Most early sewing frustrations come down to a few basics. Start with how to thread a sewing machine, including SINGER's quick check that tells you if it's threaded right. If stitches loop or pucker, work through sewing machine tension in order. For hand repairs, how to sew a button follows University of Florida Extension's method. Each step is cited to the machine maker or Extension guide it comes from.
How-tos and explainers
How-To
How to thread a sewing machine
Presser foot up, needle high, the threading path, a quick check, and bringing up the bobbin thread.
How-To
Sewing machine tension
Balanced stitches, what loops on top or bottom mean, dial direction, and why to rethread first.
How-To
How to sew a button
Doubled thread, a toothpick shank, and 2-hole, 4-hole and shank buttons, per UF Extension.