I learned to embroider, sew at my grandmother's side.. she was so patient with me, until she became ill. Then I took a class in Home EC and the teacher said my skirt wasn't good enough for the fashion show. My mom picked out the material and I made it; a very simple A line skirt-flowery with gold thread running through it. I can remember this to this day the teacher's words and how hurtful ( I should of made a flounce skirt like the other girls and gold thread-what am I a hoity toity person? NO It was something my mother picked out and I wanted to be different than the other girls, in sewing what I thought was nice). So I read all I could and am pretty much self taught on quilting, crocheting (with help from DH's wonderful Grandmother who showed me many things in crocheting). BEST tip I ever received-well actually 2 tips- Take your time, and be sure you have your sewing pattern in the right positions on your material -both from my grandmother (bless her soul!). I read alot of books and internet sites to keep up on the latest trends (for the GD's sake and making their clothes!LOL).
I swore when I taught my kids or grandkids I would never be as mean as that teacher and when it comes to the GD's I am very patient and very helpful.