Make these carefree days even sunnier by creating fun-to-wear children's play-clothes out of colorful bandannas. The six projects here are easy for anyone with basic sewing skills.

Made mostly from standard 22-inch bandannas, the garments are approximately size 5.To alter the size, simply buy larger or smaller bandannas and adjust the measurements. Look for them at army-navy stores or outdoor markets. For vintage designs, try online auctions. Bandannas are classic American cowboy gear, but look closely: The designs vary from Indian paisleys to old-fashioned florals. Since most bandannas cost no more than two dollars, a whole summer wardrobe can be stitched up for a song. What could be cooler than that?

Beachcomber Apron How-To
You will need: one 22-inch yellow bandanna and 1 1/2 yards white rope trim.

1. Fold and position bandanna as shown. Measure 4 inches from tip of top corner; cut off corner for a pocket. Hem raw edges of pocket and neckline.

2. Topstitch pocket in place. To create casings for apron ties, fold over by 1 inch two edges adjacent to neckline; stitch in place. Use a safety pin to snake rope through casing from corner to corner, leaving extra at neck.