Hi Grandmaok, Save a LOT of time and expence and take a beginners class, at a local quilt shop. You will get some valuable hands on instruction. Oh, hi from Twain Harte, Calif., west of Yosemite. Good luck. You will never fine a better group of women to be part of. Fun, informative,loving,and caring, than quilters. I've been one for 30yrs. and love it. Well by for now and have fun. OXOXOXglo