A couple yrs ago I taught 9 girl scouts to sew a tote. I had everything all ready cut out and handle made (we were under a time crunch). Before each girl sewed I had them practice sewing with the machine on a paper towel. Paper towel you say ... I forgot to bring scrap fabric. I stood right beside each one and told her what to do. Worked out perfect and each one was super proud of themselves. It will be fun, go for it.