Where can we learn sewing?

How can I learn about Fashion Drawing and Sewing?

• For starters, I'm 17 and a Senior in High School. All this time, I was bored and didn't know what I wanted to do with my life. And now, I just realized that I have a Talent in the Modeling & Fashion Industry. When I was 13, I had to take care of my mother and younger sister while the rest of my family were at work or school. Now that I'm 17, everyone is doing good. No more taking care of anyone. I wanna get my name out their and become Famous. But, I feel like I wasted those 4 years of my life because, I didn't take time out for myself. I don't know how to Draw or Sew. But yet I have all these Ideas and Images of Fashion and Accessories in my head. Where can I learn to Draw Fashion? I don't know how to draw. Is this a Good Book?http://www.amazon.com/Fashion-Artist-Design-Sandra-Burke/dp/0958239177/ref=pd_bbs_sr_1/102-0656746-3000131?ie=UTF8&s=books&qid=1183756610&sr=8-1 What is a Good Beginner Sewing Machine? Is it to late to persue a career in something I love.

• Answer:

  It's never too late to pursue a career in something you love - especially because you're only 17 and can position yourself in places where your talents can be recognized. Most universities have fashion programs, with illustration as a part of the curriculum. But before even looking that far ahead, go get yourself a sketch book (border or barnes and noble sell them for as cheap as $3) and just start drawing. The more you practice, the better you'll be. You don't need to copy the styles of other designers. That's part of being a unique designers - - having a unique style. As for a beginner sewing machine, you can't go wrong with a Kenmore (from sears). Go for the basic machine that does 13 or so stitches (I think they're about $150), but make sure that the mechanisms inside are steel. I like to call Kenmores the "work horse" of sewing machines, because they're no-frills but get the job done. And once you've gotten your machine, worked out some of your own illustrations and started your own work, then take a look at where the fashion hot spots are (I live in LA - fashion heaven!) and see if you can get into a school that will help you to hone your skills. Trust me - most of the people applying for fashion programs have little more experience than you have - so you're definitely not "behind" by any means! Good luck!!!