Welcome to Gaia! ::

Always read all the instructions all the way through.

I just started making a doll, and I kindof flicked through the instructions and just kinda thaught, yea, I can do that.
http://www.newon.org/doku/hobby/scd/
gaaaaaaaaaaahhhh
Dont get me wrong, I CAN do all that
I just dont WANT to do all that
It's just more work than I expected
*will go insane if she ever sees another dart again*

Don't worry, fingers grow back! biggrin

biggrin

I won't list any machine specific things, since i don't use home machines and theres too many special processes that they all do.
The best thing for you to do, as a beginner, would be to get a simple plain woven cotton fabric (or wool, don't use polyester/nylon/etc. Natural Fibers are tons easier to work with) and look up online or pick up a book of sewing samples.

Once you know how to use your sewing machine i.e. thread it, wind the bobbin, adjust tension and stitch length, begin by sewing a simple straight line. Don't try to adjust the line direction, the machine should sew straight. Just guide it by holding the fabric piece lightly and let it slide forward.
Then go on to other samples such as:
circular sewing
sewing repetitive lines equal spaces from each other
sewing different hem types (look em up on internet or a book)
sewing dart samples, crimping, gathering etc.

The best way to get better at sewing is...practice sewing.
If you need any references for books or info let me know. ^_^