I agree with Scissor Queen - plain muslin and contrasting thread is the best way to learn with. You can see your stitches, control their eveness and straightness very easily and when you choose a good fabric quality it's easy to needle.
In my hand quilting workshops I suggest to bring this material sandwiched with a low loft poly or 80/20 batting, so you can concentrate on the technique and you don't have to fight with the material.
Have fun!