Welcome from Sioux Falls, SD!
Definately take a class! My DH bought me a Brother SE-44 for Christmas, it is a great machine to learn on and I can quilt, sew and embroider. I began classes and have learned so much, made a beautiful beginners quilt and I am in the process of making a queen size denim rag quilt...oh and I made the patchwork jacket from the tute on this site. Having a great time, folks on here are great and have tons of wisdom!
Happy I found this site!