I think each quilt starts with an idea of some kind. You need a quilt for a particular room, you want to make one for a particular person, you see a fabric that inspires you, you see a pattern that inspires you, you have a particular theme in mind, etc. I would say, decide on your idea -- the purpose of the quilt -- and that will lead you to pattern and/or fabric. You did a great job on your first quilt. Congratulations!