Welcome to all the newbies joining in, I think the Boom swap are the best way to learn a little more about what we have grown to love doing, sewing blocks. All the oldies (but goodies) here are more then glad to help out if you ever run into a problem or have any "silly question". BTW there are no silly questions, each answer gives you the help you need to grow as a quilter, so never hesitate to ask about anything.
I also see that different ones have give their beginning sewing history so I figure tell you mine. First of all, I was an industrial mechanic by trade and loved doing sheet metal work as well as wood working. So sewing wasn't even in my normal things to do but as I was raising my first 2 children by my self, out of necessity, I taught myself to sew on a machine that I picked up at a yard sale. I made my kids clothes because I couldn't afford to buy them. They had the best looking clothes around but at that time it only cost 25 cents a yard so making the clothes was well worth the effect.
Jumping forward a few years, I got remarried and had a 3rd child. When he was only 2 months old, I broke my foot and had to stop working. The doctors told me that I wouldn't be able to walk again but I showed them. It took 5 years of working on that but I managed to do just fine. I still can't do the work I enjoyed so when my youngest son went into the Army, I pulled out the sewing machine and started teaching myself to make quilt blocks. I did this because the guys in Afghanistan called & said they were freezing and since they didn't have heat at the time, I managed to make & send them 41 cot size quilts, & it only took me 3 months to make them all. That is how I got started making quilt blocks and I've loved it ever since. So, if I can do it, anyone can do it!!!!!! Just sit back and relax and enjoy the process, it's all about the fun & excitement of making something that will bring a smile to someone face.
One thing I have learned while being in these Boom swaps is that all the ladies love a pretty block & no matter how ugly we might think a piece of fabric is, they sure know how to bring out the best in it. I can now say with confidence, "There is no such thing as an ugly piece of fabric", it's just a ducking looking to be embellished.
So welcome aboard and enjoy the fun!!!!!!