For me a good beginner applique project would be hearts on a solid square. You get to practice gentle curves and points. You can make them as big as you like. A six inch background (cut 7" then trim when applique is done) and a 4 inch heart would be good. I like to start on a straight side of the heart and head to the curve first. Use small straight pins or baste the heart in place. My preferred method is needle turn applique. When I took a class on Baltimore album blocks, I had to get bi-focals first. Guess that means my eyes are getting old. (I'm not, just my eyes!!!) LOL This could be a great scrap quilt or baby quilt depending on your choice of fabrics.
Good luck. No wasted timed allowed.