I like the suggestion of the Log Cabin quilt as it can be laid out in various patterns. You are only as good of a Quilter as you challenge yourself. My first quilt what a sampler quilt with twelve blocks and different techniques. I enjoyed my journey with that quilt and learned a lot from it. Was it my best? It was at that time. If you only stay doing real easy things you will not learn any new techniques. The Log Cabin is really easy and Eleanor Burns has a really good book on it . plus there are free pattern on the internet. If you type in your search engine Log cabin Eleanor burns you tube you will be able to see the process on doing this pattern. Good luck with what ever you choose. Your friends will love it.