Lots of great advice here, do check out Craftsy.com there are 3 very helpful free classes 2 block of the month classes and a color theory class which has a more modern take on the block of the month concept. Also you don't have to make a sampler quilt. You can make pillows from your blocks. Another suggestion you really need to follow up on are the Jenny Doan tutorials and Mary Fons has "Quilty" videos on UTube- she teaches many basic skills and blocks too. You're going to have a great time! Relax and enjoy.