I mostly use charm packs. There are a lot of patterns available - Moda Bake Shop has a bunch. This link will show all of their Charm Pack recipes (patterns)
http://www.modabakeshop.com/search/label/Charm%20Pack
Little scraps This & That patterns also use charm packs - most I've seen use one pack for a table mat/runner.
I like them because as a beginner I have a mix of fabrics that go well together. Plus I usually can't find 35-40 prints from a collection at my local LQS.