For my first quilt I took a two times 3 hrs (6 total) class. I learned how to cut out a lot of material at once and how to keep sewing w/o putting in pins. It was worth it.
After that (and after seeing the Gee's Bend exhibit at a major San Francisco museum.. I've heard that minor museums had much less impressive shows) I have thrown out a lot of rules.
Do what you want. When you get into a position in which you can't figure out what to do next, be creative or surf the internet. I surf a lot and have a few hundred ideas saved in about 30 categories. Quilt. Don't fret. Quilt for someone you love (love can never be "wrong"), they'll cherish it and you'll have become a better quilter just by doing.
When I make a quilt for someone-I-don't-know-who (like for a grandchild to raffle off) I find myself doing panel quilts... I just frame the panel and back it as beautifully as I can because I need the vision of the person. A big drawback for me, but I'm happy with my system.
Finally... FORGET THE 1/4" ABSOLUTE SEAM ALLOWANCE. Just make sure it's at least close to 1/4" so it won't pull out; a little extra doesn't matter unless you are doing really small detailed work. I have arthritis and can't even hold little pieces! I make squares and frame them with uneven edges that may vary an inch from side to side, and block them the size I need when done. It gives a quilt much more movement and liveliness!
Just DO! and enjoy!