I am 25 and have sewed most of my life, I come from a long line seamtresses. Personally I would say that unless you have a sewing machine I would recommend starting by learning to knit. I managed to learn that in a few hours.

If you have a sewing machine I would say starting with something as simple as a pair of doll PJ's. I love the pattern's by Joan Hinds. Simple but elegant.

Ashley