I learned to sew as a teenager, but not through school. Mom signed me up for sewing classes at the local Joann's. She says it's the best money for lessons she's ever spent. I sewed alot of clothes for myself and some for my sister. When I got married, I sewed curtains, placemats, etc for myself and as gifts (money was tight as newlyweds). After a few years, I got into quilting and love it. I still make some clothes for my daughter, curtains and tops for myself, but not as often.