I am self taught. Other than Home Ec in high school I have relied on books to get me through.
I didn't even have the benefit of classes when I bought my embroidery/sewing machine or serger. I know my way around my embroidery machine but need to spend more time learning my serger.
I did just recently take a purse making class. All of us made a purse in one day! I hope to take more classes but they do add up, and I like to spend my money on fabric and supplies.