Well, I'm a 3 year old quilter (that is to say I've been quilting 3 years) and I have yet to achieve anything "wonderful" but I do enjoy the whole process. So far, I have always used patterns, but I've chosen my own fabrics rather than use kits. Exception being a few kits supplied by Quilts For Kids.
I enjoy choosing the fabrics, piecing, even pin basting the sandwich, and I love the feel of the quilt as it becomes a quilt. I'll never forget the first one I made and what a delightful experience that was when the top, batting, and back suddenly started to feel like a real quilt.
I've started looking at patterns now with an eye to modifying them. As fall and winter approach, I'm looking forward to having more time to do just that.