Nicki over at Domestic Cents is hosting a series on the "Almost Lost Domestic Arts." This Wednesday she is discussing sewing. Head on over there and check it out. I got my first sewing machine for Christmas 5 years ago. I had grown up knowing some basic sewing skills. My mom is a sewer, though she says she isn't a sewer she is a "quilter." (I am hating the spelling of the word "sewer" now as I write it...) I wouldn't really consider myself a sewer either. I try. I make lots of things but I'm no expert. I mostly make clothes for my girls and other useful things (not that quilts aren't useful...). I should say I mostly make skirts, pants and dresses for my girls. I've only made one shirt and never made a jacket but I'd like to someday, like many other things. SOMEDAY! It's not like having a two month old, a two year old and a three year old keep me busy... For now I just look at my ever growing list of things I wish to make.
If you are a total beginner, or even if you know enough to make a few things, I would totally recommend the Sew Everything Workshop book to you. It covers everything from how to select a sewing machine to fit your needs to explaining different types of fabrics to teaching you how to actually sew and use patterns. It also includes bunch of great patterns. If you don't have a sewing machine yet, get the book first! I'd also recommend buying your machine at a sewing machine store because they'll show you how to use it!
I know patterns scare a lot of people but once you figure out some of the basics they aren't that scary. I have made a few things with patterns but I tend to gravitate toward a more "tutorial" style of sewing. You know, give me the dimensions and the directions. Don't make me pin a pattern onto fabric. Unfortunately, this does limit what you can make. Learning to use patterns is very useful. Another very useful skill is learning to craft your own patterns. Sew What! Skirts is a great book about how to make your own patterns to fit you perfectly. I highly recommend picking this book up if you want to make skirts for any age or size. Skip the store bought patterns and learn to make them exactly to fit you. 
You can also check out my easy skirt tutorials here, here, here and here. I intend to create a tutorial for this one soon as well.
There are tons of popular sewing books out there. I have a few of them. If you are interested in sewing knit fabrics check out Sew U Homestretch.
Here are some posts and tutorials that have inspired me;
Altering kid's clothes to make them more fun
An easy little library tote tutorial
Want to make your own diapers? I have this pattern. There are tons of free patterns available though. I've never tried them but you can look here or here.
Do you like to sew? What types of things do you sew? Any books or tips you'd like to recommend?
