a quilting notebook/journal is a very good idea...also it sometimes makes the math easier when you sketch out your design on graph paper...then all you have to do is add 1/2" measurements to each piece for the seam allowance. decide the size you want your quilt top to be, frame that size on the graph paper then start adding your blocks/design inside the frame. there is alot of geometry involved in quilt making, (you really do use this stuff after school's out) there are formulas to learn. so, pull out that notebook and start your quilting adventure!