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Project Possibilities

Patterns without too many curves, set-in sleeves or darts are ideal. A dolman or kimono sleeve with a loose fit is suitable when more detail is desired. If a fitted garment is an absolute must, fuse the fabric to a knit or woven interfacing. This allows for better sewing control but eliminates the fabric stretch.

Create a shrug that serves many purposes for bearing the cold (2). Wrap it around your neck as a scarf on your way to a party, and then remove your winter coat and wear the shrug over a slinky dress. Wear the shrug into the office, and then drape it over your legs while sitting in a chilly cubicle.

Make a traditional baby blanket for a quick and practical project (3). Use a coordinating polka-dot satin lining to provide a cooler alternative to the fuzzy bouclé knit.

Stitch a soft robe for a youngster in your life (4). Stitch flannel strips to the inside front edges for a comfortable edge finish. Personalize the robe with appliqué, a monogram or embroidery designs.

A scarf with pockets keeps hands warm when mittens can't be found (5). With your hands at your sides, enlist a helper to measure from fingertip to fingertip around the back of your neck. Add 16" to this length measurement for an adult size; add 12" for a child size. Cut a 15"-wide fabric rectangle by the determined length. Right sides together, fold the rectangle in half lengthwise. Sew the long edge with a 1/2" seam and zigzag stitch. Turn the tube right side out. Finish the short raw edges by attaching a non-stretch trim. Fold up the short edges (8" for an adult, 6" for a child) toward the scarf right side, creating pockets. Zigzag stitch the pocket sides, leaving the upper edge free. For further embellishment, hand stitch f lowers and leaves to the scarf right side using basic embroidery stitches and embroidery f loss. Place hot-fix crystals in the flower centers.

From the November 2006 issue of Sew News magazine.