Personalize a fun, tepee-style getaway for children

Dear Julia: I keep seeing images of kids’ rooms on Pinterest with these really cute tepeestyle tents. It seems like something I might be able to make myself. I have found some tutorials online, but I think I would do better with an actual pattern. Can you help me find one? Thanks. — Melissa Hi Melissa: I love those, too! They make a great reading nook for kids, or a spot for them to have a fun hideaway. You also can bring them outside.

Burda Style has a pattern for one — pattern number 6559. This tepee has a curtained entrance that can be tied open, and a window with a shade, which also ties open. And it comes with a round, padded floor and seat cushions. Burda recommends using bamboo poles for stability, or you can find dowels at your local hardware store.

Have fun personalizing it. Choose two different patterned fabrics that coordinate, and alternate them on the panels of the tent. Pictured here are stripes and polka dots, but any durable cotton canvas will work. Good luck!

Dear Julia: My mom loves to knit. She often brings her knitting projects with her wherever she goes. But right now she is just using one of those reusable grocery bags. I’d like to make her something more stylish to carry her yarn and knitting needles in. Do you have any ideas? — Katy M.

Hi Katy: My mom knits, too, and she also brings her knitting with her if she knows she’ll have an opportunity to work on it. Simplicity pattern 8107 has several different organizers and totes to choose from. I’d recommend view A, the larger bucket tote.

But, if you feel comfortable tweaking the pattern a bit, I would add several thin, long outside pockets; your mom can slide her knitting needles in there. Stitch the pockets onto the outside fabric before attaching it to the lining. You could add one long piece of fabric and stitch lines perpendicular to the bottom of the tote — sort of like those fabric roll-up crayon cases. Just be sure the bottom of this pocket is enclosed in the bottom seam of the tote so the needles don’t slip out. I bet your mom will be proud to carry her new knitting bag.

Send questions to Julia Cameron, c/o King Features, 628 Virginia Drive, Orlando, FL 32803, or SewSimpleColumn@gmail.com.