What advice would you give a beginner learning to sew?

I asked this question on a couple of the boutique boards. This is what some of you had to say.

Trace your patterns on wax paper in the sizes you need instead of cutting up your patterns. This way the pattern stays in one piece yet you have it in all different sizes when you need it! - Talia*Couture

Be patient with yourself, remember that you did not learn to ride a bike in one day and sewing is much like that. Take your time and do not rush, pay attention to details. Because you can have cute things, but if it is not well constructed, you will not have repeat customers. - BoutiqueSheSheBaby

I would tell her/him that when it somes to the sewing...measure twice, cut once. I can't count the number of times I've had to toss pieces because I cut them backwards or inside out or upside down or....... So teach yourself to take the time to make sure of what you're doing before putting the scissors to it. - 1herosmom

Dont' be afraid to throw away the instructions. Who says you have to follow all of the hard and tried rules that grandma, and mamma taught you. Think outside the box, we all have unique ideas....try them out. If it doesn't work, you will still have learned something. - Kris*s*wonders

When ruffling 2 layers together using a ruffler foot, I've learned to serge the top edge of the 2 layers together- it gives something for the "teeth" to catch and makes for a nice, even ruffle.
Always be sure to wash questionable fabric- it really stinks to have colors run on an outfit you've worked so hard on.
When I applique on a knit fabric, I find that plain computer paper makes a great stabilizer. I just pin it to the underside of the fabric around the applique and it tears away easily when you're all finished.
I also like to make detailed notes when I make an outfit for Madeline- especially how much fabric I used for each component. That way it's easy to see if I have enough to make another outfit, or if I need to buy more fabric - Madelines*Minky

PRESS AS YOU GO!!! You need to press your fabric as you go along. You'll have permanents wrinkles or lines in the finished outfit if you don't remove them in the construction stage.
One of biggest pet peeves in custom outfits....Is a listing that looks wrinkled or messy in the pictures. Who would want to buy it???? - Hot.Tots.Cool.Kids2