Samantha,
When you see a quilt, what is the first thing that draws your eye? Do you like when it is all one kind of block, just repeated over and over, do you like when it is all different fabrics repeated in the same block, do you like colors that are close and it is just the color that attracts you, do you like applique where there are shapes added on top the blocks?
If you want a simple quilt, that is scrappy - you can buy a jelly roll (comes in a coordinating bundle of all fabrics in a line, the size is width of fabric - about 40-44" by 2 1/2" wide) or a honey bun roll (same as jelly roll, but 3 1/2" wide), and just sew them together, and have a quilt that is just big stripes of fabric. Using these bundles, you could make a log cabin or rail fence easily.
Or, buy charm packs (5" squares in a bundle of each fabric in a line) or layer cakes (like charms, but 10" squares) and make simple squares. These also can be cut diagonally from one corner to another to make simple triangles. That would enable you to make stars, hourglass, and many other patterns.
If you like all one pattern for each block, and just repeat it over and over, goto
http://www.quilterscache.com/QuiltBlocksGalore.html. When reviewing a block to see if it is good for a beginner, see each square and what happens to it. They are coded with pin icons - one pin would be a good option for a first quilt. The 2 pin blocks are harder. I also would suggest doing a large block (they have up to 16").
If you like applique, a site with some great simple patterns is
http://www.fatcatpatterns.com/ - her stuff is really adorable.
Go to your local library and flip through some quilt books for ideas, or visit some quilt magazines online, often there are free patterns to download. Check out
www.quickquilts.com - if it is listed as quick, they have enlarged it, simplified it, or use some special technique to make it quick - that means that it is also easy. Notice this link also connects to other quilt magazines in the same business family.
Also there is
http://www.allpeoplequilt.com/magazines/index.html - which has many free patterns - click on Projects.
I think either upsize the block so you have only 16 large blocks to do, rather than 50 small blocks, or do a wall hanging or lap throw for your first project or two. You don't want to discourage yourself before you have a chance to fall in love!
Maybe see if your LQS (local quilt shop) has classes, or ask about a guild near you.
And the best piece of advice, is flip through a few of the chats here - we have some very talented members. If you see something you like, even if it appears way too hard, write the maker, and ask what the basic blocks are or how hard the pattern was. Often gorgeous quilts are made using very simple techniques.
Good luck. Show us what you do.
If you like something with applique