I have Harriet Hargraves book and love it. But basically, just dive in and do it! I did freehand feathers, stippling and diagonal quilting all on the same quilt- my second! I just practiced on a few small sandwich squares first. I recommend gloves. I purchased a pair of lightweight cotton knit gardening gloves with rubber fingers for $2 at Lowe's and they made a big difference. Give it a try and let us know how you like it :)