When I was in Texas a couple of weeks ago I mentioned to my mom that I wished I had a sewing machine and that I would like to make a table cloth (because my table is too big to buy one for) among other things.
Friday I got an email from our front desk that I had a package. When I went down and got it, to my surprise, my mom had sent me something. I got upstairs, got it open, and there was my very own sewing machine! Yay! Not sure where I’m going to put it yet or how I’m going to finance yet another expensive hobby (Yarn costs me enough already!), but I’m excited about it. I have the basics of sewing down – I used to make myself pj pants and matching pillows in high school – now I just have to learn how to follow patterns and things. I would love to make a few people some aprons for Christmas!
Now I just need to get good scissors, stock up on thread & bobbins, and figure out where to buy fabric (other than the garment district because that is the surest way to go broke immediately).
Predictably Unoriginal 
yay! You’ll love it. Purl also sells fabric! I order mine from there all the time.
Have fun!
P&S fabrics in Chinatown is pretty good for not so expensive fabrics, notions and stuff. They also give a discount for paying in cash. Not open Saturdays though!
Two words… Amy Butler. One of the most amazing textile designers I have found. I love all of her prints and they make such cute bags, pillows etc. I have a sewing machine but am trying to get up the courage to try to make my own quilt for our guest bedroom. I read tons of sewing/design blogs if you need some ideas/inspiration. Good Luck!
yippie. sewing is a lot of fun. i got a machine a few years ago as a birthday present… its been downhill since.