Using left over fabric pieces designated as scraps, an ignominiously undeserved title for usable fabric pieces, or inexpensive cotton muslin can test if a ready-made paper pattern will yield the desired results before committing to cutting what may be very expensive or one of a kind fashion fabric.

Sewers have often been instructed by pattern layout details to not use the fabric selvage edge, a word combined from self-edge, which was expected to be cut off and discarded. These factory loomed finished edges today no longer fill the waste basket or cutting room floor but have surprising uses.

Needles and pins were once so valuable that women may have had just one fine needle with which to do all their hand sewing. Pincushions, keeping pins and needles secure, were often made of pewter or silver in decorative shapes to display on fireplace mantels - thought to bring good luck to the home.

Fabric yo-yos, or fabric rosettes, are those delightful gathered circles sewn from little more than a round disc of fabric and a running stitch so quick and easy to make and yet a pleasant way to make use of colorful fabric scraps.

The invention and general acceptance of the slide fastener or zipper as we have come to know it allowed garment sewing to become a more efficient endeavor for the home sewer. In addition, the rise of sewing pattern companies greatly enhanced the abilities of home sewers to clothe their families.

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.

Muted floral and dreamy print fabrics have always announced the arrival of spring. A spring must-have-the adaptable tote bag, is not only a style-conscious accessory or useable market tote but can also be an environmentally conscious statement. Tote bags are among the easiest of projects to sew too!

The paring of linen or denim and lace in any sewn garment or home decor allows a sense of lighthearted appeal to many. A spring time favorite the ethereal quality of lace and the lightness of fine linen or the surprising paring with the rugged opposite of denim make for charming combinations.

Sewing, as a home-based or cottage industry, is part of the growing legion of service businesses. If you have contemplated starting your own business and have more than competent sewing skills, you may be able to transform a hobby into a profitable business.

Sewing has always been identified with functionality and necessity and is considered to be among the oldest of the textile arts. The necessary sewing skills needed in times past were carefully passed from family to family. Yet, sewing also provided an outlet for individuality and creativity.