don't be afraid!!!!!!!!!!! :-D i can't stress this enough!!!!!!! quilting, just like any other craft/hobby/obsession should be a way to express one self and fun. i have made a few quilts by just guessing with hand and machine sewing.( one was actually for an auction at my granddaughters pre-school, which netted them $1500. i totally passed out.LOL) am now in the process of learning actual techniques. the trick is to always be eager to learn. don't be worried if you mess up, it's all the process. Relax, and Enjoy!!!!!!!!!!!