I used to watch my mom sew, by the time I was 5, I started making my own doll clothes. I just picked it up and used the needle and thread by copying the same motions Mother made. She had an electric machine but I had to use the treadle with no backstitching capabilities if I wanted to use a machine. I figured that out quickly by turning the fabric around. Don't ask me how I knew - I just did. By the time I was in 4th grade, I was in 4-H and winning blue ribbons in the local fairs in Southern California. It's been a great friend for me, helping me thru hard times with sewing for professional women and dancers when I was a single mom. I love to walk into high-end stores to see how they made really lovely clothes. My daughter had the prettiest prom dresses that cost less than $20, & a beautiful wedding gown that mimicked the coutier gowns from the bridal shop. Thank you Mother, thank you 4-H and most thanks to the sewing fairy who tapped me on the head when I was little. :)