I had an employer who said she started learning the basics by joining a training program many years ago that lasted three months. And then she self-studied by sewing a lot. She now only does not sew her own clothes but she also knits, weaves and cross stitches. I’m no expert but I’ve seen her works and they look great, her formal wear quite elegant. On to my point now… This employer of mine is happy when a neighbor, a granddaughter or someone she just met at a fabric store expresses desire to learn. She would say yes quickly if asked to mentor. So I suggest finding someone like her. Ladies who frequent fabric stores are your best candidates and try asking the store employees since they usually know their customers well enough that they could point you to the right person.