Help needed for project

I need help in a project where I am trying to have a motor connected to a variable resistor that I can plug into an AC outlet. I don't know that much about wiring and electrical things but I would like to know if it is possible to do this. Again, I am trying to have a variable resistor that plugs into an AC outlet and then from the resistor the current goes to control the motor speed. I have looked online and can't seem to find a plug in resistor; it would be perfect if there was a resistor that plugs into an outlet and the other end you can plug the motor in. If anybody can help I would appreciate it.