Sewers use the terms pile or napped interchangeably when referring to fabrics with a raised soft surface simply as having a nap. A piled or napped fabric looks darker or lighter depending on how it is viewed and is said to be directional. The rich surface texture needs a few sewing considerations.

Fleece is a deep pile polyester knit that provides warmth without weight is washable and machine dryable. Fleece has a soft and fuzzy texture and comes in a rainbow of solid colors and prints as well as novelty and licensed designs. Gifts can be quick and easy to sew with this very forgiving fabric.

Textiles are among the world's most fragile artifacts. Throughout the centuries fabrics have been treated with chemical solutions meant to enhance their appearances. Silks, for example, were often weighted with metallic salts, mostly consisting of tin or iron. Preservation becomes a challenge.

Memories of cherished traditions, many from not so long ago, allow us to not only reminiscence but endeavor to carry on those beloved customs as well. Knowing how to sew using basic hand stitches is one of those customs worth knowing and teaching to a willing learner.

Halloween or Hallowe’en is a day to remember the departed and scare away evil spirits. The day is a fun fall activity for much of the Western world and all about carving Jack-O-Lanterns, Trick or Treating, ghostly superstitions, flickering candles, black bats and steely-eyed cats. Quick, let's sew!

With the slow advance of cold weather and anticipating fall/winter holidays ahead sewers may be considering what gifts to sew or new ornaments for the holiday tree. There are easy scrap fabric projects to sew for sure however why not make them memorable with the added aromatic scents of the season?

As a national U.S. holiday, Thanksgiving is celebrated on the fourth Thursday of November. It is a day to remember that first gathering of English settlers and Native Americans for a harvest feast in 1621. At that time sewing quilts, clothing, spinning and rug making were vital daily endeavors.

Discerning, urbane, refined are words that seem more related to our contemporary understanding of what vintage encompasses rather than labeling an item as old or outdated. Our subjective judgement of what appeals at the moment to our sense of beauty and desire is surely a function of many elements.

Dressing up in costume for Halloween remains an enduring childhood tradition. Something quick and easy to sew or no-sew is often a must for busy households. Costumes for children should be easy to make and comfortable to wear with safety concerns and face mask wearing utmost.

When autumn seems chillier than expected, sewing projects made with fleece fabric seems a great compromise to using heaver woolen materials for outdoor wear. Today's fleece fabric can be anti-pill, ultra soft and perfect for a variety of sewing projects.