Dear Eunice Farmer: My mother does a lot of sewing and craft work. l know it’s early, but I would like to purchase something very special for her for Mother’s Day. Can you give me a suggestion? – Terry A.

Dear Terry: I have written before about my favorite lamp for any work that requires a true-color light. It is the OTT-Lite, and it can be found in most sewing stores. There are many versions – both tabletop and floor-lamp styles. I especially love the new designer lamps that can be used everywhere, including sophisticated settings. They have a milky-white, marbleized glass shade and a brushed nickel or mocha pearl base. Check them out. They make perfect gifts; everyone loves them.

Dear Eunice Farmer: I haven’t done any sewing for about 20 years. I’ve just retired and want to begin again. Fabrics are so different today. I feel I really need a new up-to-date sewing book to help me. Can you suggest one? – Fern L.

Dear Fern: I have personally reviewed many sewing books and found one to be outstanding – “The New Sewing Essentials,” from the Singer Sewing Reference Library. It covers just about every sewing technique in full-color, detailed photographs. Concise step-by-step instructions take the guesswork out of even the most complicated construction. I can’t recommend this book highly enough. If you can’t find it in your local fabric store, you may send me $20 (includes postage), and I will be happy to mail you one. Send to Eunice Farmer, Box 31729, St. Louis, MO 63131. This makes a wonderful gift for anyone who sews; there is always more and more to learn.

Dear Eunice Farmer: We’re going on a short cruise. l would like to take one jacket with several other matching parts that can be mixed. In other words, l want as few pieces as possible that will take me anywhere. – Carey

Dear Carey: I have selected McCall’s 2156, sized 4-22. It features the very popular kimono-type jacket, which can serve as a blouse or a long coat. It can be made sleeveless or with long or short sleeves, and it has collar variations. Choose the length of jacket that is most flattering for your figure. Pair this wonderful jacket with shorts, pants, Capri pants or skirts. The same pattern can become very casual or very dressy. The choice is in your fabric selection. This is truly a wardrobe that will fit into every occasion.

Each week, a reader wins a prize for sending in a helpful sewing hint. This week’s winner is Kay Phillips of Washington, Kan. She will receive a thumb pincushion. Her tip: “Before placing an applique on the front of knit shirts, I fold the garment in half, lining up the side seams. I use a warm iron, and make a small press mark at the center front of the garment. It’s easy to center the applique without looking for a ruler.”

© 2003 King Features Syndicate Inc.