I learned waaaay back in the days when they taught this to girls in school. But I bought a new sewing machine a couple years ago and it came with several lessons at my local Joann's. I really enjoyed the class. If I had a choice between Joann's and the sewing guild, I would probably choose the guild, or at least drop by there first to get a feel for the group. Many home decor items are easier to sew than clothing.

I second graywings' advice. Check out your local fabric stores for lessons and check on Craigslist to see if anyone offers beginners sewing classes near you. Most of what you want to do is extremely simple and could be learned in a couple of lessons at most.

Actually, you could probably learn to sew simple things by yourself if you pick up a "Sewing for Dummies" book and a very simple sewing machine. Start out with small things like pot holders and couch pillows. They are all straight line sewing, which is very simple.

As long as you follow the instructions for threading the machine and loading bobbins carefully, you could do the projects you mentioned very easily. Sewing is not really that complicated: pre-wash your fabrics, measure twice and cut once, being sure to include the proper seam allowances and hems and go slow while sewing to keep everything lined up properly.

Good luck! :)

Good for you!! I have sewn since I was a kid, husband's suits, kids clothes, home dec --- not that I have done much in the last several years.
Anyway, I learned from a variety of venues. I took several tailoring classes at my local high school that was offering adult education classes. I had a fabulous teacher and learned a lot.
I would look into the sewing guild as well as JoAnn's. I would agree with Graywings that I would check the guild first. What I believe is that any one with a skill like sewing, knitting, etc. is so very willing to share it with someone who is very eager to learn. Sewing home dec is not all that hard - mostly straight lines. The hardest part is the measuring, cutting and working with large pieces of fabric. Check out JoAnn's as well. Interview the instructors.
The other great source is the internet. I have been learning to knit and crochet and although I take some classes, the internet has invaluable instruction. Google "How to sew a button" and I would bet you would come up with a lot of info - probably Youtube videos. Sometimes when trying to learn a new stitch, I sit in front of my computer watching videos until I get it.
I have made draperies and roman shades with patterns and instructions from the internet.
As I said, people are very willing to share their knowledge with a willing learner.
I for one would be glad to help you.
Good luck!!!

Sewing machines come with instructions, but if I'd never sewn anything before I think a class would help get you started. :0) I agree with graywings....things for the home are easier to sew than clothing.

I took a pattern making class long ago. It was fun! Take a class!!!! :0)

I taught myself to sew (making clothes for my Barbie dolls) back in the 60s. My parents realized I liked it and had a talent so bought me a Bernina which came with a few lessons. I did good in Home Economics and remember getting an "A" on my first project using a pattern (an apron). Anyway that is the history and I have made everything from lined, pleated drapes, to dresses of my own design.

I suggest taking the classes and start with something simple like a throw pillow. You will make mistakes along the way (buy a ripper) and use simple patterns till you get more comfortable. Check out videos on sewing too, there are plenty out there. Be patient and vigilant...it is a very satisfying craft. YOU CAN DO IT!!! Have fun.

Here is a link that might be useful: How to Sew DVDs

Nik

I totally agree w/others. I too, learned to sew in Jr High Home Ec class. About 3 yrs ago when I was totally disheartened to see the cost of window treatments I decided it was time to hone some new skills.
After much research I purchased a new Janome machine from a local retailer who offered as many instructional sessions as I would like.
Since then I have been successful with some home dec projects - Roman shades, decorative pillows, skirt for sink, purchasing drapes that needed to be taken up, blankets for lil ones, bibs, some pot holders, skirt for my dd etc. Each time I sit at the machine I learn more. I have purchased some great sewing books, and have taken many a books out from local library - they have even purchased new books at my request.
Very satisfying.... go for it. I would rec a local place (for purchase) that would be there for you

best to you

You are not alone. I know lots of people that have never sewed, but would love to learn. It is a great feeling to complete something, it actually turn out how you envisioned and say "I made that". The classes you are considering will teach you the basics and after that with practice you will self teach yourself. Beleive me, the projects you take on at first probably won't be grand, but they'll help you build the confidence to tackle that bigger project. Sewing takes patience and time.

I am fortunate to have had a grandmother that taught me at a very young age how to sew. She bought me my first machine when I was 19 ... oh, I was so excited. I won't begin to tell you the hours I've spent sitting with my ripper. I am by no means an expert but I have made some pretty things that people assumed were bought.

