While we all know that there are more than enough fast and tacky sewing projects out there, finding fast and hip projects on the Web can be a major task of sifting through search engine results.

Here, I've gathered a few of my absolute favorite fast and fashionable projects available online, some free and some for a modest purchase. After all, if you're going to spend even a single precious afternoon sewing, you want the outcome to be fabulous and the envy of all your friends and family, right?

Both the ladies and gents will be itching to whip up these Lacey Tanga pretty ladies' undies and low-rise men's undies projects created by Sew Fast Sew Easy/Stitch and Bitch site. For just a few dollars, you get a materials list, a PDF pattern, and an online video that can be downloaded 10 times, rewound and replayed to your heart's content.

You'll find a host of free pattern projects on DIYStyle.net, including vodcasts like the NY Trench and Chic Foldover Clutch Purse. My personal favorite for easy chic is the Low-Sew, High-Style Halter.

I'm a sucker for vintage patterns, and I just couldn't resist this one-hour 1920s frock. You'll also find many other quick frocks, cloches and retro aprons available for sale for a song in this great vintage pattern site.

When I began sewing again, one of my first projects was a duvet. Nothing compared to the return on investment on this project -- armed with good taste and rudimentary sewing skills, you can quickly dress your bed to impress. Try this easy pattern, or maybe this one.

One of my all-time favorite fast-sew resources is a magazine I launched: Quick Stuff to Sew, Volume 1. It's crammed with 25 fast and fun DIY sewing projects, from super-quick dresses, skirts and handbags to flip-flops and PJs. While the magazine came out about a year ago, you can still order it and other volumes here.

This is just a taste of all the great projects that are out there. If you need to brush up on your sewing skills, read some recent columns on cutting out patterns and virtual sewing circles. Next week: Looking for vintage in all the right places to get your restyling on.

Amber Eden is the former editor-in-chief of Threads magazine and founding editor of SewStylish magazine and CraftStylish.com. She has studied draping and haute couture techniques at The Fashion Institute of Technology (FIT), and according to her, will probably be a student there for life.