How to learn to sew ... real beginner ...

[merpk]

My mother is maybe going to give me her sewing machine. She bought it about five years ago, fancy, computerized stuff, and she used it rarely (made me baby stuff, etc.) but doesn't use it anymore, so ...

So I'm excited.

So any recommendations? Books, videos? Don't have the time or money to take a class, so have to do it on my own.

Any advice well appreciated ...

[Kari_mom]

I'm excited for you!! I sewing!

My first advice would be to convince your mom to show you how to use the sewing machine. If it does have some bells and whistles, being shown the basics will make things easier for you. Then you can ignore what you don't need for now.

Start with simple projects. This is a good resource:Home Sewing and this is another good one: Sewing . Need some throw pillows for your couch? Perfect! Once you understand how to use your machine, I would move on to projects that require a pattern.

I understand that the Readers Digest Complete Book of Sewing is a good reference.

Do you have a friend who sews? Having a sewing buddy helps alot, some things just make more sense when you see it live. And don't forget to ask your questions here too!

Good luck!

[obeyacts2]

I would recommend the patterns put out that say "the two hour dress" or soemthing like that. The big pattern companies usually have them in their pattern books. They usually dont take much skill and provide some instant gratification. One thing that is important is to learn to measure yourself properly. Pattern book sizes are different than ready to wear. I take 3 size larger in a skirt from a patt than in ready to wear, and 1 size smaller in a blouse (Im a pear) so be forewarned.

laura