Follow the commission, not an old prototype video
The prototype and commercial game do not share the same campaign or update history. Confirm that any tutorial you follow shows the Steam release and preferably names its build.
Finish one stage before entering the next
Read and measure first, settle the sketch and fabric next, cut every panel, assemble them all, then sew and decorate. This makes a missing piece easier to locate than jumping between rooms repeatedly.
Use the bell for the next customer
Since Build 403, you need to ring the shop bell to summon the next customer. If progression appears stopped, check the bell before assuming the save is broken.
Treat the journal as more than one visible page
If a task appears absent, page through the available journal or sketchbook sections and confirm there is not another active commission. Community reports show this is an easy place to miss a task.
Verification noteCommunity-reported workflow; menu layout may change in later builds.