I have been using patterns since I started. There are such beautiful and amazing quilt patterns available. I also love to follow block patterns. Usually using whatever fabrics I have available for all of my quilts and blocks. I recently stepped out of my comfort zone and began learning free motion machine embroidery and free motion quilting. Wow is it ever fun...but even for that I find patterns from comic book pages and online freebies.
I just want to add that I have enjoyed reading each and every response. Just make sure you are enjoying what ever you do in quilting. That is what makes it so special and wonderful!