When I read your post, I thought wow she is sure brave. I knew you would get a lot of replies. Touching the fabric will tell you more about the quality than the price will. I think you should buy the highest quality that you can afford. I just wanted to tell you that sometimes the prices at Wal-Mart or JoAnn's are close to or more that the quilt shops. The other advantage at the LQS is the clerks are usually knowledgeable and very willing to help you. Keep use posted on your progress, and everyone here is very willing to offer GOOD advise. That being said, Make sure you buy enough of your background fabric at one time same dye lot you know.
Sue