A Time to Sew

I have a birthday coming up in a few weeks.  It's been a long time since I've asked for a specific gift for a , birthday, Christmas, etc.  C usually gets me something nice or for anniversaries and Christmas, we'll sometimes buy a big ticket item for teh house that we've both wanted. This birthday, however, I've asked for a sewing machine.  I've never owned one, nor do I know how to sew.  But how is one supposed to learn how to sew without one?  So I've asked for one and we'll see if it comes.  I have 2 projects already in the pipeline and this little boy's tie up above is my third.  I found this over at the Purl Bee and its perfect for my boys.