Welcome from "on the road" currently outside of Detroit Mi. There is absolutely nothing to be scared of. Every one of us has made a quilt with many mistakes and times where we've had to rip out the same seam numerous times. I agree to start small (baby quilt is perfect) and don't make your piecing to intriquit. Measure everything twice before you cut, and baste before you quilt. Then just pick up that pattern and jump in. The worst that will happen is you'll have a great lesson and good laugh. I've had a few. Have fun, and welcome