I basically am self taught. I watch the videos. I took a class upon DH advice and I was miserable. The teacher was very condescending. Money for the class was non-refundable. She didn't like the idea that I looked at YouTube videos and paid for some classes on Craftsy.com. I learned more from the videos on You Tube and did spend a couple hours with a friend who helped me immensely. My friend had been sewing since she was 6. She made a lot of clothes and her own wedding dress. Did not know until a couple years ago that she also taught Home ec. and worked in a clothing factory making pants. The ones that used to advertise for $9.95. I thought I had a good teacher. She never was berating.