Good for you. I started with just a practice piece and got the feel of the machine first without trying for any motifs or patterns. For me that was too much pressure in the beginning. Once I got comfortable just swirling around and making sure stitches were
good I learned to meander. Most of my first FMQ projects used that in various sizes - I didn’t mark anything. Now I am more comfortable with other motifs. The best advice is to practice. I don’t think any of us hit a homerun out of the park in the beginning. Watch some Leah Day and Angela Walters videos for inspiration and tips. And practice practice practice. It gets better and easier and is really fun.