Welcome from the desert in Washington State... wayyyy over on the west coast!
There are wonderful suggestions that have already been listed here and also tons more on this board. You mentioned you like the polyester fabrics. It wouldn't hurt for you to try a doll quilt size (anywhere from 12" x 12" to 24" x 24") of each fabric you think you are interested in... 100% cotton verses polyester. By working in a smaller quilt you will find out how each type works and what you like. In "art" quilts, just about anything works. Sheers, anything. Not sure if you have run into this on this board yet but a lot of people work with used clothing purchases at thrift shops.
We were all newbies once, both in quilting and on this board. The nice thing about the board is that the welcome mat is always there/here! So, welcome!