Mom taught me the basics of sewing when I was probably about 10 yrs. In school I elected NOT to take the "home ec" class because it was mostly cooking and I already knew how to do that since 9 yrs of age and cooking for 6 daily. I taught myself to sew by making the boys' halloween costumes and then on to quillows. From there....no stopping until work and life got in the way. But back to quilting now. :D Self taught as far as the quilting goes...the basics of the machine I can thank my wonderful Mom :D