The first time I tried to sew anything I bought some fleece from Joanns and made a pillow. Then I tried to sew a baby blanket with satin binding. I didn't miter the corners correctly
but my baby's have a new blankie.
I did buy a beginners sewing book, which has helped a lot. I also subscribe to about.com. Here are some beginner sewing projects. Happy sewing!
Sewing Projects Index - Simple, Quick Beginner Sewing Projects