First and foremost, quit calling it a sewing machine. It is a powered thread-injector. Gotta start with the right state of mind before you can move forward.
Seriously, learn how to use it. You don't have to be good, only functional. I've got some truly butt-ugly gear that I have made. But you know what? It works. The first topquilt I ever made could be used in one of the haunted houses out there right now, but it does keep me nice and toasty. I won't even discuss my first attempt at a tarp.
It isn't difficult and you'll be surprised how quickly your basic skills develop. I still don't sew straight lines, but I think it's more about the rebellious youth I haven't managed to shake completely, than about skills. Make a dozen stuff sacks, make a synthetic quilt, move to a tarp, then tackle a baffled quilt. I think that
Thru-Hiker's kits are a great place to learn. You get everything you need in the kits and the projects can be very simple (stuff sacks) on up to clothing (not so simple). As an added benefit, the women in your family will be plain tickled with you. My grandma still asks how my sewing is doing when I talk to her. I think it took her about 5 minutes to catch her breath when I called her a few years ago and asked "How do I end a stitch?". I swear, it's the only time I've ever heard that very 'proper' lady snort while laughing.
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