SEWING Winter may be the perfect time to create collection of scarves

The book abounds with unique ideas.
By SUSAN KHALJE
SCRIPPS HOWARD
Maybe it's the wintery weather, but I've been wearing an awful lot of scarves lately -- I think they've become my most versatile accessory.
One favorite is a large square of silk and wool challis imprinted with a Persian miniature design; another is long and narrow, hand-painted by a German friend (it was a birthday gift, painted in colors that she thought would suit me -- how wonderfully personal).
I love a vibrant and richly-patterned red silk square that my sister brought me from a trip to the Far East; another treasure is an enormous square of lighter-than-air creamy white silk, richly embossed and the perfect evening wrap.
I thought of all of those favorites, and more, when I came across one of Linda Lee's books on my bookshelf: "Scarves to Make."
What a treasure trove! To quote the book jacket, "The design ideas are diverse, and each one is exciting, innovative and fun to make. "Scarves to Make" is a collection of exquisite scarf designs from the country's best-known art-to-wear designers. Along with a section on basic sewing techniques, detailed instructions are included for each scarf."
A favorite
One of my favorites -- this one was by Stephanie Valley -- was made from a length of silk georgette. Wonder-Under was used to fuse silk charmeuse leaves onto the georgette. It reminded me of similar scarves I've seen in boutiques, and though the one in the book is made from white charmeuse and white georgette, I can picture similar treatments in all sorts of colors, especially since sheer fabrics are involved.
Another that I loved was by Jean Cacicedo. She's a highly regarded creator of fabulous garments that often involve the felting and slashing of fabric. The scarf she makes for the book is simple and striking -- and what fun it would be so to see wool jersey transform so dramatically, thanks to a little hot water, a washing machine and a clothes dryer!
I was enchanted by a scarf with organdy-ribbon rosebuds sewn to the ends -- this one was created by Stephanie Valley and Linda Lee. I couldn't help but think it would be the perfect accessory for bridesmaids.
I think it's time to raid my fabric stash to see what has potential as a scarf. I hope you'll be inspired to do the same, and keep yourself warm and stylish at the same time.
"Scarves to Make" is published by the Taunton Press.