When I were a Lad, during last years of't War, in the dark neets when we couldn't go out to play, my Mum helped keep us kids occupied. Mum was a seamstress and an all round homemaker, as most were all those years ago. She taught my Sister and me to use a sewing machine, knit, crochet, darn and embroider. We also made rag rugs from scrap material. I enjoyed the experience and the skills have helped me out on many occasions. I have my own Jones sewing machine even now, although it is only rarely used to shorten legs on trousers or other small jobs.
As a final note, I have, in the past, even made a dress for the (1st) wife!