I started quilting in 1969, when there were no books, no quilt shops, and just one quilt magazine. It was difficult finding 100% cotton, since so much was poly/cotton.
I usually made traditional patterns, with a formuka: one calico, one plaid or check, and a solid background, often muslin. My first 100 quilts were made with fabric cut out with scissors, all hand sewn and hand quilted.
I have to say that my quilting, along with the entire craft, has changed dramatically. I'm a longarm quilter now, quilting for the public. I love traditional patterns, but I don't like making sampler quilts any more.
I often make radiant designs, one big central star or one big tree. I have thousands of yards of fabric. I use fabrics and colors that one could only dream of in 1969.