/jp/ - Otaku Culture

For those of you guys that have made custom Fumos, what tips would you give to someone trying their hand at one for the first time? Pic related is what I've got so far. I'm using a bootleg Aya as a base and I've gotten away with modifying existing clothes that work for the design, but now I'm at the part where I have to actually make stuff myself. The most experience I have with sewing is the small mends and stuff I used to do to clothes and the occasional button reattachment from when I was a kid, but that was years ago. I don't own a sewing machine, and I'd rather not have to invest the money for one at the moment. Do they sell cuttable cloth is stores? If they do, I think I should be able to just draw up pieces to make the clothes, cut them up, and hand sew them together. I'd like to think I'm crafty enough to be able to at least do that much...
Whatever tips you guys have are appreciated!