Mary I feel like I'm the right person to answer this since I'm in the process of making a quilt for a raffle (DD is trying to adopt and needs help). First do not choose a pattern that is time consuming (my first biggest mistake). Choose a block that is at least 12" finished (second big mistake). If you're good at set-in triangles, choose a block you can set on point - less blocks that way (thought of this after I had made some of the more difficult blocks, and of course they can't be set on point). Choose a color scheme that will appeal to the masses and try to use a traditional pattern. Fabrics nothing dull or nothing too bright. Good luck!