Congrats on your win. Isn't it fun to win something?
Here's a great site that gives 10 good tips. She recommends 1/2" or 5/8" seam allowance. Also, don't iron the minky. If you are using the kind with the little raised dots, ironing will flatten them. (Ask me how I know this!).
http://www.easysewingforbeginners.co...ng-with-minky/