It's a shame that Home Ec/Sewing is not taught in schools anymore. It learned to cook and do woodworking in 6th grade and to sew and weld metal in 7th grade. All have come in handy in the intervening 30 years.

My 13-year old niece sews her own clothes and makes quilts. She just visited the VCU Fashion Design program because she's thinking about that for college.

There's alot of good advice here. I have a 1954 Singer that my Grandmother bought for me and had reconditioned. It does not do any fancy stitches, but so far I have not needed them. I really enjoy sewing, and in the past have made dresses and skirts, along with pillowcases and simpler items.

I second finding a class. Many sewing stores offer them. You will pick up so many tips from experienced sewers (that doesn't look right) that you cannot find in a book.

Best of luck and show us some pieces when you finish!

Oh, and patience is key. Never rush. It's very Zen.