My 1st sewing machine is on it's way! What do I need to know?

[u32ng]

So obviously I'm going to have to take the time to find my way around it, as I'm a beginner & have only ever hemmed square things .

What sort of beginner info should I be learning and what beginner projects should I begin with?

So excited! Been watching the great British sewing bee with much admiration & am determined to learn how to sew!

my mum brought over an old sewing machine and left it at my house (it must be love - she took it as hand luggage on an easyjet flight!) and I am tempted to have a go. I only want to be able to make cushion covers and things like that!

Main tips I have for actually using the machine - make sure you put the bobbin in the right way round and replace the needle regularly. When you start sewing hold the loose threads for the first few stitches.

Simple things to start with - cushion covers, aprons for the kids, tote bags, move onto making purses or make up bags with zips in. I'd tend to start with stuff like that where the end size doesn't really matter too much. Move on to making clothing that needs to fit later.

If you're interested in quilting then A Passion For Patchwork has a lot of smaller projects in (as well as larger quilts). It has things like pot holders, cushions, small wall hangings, table runners, bags, purses.