Hi and welcome to the best place to learn a lot about quilting! I have found so many good answers here.
I can't offer any hand quilting help, but would suggest a class to learn the basics about quilting. Check with your local community college for classes or quilt shops. My first class was with the adult ed here in CA....that was before all the budget cuts...so that might not be available any more. Sewing machine stores and quilt shops and quilt guilds offer good help.