Magpie, man, seriously, hit the library. they'll have some good stuff for her, I'm betting. esp on buttons and the like (god those are bitches).
I assume she's using a machine, so here's my 2 cents on the matter:
* you can NEVER pin something down too securely. and ALWAYS use pins.
* also, always take those pins out just before you sew over them, because when you break your last sewing needle on a pin, you will be an unhappy camper.
* measure twice, cut once.
* good light, and patience are both godsends. use both liberally.
good luck.