Hi Singalong. I live close to NY state near Binghamton. My suggestion is to go to Joann's or a local quilt shop and buy one of Eleanor Burns books. She explains cutting, piecing and sewng blocks very well. She has many very easy quilts. You won't be sorry . Thats how i started out. I made a Burgoyne Surrounded of Red white and Blue and I beleive it was Eleanor's pattern. Loved it . good LUck. Marge