So I'm getting this, now what?

[sunnylady303]

I am getting (a little bird told me) this machine for Christmas.

I know nothing about sewing. Literally nothing. I just learned to knit and am loving it. I have visions of homemade dresses and skirts and pants and patchwork rugs and quilts and bags and so many things. Am I crazy? Where do I start? How do I learn how to use the machine? I need someone to say - start with this, do this first, etc.

Is it crazy to think I'll get to making all that eventually when I am so utterly unprepared and know nothing?

[Ellien C]

Buy a small amount (1 yard) of 3 different kinds of nice fabric and start with some pillows. Cut 2 squares or rectangles, the same size and sew around almost all 4 sides. Leave an opening big enough for you hand and stuff with stuffing. Then hand-stitch closed. If you don't need or want pillows, how about some re-useable fabric gift bags? Same concept, but just sew 3 sides and sew on some grosgrain ribbon to about 2" from the top to tie it closed.

You can also ask your sewing friends for some scraps of fabric to practice with. Your machine will come with a book to show you how to thread it and get started.

[E.V. Lowi]

I think the best way to start is to sew lined notebook paper. follow the lines for a few sheets until you feel comfortable, then sew some fabric. I love the pillows and tote bags for first real projects. Also "A" line or dirndl skirts are very easy. Once you get the straight line sewing down, then curved projects- cut circle or heart shapes for pillows, or simple animal shapes. Good luck!