Having the right tools to help you is important. Basic tools you need: at least a 12" X 24" cutting mat, a 45mm rotary cutter, a 6" X 24" rotary ruler w/ light markings so you can see using both dark and light fabrics and has 30, 45 and 60 degree lines on it, a seam ripper, an iron. ironing surface (preferably a hard surface- not a squishy puffy ironing board cover), sewing machine w/ either an accurate 1/4" foot or a moveable needle so you can set it in the right spot to get an accurate or scant 1/4" seam allowance, starch, washable school glue with a tiny tip and good light over your work surface and sewing machine. I have several Ott-Lite lamps and they make all the difference and let me sew at night and see what I'm doing easily.