Absolutely agree with Madame Kelly about Eleanor Burns' methods. Our library has some of her books. Her method will get you started and then you can branch out into other ways.
Also, If you get distracted while sewing, be sure your finger isn't in the way of the sewing machine needle. The machine wins that every time!
Enjoy your new talents and you've had a lot of good advice here. Welcome!
Edited to add: A lot has been said about that 1/4' or scant 1/4" seam. The easiest way I've found is to sew on an index card. The lines are 1/4" apart! You'll figure out how much to adjust from that. No wasted fabric, either!
Last edited by coopah; 03-29-2018 at 04:19 AM.