I never took a home ec class and all my quilting is self taught. I took one basic class when I first started and it was more on basic machine work than actual quilt work.
I've seen so many online patterns or have gone to craft shows and said "I wish I could make something like that". Craftybear posted another awesome link and I took one look at the tank top and swore I could make that! I'm buying the fabric this weekend and hoping to give making clothes for the first time a shot! I totally understand what you mean!
I haven't made any bags yet....don't really have the confidence yet.
I love what dorian's momma wrote...I do take pics of bathroom floors and think they could make great quiting motifs!!