I finally found a fabric store that gives lessons in garment making and I've signed up for several classes: pattern making, draping, working with knits, etc. I found this wonderful knit a while back, perfect for a skirt, adapted a commercial pattern (adding pockets and changing the width of the bias panels) and actually finished a garment I will wear often! I've already worn it twice in fact and it's so comfortable and stretchy. You can't see it but it's a nubby red and black--really a great fabric.
Don't worry though, I still have about 7 quilting projects in progress as we speak as you can see from the other posts I've made on Judy Laquidara's wonderful site. Hope you're all having a great sewing week!