I learned how to sew *after* I finished my first kilt. It was all stumbling in the dark until I saw how it all fit together, and what I'd actually done.


http://users.tinyonline.co.uk/chegc/kiltsite/page2.htm

I followed these instructions which - while good - aren't the most novice-friendly. Intimidating, they are.

Trust me, it'll all make much more sense when you look back on it. Your second kilt will be much less daunting, and you can aim for more professionalism, etc. You can, with time, forget the instructions and tinker to make things hang better and so forth. You're only limited by your ingenuity.

As for using the sewing machine itself, I found that slowly turning the knob whilst watching the insides go was very illuminating. It's really impressive to figure out just how the bugger works, and to learn that there really isn't any old sailor in there tying a bunch of knots. I don't recommend this method, though, because it doesn't actually help you sew any better, and... everybody thinks you're crazy.

Just don't be afraid to rip a lot of stitches. A LOT of stitches. It's all part of the fun.

I don't know any of the terms either, and I sew everyday at work. Who cares?