I agree on checking the tutorials on-line. For some patterns, try Rail Fence or Chinese coins - both you can get on line by googling. Also check out your local quilt store or even JoAnns - they'll have beginner classes. Some people can pick it up by working on their own and others benefit from the class experience. Think about what works for you and go that way. The advantage of a class is that there's an instructor and other students who can help with problems when they occur.