My very first quilt was a friendship quilt, where several co-workers made blocks to share. We pieced them together in the arrangement of our choice. I did that on my own. Having watched Simply Quilts, I kinda knew my way around. (So I thought) Then I began buying books, watching more quilting shows (Alex, Georgia, Sue, and all the guests on those shows). Then I got into a few classes. And the rest is history. I still consider myself a beginner after 15 years.