I agree that making a sampler is very good place to start. I took a beginner's quilt introduction class. We made a 4 patch and a 9 patch in this class. I then took the sampler class which included 6 blocks and the teacher had us make 6 blocks that each taught a technique. Applique( we chose which applique), reverse applique(we chose which one), a block using curved piecing(I chose the drunkard patch in "rob peter to pay paul" design, strip piecing we all did a 4 set log cabins block for this one, the book for class had a picture of a pillow with a basket, which was not a pattern in the book and she had everyone do this as she taught how to draft a pattern and then we learned triangle piecing, and a block with diamond shape piecing-I chose Morning star. When we finished the class we had experience with the basic skills for most blocks. I think it was very useful to have learned all of these. So I would suggest you get a beginner book (or take a class) and learn the variable methods by doing a block using the different style of piecing or applique as a good place to start.
If you pick fabrics that you love or like I think you will be happy with the quilt, and you will learn a variety of skills. Any you don't like you will be aware of before starting a quilt using that type of block.
Enjoy the adventure!
Originally Posted by
zennia
When I became interested in quilting i bought a book about learning to quilt. By following the book I made a sampler quilt. I learned alot from doing this. Some blocks I loved and still make other I will not make again. Also along the way taste and styles change. What we love today may be "why did I buy this" next year. Have fun and enjoy. There are always new patterns and notions coming out to try. It is not a boring hobby for sure.