The imagery, origin and history of Valentine's Day may entertain many a narrative clouded by time, yet the double lobed triangular shape heart symbol, by no means an accurate anatomical figure, seems to have universally prevailed as a popular reminder of love and affection.

With rustic hospitality assembled into stunning folk art or unstructured design, unassuming strips of wool fabric, thin thread-worn bed linens, denim jeans and shirts made soft by much wearing, today’s modern t-shirts and more are economically transformed into humble and functional floor coverings.

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.

Thread is thread, right? Practically any continuous spun twisted thin filament can be used as thread when needed. Since thread, of whatever kind, literally holds everything together it is important to try and match the sewing thread to the specific sewing project.

The terms cozy, rustic, Americana, and old-fashioned come to mind when considering patchwork items. The fabric patches are all of the same size, usually squares distinguishing them from "crazy" patchwork designs where pieces are of asymmetrical sizes assembled in a thoughtful yet random design.

Consider DIY fabric care and fiber content labels to include along with unique home-made identifying labels for home sewn garments or fabric craft items. Enhance the quality of your sewn creation, promote a budding brand, and lend a professionalism that will set home sewn items apart from others.

The simple beauty and homespun warmth of holiday ornaments lovingly made bring many a smile to all who have ever gazed on an old-fashioned decorated Christmas tree. Simple sewn ornaments bring elegance to the time-honored tradition of decorating a pine tree brought indoors for seasonal goodwill.

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.

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.

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.