Get a basic model sewing machine, $100-125...here is a basic from Mal-Wart $80
http://www.walmart.com/ip/Brother-2600I-Free-Sewing-Machine/4764723Follow directions for loading thread...it is all pictures...start sewing.
When you start or stop reverse an inch or so to lock the thread lines.
And invest in a decent pair of scissors, a seam ripper, and if you want to take the plunge a pair of pinking shears



A decent pair of scissors...mid range when you go to store...cheap scissors stay sharp until you take them out of the package.
Seam rippers are a few bucks...take a sewn seam and hold it tight, place point in between and slowing run along seam, it is easy to use and once you use it you will find you can not do without one.
Pinking shears cut a pinking edge or a partial saw tooth which prevents fraying, unraveling, or other wise unusual cloth from doing what it wants to do.
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Grab some remnants of cloth for a couple bucks, a cheap pillow for a couple bucks, and make some decorative pillows.
Cut a shape, say a square, with an extra 4-5" more than you want the pillow to end up (this allows for filling and width), so you want an 18" pillow then cut the squares (x2) 20-22" depending on how thick you want it to be, place outside facing sides together, sew along one edge (leave needle down so you can turn it without loosing your position), sew next edge (same needle trick), sew third edge (same needle trick), then sew half way along fourth edge, stop and cut threads, put hand in hole, grab far edge, pull through, now it is right side out, stuff with pillow fluff, fold cut edge of fourth remaining half, start sewing one inch before thread cut, sew it closed, reverse at end back one inch to seal the threads.
Once you make a successful pillow your confidence will be boundless.
Enjoy.
That is the break down from the basic sewing pillow project I teach...$25 + materials
