I started practicing different designs on practice sandwiches that are 12" square. I, also, started on small lap quilts first and have only done a couple of larger quilts recently. Gloves are a must and space to throw your quilt around is helpful but puddling it and not rolling it works best...at least for me. I have a sketch book that I practice with...many talented LA quilters who teach recommend you doodle your pattern first before you start on a quilt because it trains your muscles in the movement of the design. I followed this advice and seems to help me. Practice practice practice. Good luck!