Take a look at Railroad tracks, it's pictured in my avatar. (my second quilt, by the way) It was very easy for a beginner. (I made it for my first grandson) Take a look at the website listed below, there are more patterns than anyone can count! What I've learned has been off the internet and this message board. It's all here.
http://www.quilterscache.com/
p.s.---welcome from sunny California
~Joan