You would be better off buying fabric, washing it a few times, then making your item. That is the conclusion I have come to with my clothes. They make everything so cheaply made now days!
Depending on where you live in CA: I stopped into a shop called My Sewing Room, in Corona, CA the other day. She had a sewing class going on, and everyone was working on their own projects, and she would help whenever someone needed instruction. If you don't live near there, look for a class in your area.