I taught myself to sew when I was pregnant with my first (34 years ago). I wanted to make a quilt for him and I have been sewing ever since. I have taught my 11 year old daughter to sew. She started when she was 6 and has since made 8 quilts. I did take 1 year of home ec in high school but didn't learn how to sew! I guess I just had to want it bad enough! I even made my daughters clothes when she was little--including all the frilly, puffy little dresses! Now, I mostly just quilt, quilt, and quilt some more. I am purchasing an embroidery machine next month (when I will finally have enough saved for the model I want!) Then I will probably do some t shits and sweatshirts.