If you pick a pattern with good directions you should be ok. Everybody is right don't try to start with a voque pattern they are more difficult even for regular sewers. Yes, on the back of the pattern somewhere it should list material suitable for the pattern you are making. Making the pattern out of a sheet is a very good idea, you will feel alot more comfortable then when you go to make it with "real" material. And of course the second time you make anything it does go alot smoother and quicker. Try it you will probably enjoy it.