I agree with QuiltnLady1 on the supply list. I'd probably go for a 45mm rotary cutter, and if you can find one, I'd suggest an 8.5 x 24 in. ruler. When you are supply shopping (best deal usually JoAnn's with coupons), pick up some fabrics that the colors appeal to you. Doesn't matter if you have a pattern in mind or not - just find some bolts of fabrics with colors you like. Then place the ruler you think you like on top of those colors and see how easy it is or is not to read on those colors. More than likely, you'll return to those colors over time in some way or another. Pick some dark and light colors and check the ruler again for ease of reading. What color combinations on rulers work for one person may not be so easy for someone else. Take a look at some books/magazines while you're there. Start out with a table runner or lap quilt so you're not so overwhelmed with something huge.
Enjoy the process. It's not a race.