I figure pj pants or boxer shorts using a woven cotton perfect for learning to handle a sewing machine and understand patterns and fit. I have do projects where members sew tote bags and puppets but I want them to be introduced to garment sewing.
BTW - this is why I also lead quilting projects. So they are introduced to the sewing machine.
You can't understand mending and repair if you don't understand how things are made. And have had great success having my members make pj pants from cotton or flannelette. They learn to read a pattern, lay out the pattern, all about fabric grain etc. They construct the garment by sewing the long mostly straight seams first then the curved crotch seam. They press and sew the casing for elastic - learning all about wearing ease in the process. Then they press and sew the hem. And they are usually delighted with their pants! And go onto sewing more for their family.