It all depends on whether you want to do your applique by hand or machine, or whether you want to turn the edges under or just fuse and stitch down the shapes. There are so many techniques you might use, and all are worth knowing. The book Applique Applique Applique is a good starter, but I would advise taking a class, either in person or online. I advise starting with large pieces. Some commercial patterns are really complicated and tiny - they can frustrate you on what is really a very fun technique to use. Have fun!