I used to teach children to sew and quilt. Most had no experience with sewing or running a machine. We started with making scrunchies until they could sew a straight seam. Then we made a pillowcase and a fat quarter apron. Then we learned how to cut and sub cut fabric into squares using a rotary cutter and mat. You would be amazed at the masterpieces those little girls (9 to 15 years of age) made. I think it was because we started small and built their confidence through success.