when I taught quilting and applique (eons ago), I did a 4-block "sampler" of applique, using the following techniques: needle-turn, machine satin stitch, freezer paper, and machine "invisible" w/hem stitch. We used 4 different blocks, similar in style, but varied enough that they looked nice together. Each lesson was 2 weeks long: the first week we learned the technique and got started on it, and the second week was for refining that technique and finishing the block. The class was 10 weeks (sessions) long, because we needed to set the blocks together and put a border around them. When finished, each student had a nice 4-block wall quilt to hang that showed the different techniques.
There are other techniques to learn, too, but this was a great introduction for anyone who wanted to learn applique. I'd suggest trying something like this for yourself, as you will learn a lot and discover a) whether you like applique; b) what technique you like to do; c) how much work it is/how long it takes.
Just jump in! The water's fine! And we're here to help.
Odessa