I am also new to quilting, having only been doing it about a year. What I tend to do is search online for "easy quilts"or "quilts for beginners." Then I get some ideas and then I look for colors I like. I have found that I prefer sewing in plain colors or variations of one color. I am VERY fond of purple and have made three quilts that are mainly purple.
So....I look for simple things. Does that help any?
I also worry a great deal about what I select, as I can't visualize what my quilt will look like. I am always surprised by my results, but so far I have liked them.
I am anxious to read what others say. I know my sister likes to select patterns that will challenge her. She likes to learn new techniques. THAT scares me silly, but she has been quilting 12 more years than I have.