Dust off the sewing machine. Heather Ross wants to get America sewing again.

Ross is a lifelong sewing enthusiast who designs fabric, fashion projects, sewing patterns and stationery goods. Her new book, “Weekend Sewing” (Stewart, Tabori & Chang, $27.50), is intended to inspire people to carve out time for sewing as a creative outlet, as she does.

She filled the book with instructions and patterns for clothing, accessories and home items that can be completed in a few days. They’re also things that fit the relaxed feel of a weekend, such as pajama pants.

Natural bug spray: Terminix has introduced a natural pest-control spray called SafeShield made primarily from plant extracts. The spray is designed to target common household pests, including ants, roaches, flies and spiders.

When applied as directed, the product is safe for areas used by children and pets, the manufacturer says. It won’t stain countertops or upholstery and doesn’t have the chemical smell of typical insecticides.

Its active ingredients include thyme oil and geraniol, an alcohol derived from geraniums.

Order Terminix SafeShield at http://

www.safeshield.com

for $9.99 plus shipping, handling.