I don't remember 'learning to sew'. From a very young age I created clothes for my dolls and made toys by cutting up old clothes and handstitching them. My favourite memory by far is the stable full of sock horses, my mum went mad when she realised that I had used dads socks to make about a dozen of them. I realised that not many people could do it and started selling items I had sewn, crocheted or knit to other kids for pocket money.
I first used a machine when I went to senior school and had to make an apron for cookery class.
All through college I made clothes just using a dressmakers dummy and creating my own look. I didn't use a pattern until I made my wedding dress.
I sewed all through my 20's for my kids and others and then suddenly stopped. I don't know why.
My son's fiancee, lamenting the price of wedding dresses had re-ignited my passion and I am happily creating wardrobes for us all again. thank you Threads for helping me re-learn this essential skill and by the way I agree that it should be compulsory for schools to teach needlework.

What a fantastic use of a jumper. I often find that I like the colours & fabrics of jumpers, but cardigans can look so frumpy when you get to a certain age. What did you use to bind the cut edges?