I am relatively a newbie, too, and I find I am leaning toward the 1 yd unless it is something more special. I tried a fat quarters pack (just to see what they were) but since my interests are so far varing since I am newly retired, to quilting, sewing dolls, trying different things, I am leaning toward the 1 yd. Besides the yard in many instances seems to be cheaper than the FQ. Don't flog me - I said I was new to this, and bless this board for all of its knowledge and wisdom. :-)
Marysewfun