As adults we have more will to learn a new skill than when we were young. If this is something that interests you, I say enroll in the classes. You won't regret it.

I am a sewer when I have to be.....meaning I sew, not my favorite hobby but can do it if push comes to shove which it has alot along the years. Then I really get hooked on it & sew away. When my little girl was a toddler all the way thru 7 yrs. I made her an outfit, bought her an outfit. Made matching bows & hair scrunchies also. She was the best dressed kindergarten student in the class. ha!
After buying an old house , we fixed everyroom up and I sewed my way around the house with swags,other WT's, pillows, table runners, napkins, etc. After selling & building, I have made a couple of WT.....DD's bathroom one & craftroom , small pillow for guestroom bed , but hired the Wt's I wanted out to a very professional lady who does a no less than perfect job. I even took for my DR an off the shelf WT & made it alittle more custom looking by scrunching the top to make it look soft & floppy then hanging on short rods. I want to update my daughter's bathroom with plain white tab tops, cutting off the tabs & replaceing with lime green ribbon hanging down & sewed. I have an inspiration photo. YOu could even use the fusing web for that projects if need be. Good luck with learning...I took some shadow embroidery lessons at one of the sewing places here. Even JR. college probably offer things like that maybe. I had to take classes in JR high & high school.......it was one of those things I thought I would never use but have! Bonnie

Thanks so much for the advice and kind words of encouragement. I looked into a local shop that charges $90 for 3 sessions of basic lessons. However, the classes focus on garments. Joann's offers a 2 hr. Intro to Sewing class. They also have a Sewing Home Decor class and even an upholstery class that I'm very interested in. I'm planning to get started soon. I have 2 young boys and really have no interest in making their clothes. If I had girls I would probably feel differently :)

I went to high school in the 80's and home ec. was offered, but I chose to take a cooking class instead. I had no interest in homekeeping at the time. Oh how times change!

Thanks again for the advice. I will keep y'all posted on my progress (the good, bad, & the ugly).

If you think this is something you will continue to do, my advice would be to get a good sewing machine. A good used one is better than an not as good quality new one and often can cost about the same. I really believe it is like any other hobby - good tools make a world of difference.

I bought a sewing machine recently. It's not an expensive one, it's a Brother, but it seems to have the basics and a few extra things. I thought I could make my own pillows, drapery panels, etc. Right now, it is still sitting in the box while I eye it with trepidation. LOL. I think I need to take a few lessons too. I did buy the sewing for dummies book. I keep telling myself that I am a very smart person and I can do this :-) I know that you can too.

Carol

I second the good used machine. Mine was a wedding present, many long years ago, and it was a model made for schools. My repair guy told me to hang on to it, as it's all metal, unlike the fancy ones sold today. You don't need to monogram before you can sew a straight seam.

Sewing is all about spatial relationships, which is something women aren't encouraged to develop much anymore (which is why cutting Home Ec in schools was dumb.) You're taking something flat and turning it into cylinders, squares, boxes, etc.

See if you can find a retired teacher or home-sewing expert to teach you, if the group classes aren't easily accessible.

Also, a lot of us on the forum are happy to answer questions, if we can. It's easier with a teacher (my mom taught me) but I bet you can do it. Patterns are usually very easy to follow, once you learn the terms.

Play with your machine to learn it without actually making anything.

Good luck! And have fun! (Next thing you know, you'll want to make jammies for your boys!)

Sherry

I looked into the classes here and a local shop offers a lot of beginners classes for $30 each (2 hr. sessions). They also have several home decor and window treatment classes. Also, there is a class called "Sew What" that allows you to bring in your own project and get help from an instructor. The women teaching the classes all have 30+ years experience. I think I will check that place out.

Even though they do have machines to borrow at the shop, I will probably keep my eye out on CL for a good used machine. I have to first figure out what is considered a good model! Off to read reviews...

Oh and Sherry, I never thought about making their jammies. That is a great idea!!

Nikkia -
If ALL you ever learn is how to measure, cut, and sew a straight seam, that's enough to make 80% of the stuff you decorate with.

Get a sturdy used machine that does just straight and zig-zag stitches and you can do it! Old Singers, Pfaff and Vikings are all good.

Don't get the electronic ones with all the fancy stitches unless you are planning a career making embroidered bibs and stuff.