I need to learn to sew

I have a decent sewing machine. I have some nice patterns and instructions on how to do it. I even have some pretty fabrics. The problem - it's all greek to me in trying to UNDERSTAND the instructions.

My Mom used to sew stuff for us when we were little. It's mostly the Halloween costumes I remember most. But there were patches sewn on jeans when the knees would get worn through, and the Polish costume dress that also came from her sewing machine.

I was too young to learn from her and her techniques. She still has her sewing machine. But after she started working when I was 10, the machine gathered dust in the closet.

My sudden need for shutting up and learning to sew - blouses. About six months ago, I grew a couple more inches in the bust area. This morning I had to try three button down blouses to find one that wasn't constricting my chest with every breath. And it still pulls more than I like in bust area. I don't want to look like a slut, but I want blouses that aren't frumpy big in the waist either.