[alice_addicted]

1. Sewing classes can be learned at your local community college, or even highschool if you live in a nice area that offers that, they are usually the best way to go to learn. However, it is equally as easy if you have an elder who is experenced in the art to teach you the basics: regular stich, zig-zag, baste etc. With the elder I would recommend going to JoAnns and picking up a Simplicity Basics pattern, they are geared to first-timers and easier. Most of the time, said elder if they exist is often happy to teach you since it is a "dying art".

a. It's impossible to be a master after a year, or even two or three. Just learn at a steady pace, absorb what you can and do all to improve. Even for good measures freind someone who has more years of knowledge then you so the can help you out in tight spots.

Beginner would be, I think: regular sewing, basting, etc. Basics, the first things to learn and build on like a pyramid.
Advanced would incorperate zig-zag stiching, gathering and whatnot.

No one said that this would be easy, so settle down with a decent machine, trial fabrics and easy projects. That is key, start small then scale up, do not simply jump into the most complex thing you can find. The best first cosplay is often an anime school-girl, as lame or generic as it sounds.

2. Cosplay is drawing uncessary attention to yourself, its just a fact that one has to learn and be okay with. Dressing in costume demands attention: be it good, bad.

In that regard, most parents are rather reluctant or embarassed, but they learn to live with it after a while. At least in my experience.

3. Good costumes can be made on budget, it is possible! Just as a purchase from online shops will give you some piece of crap. If you want to order, I suggest joining Cosplay.com, and viewing which Ebay users and sites are appropriate to buy from who do not scam you. There are people who steal images and claim to send you something amazing, watch it.