getting beyond the basics with sewing and have lots of questions (mostly about clothing)

[doulawoman]

I am just getting beyond the basics with sewing and I have some questions and no one I know to ask.

-what would I need to sew some simple underwear for myself? Would I need cotton jersey knit, elastic, a ball point needle, a walking foot?

-does anyone know of a very simple tunic pattern for toddelers? I'd like to make 4 or 5 cotton tunics, possibly a bit longer for my 1 yo to run around in, sun here is very hot and bright.

-is anyone experienced with drafting their own patterns for clothing? tips/resources?

-has anyone tried the sew liberated patterns? are they easy enough for someone who only used patterns in home ec?

[Think of Winter]

Underwear:  I suggest getting a pattern.  Or find an online tutorial.  They'll tell you what you need.  I doubt you'd need a walking foot, but a bp needle is necessary for knits.

Simple tunic:  Pillowcase dresses are really easy, and good wardrobe builders.  My dd wears hers year round with varying layers, and they'll fit for a while, first as a dress, later as a top.  There are tutorials online.

Pattern drafting:  Is there a reason you don't want to use a ready made pattern and alter it to fit you?  I think you'd benefit by starting with a good, simple pattern, then move on to making your own after you've had a bit of experience.  I really liked the book Sew U.  I got it from the library, then bought my own copy.  It's got a few patterns and how-to.  The major pattern makers regularly have sales when patterns are $1-2.  I never pay full price for a pattern.  I always trace my patterns, so I never have to cut a pattern.  They're easy to adjust that way, and you can use your patterns over and over.  You can even sew up the garment in tracing paper and try it on.  I use Swedish Tracing Paper, but most fabric stores will carry some type.