags to convey identification messages, one of accomplishment, seasons or celebrations can be sewn and strung as a visual announcement.

Whether known as plushies, softies, or stuffies, stuffed children's soft toys are a delight to sew using a few fabric scraps or knitted fabrics. Soft stuffed simple shapes and whimsical animals make for creative play especially when sewn using colorful and appealing print fabrics.

Having a front door wreath is a common even year-round custom with a different one for each season or to announce a special occasion. Often assembled out of fragrant evergreens, the Christmas door wreath seems especially welcoming as it signals for all that hospitality is no stranger at that home.

As summer wanes and reveals nature's bountiful harvest, the last of outdoor seasonal gatherings are celebrated. The blistering heat of summer temps will wind down and mellow into the still warm but cooler days of autumn. Time to gather for seasonal festivities sharing good food and good times.

Somehow summer time brings a casual less structured lifestyle sentiment to clothes and home textiles. Tie-dying traditional T-shirts and cloth yardage remains an easy and economical way to express that casual individual esthetic.

How is your sewing going? Are your current sewing projects sparked by thoughts of seasonal store promotions for Christmas in July, gift needed for an upcoming New Grad, dorm room ideas for Off to College, or school necessities for K-12 Back to School?

Summer and backyard BBQ parties go hand in hand. Good food, family and friends, and happy conversations. When there is little time or budget to plan for inspired theme decorations, let just a few cotton gingham prints, denim scraps, or colorful paisley bandanas add to the party atmosphere.