I started quilting in 2005 when a friend of mine at work offered to teach 5 of us to quilt by hand. She showed us the Jinny Beyer dvd's and taught us with a mystery quilt. She was/and is a fabulous teacher! We learned curved pieces, diamonds, stars, 4-patch, borders and hand quilting all in our first piece (a lapquilt). Since then I have made 12-14 baby quilts, 3 queen size and numerous lap quilts. After developing serious neuropathy in my hands, I moved to the sewing machine to piece. I had not used a sewing machine in 35 years, and then it was only one semester in home economics. Thanks be to this board for the patience in teaching me to sew straight seams, etc. I am now totally hooked on quilting and devote time every day to my hobby/obsession. I have a whole room just for sewing, and this spills over into the living room. I have participated in two IRR/RowRobins - they have really challenged me in my quilting skills and creativity. Jump on in, the water's fine!