[jessica3]

I'm learning how to sew. I want to make a cute dress for my 6 yr old daughter.. but I want be able to so it quickly and no confusing turns and other fancy moves. I just want to put the fabric to the sewing machine and sew it... any ideas for a beginner?

[hheath541]

Get a pattern from walmart, or somewhere similar. They sell quick and easy patterns that are perfect for beginners. The pattern directions will explain exactly what you need to do, and all the symbols used.

[dontknownuthin]

The pattern companies all make easy patterns and mark them pretty clearly. They might be called "kwik sew" or something like that.

Some things to consider to keep your project easy:

Slippery fabrics are harder to sew with so for beginner projects don't use really thin, filmy or slippery material. It also snags so if you have to redo part, removing mistake stitches can ruin it. Use cotton, a cotton or wool blend, etc. to make it easy on yourself.

Plaids, patterns and stripes have to be laid out in such a way that they match up properly so can be harder to get right. Solids or small prints that don't have to be matched up can also be easier for a beginner. If you want to use a fabric that requires matching you can always lay out your fabric and pin the patterns on, then roll the whole thing up and bring it to your fabric store and ask them if you did it right before you cut. They can help you adjust it. They want you to sew and like it so you become a regular customer, so feel free to ask for the advice.

Fewer pieces also usually mean easier sewing. You can tell from the pattern how many pieces you will have. Some details are sometimes optional and you can skip some details (like pockets for example) to make a pattern easier.

Some details are not very hard but add a lot to the look of the garment. For example, pleats and gathers are pretty easy once someone shows you how to do it, so if you want to do something cute consider that type of details. Button holes and zippers can be tricky the first few times, so you might want to use something like snaps or a style that doesn't require fasteners.

Simple jumpers are the easiest dresses to make for little girls.

Also look for patterns that are made for beginners. The sewing stores can direct you to the easiest patterns. If there's anything you don't know how to do, ask someone. Sewers tend to like to help each other, I've found!