Do I pin the pattern to the fabric to cut out the pieces?
**you can pin the pattern; just be careful so you dont tear the tissue paper
If so, after I've got the pieces cut out, do I leave the pattern pinned to it?
**I generally leave the pieces & the pattern pieces pinned together until I start sewing the pieces together. I remove the pattern pieces & re-fold them.
If yes, do I sew the pieces together with the fabric paper still attached?
**take the pattern pieces off.
What if I want to reuse the pattern? Do I need to make a copy on tracing paper first?
**if you are not sure what size to use, trace off the pattern onto tissue paper or freezer paper first. That way you can re-size as needed.
You can also check your local library to see if they have "Sewing for Dummies". This is a really good series for those of us who have no clue how to do something.