1- Cut carefully and sew consistent seams. If you cut a piece too small, re-cut it; do NOT try to make up the difference, by taking a less than 1/4" seam!
1- Take your time and don't try to sew, if you're too nervous or tired, to pay attention to what you're doing.
1- Keep fingers away from that moving needle!
1- Discover the wonders of basting and binding, with Elmer's School Glue.
They're all just 'one' thing.