Sometimes it can be a challenge to find just the right gift for a hard-working dad to show your appreciation on that special day honoring fathers. Besides photo frame montages showing several family pictures, the ever-traditional silk tie, kid’s hand-print art, or World's Best Dad coffee cups and trophies, finding a meaningful special gift can present a dilemma. Consider an easy sew or no-sew idea for unique exceptional gift giving.

Arm Chair Remote Caddy - great for corralling those TV, DVD, Cable, or streaming device remotes. Sew two rectangles approximately 14-inch wide by 48-inch long (or any size desired) right sides together leaving an opening for turning. Trim seam, clip corners, turn, press and stitch opening closed. Make a pocket by folding up by one third one short end stitching each side edge closed. Stitch several vertical lines on the pocket to make pocket sections to hold the remotes.

Cooling Scarf - beat the summer heat when mowing the lawn or gardening with a scarf that cools. A small amount of clear water absorbing crystals (found in the floral or craft section or online) and just 1/4-yard of fabric or even a colorful bandana can make this simple chillin’ scarf. Cut the fabric 8-inch wide by desired length of the scarf - enough to tie around the neck loosely. Fold long ways right-sides together, stitch a 1/4-inch seam along the length and one short end. Turn right-sides out, fill with 2 teaspoons of the water absorbent crystals and stitch the end closed. To use, soak the scarf in a bowl of water placed in the refrigerator for about 15 minutes. The crystals will absorb the water. Tie loosely around the neck for several minutes of cooling relief. The cooling scarf can be used over and over even after the crystals have evaporated the water by simply soaking with water once again.

Sunglasses Case - use purchased potholders for a simple to sew version. Oversized potholders work best for large sunglasses or regular size potholders for most all others. For an easy-sew version, fold the potholder in half long ways to create the sunglasses pouch. Leave enough room at the top for the sunglasses to slide in and out easily. Hand sew or machine sew opposite the fold along the long side edge and across the bottom to secure the pocket. Leave an opening in the top side edge. Easy beginner project.

Chef's Apron - just 1 and 1/4-yard of denim or duck canvas can make an easy grilling apron for that special dad. From a rectangle 32-inch by 38-inch or size desired, cut off both top corners diagonally from one short end to achieve the traditional chef apron top. Serge all edges to prevent raveling or turn under 1/4-inch and straight stitch all edges. For the neck strap, cut a strip 24-inches long by 4-inches wide. Press long edges toward the center, fold along the center and stitch close to the edge. Stitch short ends to each side of the top neck edge. Make waist ties in the same way and attach at center waist. Add a jeans back pocket to the center front for embellishment by stitching along three sides if desired. A bandana folded and peeking out of the pocket is a nice embellishment to add.

"Any man can be a Father, but it takes someone special to be a dad." – Anne Geddes

Happy Father's Day to all dads everywhere.

Sew happy, sew inspired.