OK so I haven't sewn anything since a home economics lesson in the 80s. I was always good on the theory and the choosing of fabrics but don't recall doing much other on a sewing machine other than sewing a depressingly thin, orange pillow case. I don't own a sewing machine or needles or anything like that but I have this over-riding desire to make my little girl a dress or a skirt. How hard can it be? When I think of making my own clothes I am slightly prejudiced by a friend of my mothers from the 70s who "makes her own clothes you know" - trouble is it always showed (and not in a good way!)
But how do I go about learning now at the ripe old age of xx? I think I might faint if I see an old Simpicity pattern - is there a book that doesn't smell of home economics teachers with glass eyes (she used to take it out and polish it in lessons) and general polyester mustiness. A simple book that is genuinely for beginners but that has up to date styles for kids? And tips about what kind of sewing machines you need etc.??