Sporty vests perfect for father-son

Dear Julia: I want to make something for my husband and son to wear that matches. But it needs to be something “cool” that my husband would actually like to wear. Everything I find seems to be too childish or silly for him. Do you have any ideas for me? Jessica S. Hi Jessica: This sounds like a fun project, but for me, I would need to make sure my son thought it was cool enough to wear. He is so picky with his clothing! I did find a pattern that I think might work for you. It is Simplicity pattern 1329 Boys’ and Men’s Vests.

These are not the dressy vests that you would wear with a suit, but the sportier kind that your husband and son can layer in the colder weather to keep warm. The pattern comes with two views: a fleece vest with a contrasting collar band and chest pocket, and a quilted and lined version. Both views have zippered side pockets.

I like the idea in the picture here. The father and son are not wearing identical vests; instead, they coordinate, with the father in a solid-orange vest, while the son is wearing a blue vest with an orange pocket. Choose complementary colors that both your husband and son like, and have fun with it!

Hi Julia: My daughter is pregnant with her first child. I want to sew something special for her. She has requested one of those cloth shopping cart covers. You put it where the baby sits so it is more comfortable, and it protects him from germs.

I know I could purchase one at a store, but I enjoy sewing and would like to make this for my grandchild. Do you know where I could find a pattern for one? Lindsay P. Hi Lindsay: Congratulations to you and your daughter! That is exciting news! I found two options for you. The first is a downloadable pattern by Muffy Duck Design. It comes in two sizes — large and small — that can be customized. The pattern features two internal pockets, two external pockets, three toy-loop positions, a key fob, a waist strap, two different options for the handle cover and a cushion.

You can download the pattern from Craftsy.com. Search for “Shopping Trolley Liner.”

My second suggestion is McCall’s pattern number 5721, 3-in-1 Shopping Cart and High Chair Cover. The pattern comes in two sizes, one for a standard single-size shopping cart and one for a twin-size shopping cart. The cover also can be placed over a restaurant high chair. And it folds up into a tote bag, so it’s easy to carry with you.