Being a 4-H leader I believe in the motto - Learn by doing. I just cut a bunch of squares out and sewed them together by hand. That was in the days before rotary cutters and mats and rulers. Then I used some boards with denim tacked to them to make a quilt frame and put the quilt on it and hand quilted it. I did not have anyone helping me or any books and that was before the internet too - so no help there. It turned out great. Did the same thing with my second attempt only picked a harder pattern. Put that in the county fair and not only won first place, but also Best in Women's division!
Now, many years later, I am thrilled with all the new goodies...internet for lots of info, rulers, cutting mats, rotary cutters... Have a great time learning and enjoy.