Take your time and go slow

measure twice, cut once

read directions all the way through and make a test block

It's a lot like painting. Most of the work in the preparation.

Don't get upset if you think you made a mistake. that is when creativity starts.

It is only fabric.

Have fun.
peace

I like "measure twice, cut once", I've almost got caught a couple of times and I'm glad I took the time to measure twice!

I've learned in the exact same way...the hard way. Lessons learned hard are better remembered. But we all are here to help with just about anything. I'd say pick projects that challenge you but not overwhelm. Work outside the comfort zone a little at a time. Your skill will naturally advance all on it's own.

Start early with a plan to organize your fabrics and maintain it.
If you can afford it, buy it!
Love your seam ripper!

Even experienced quilters make mistakes.

Allow yourself enough time to finish a project.

Make and finish one or two projects before offering/ promising to make a quilt for everyone you know.

Welcome from Minnesota! All really good advice here. Use this forum a lot. Check out the tutorials at Missouri Star Quilt Company ( I love Jennie Doan). Check out "About Quilting.com", there is lots of good advice there too. Don't be afraid to ask questions, there are many seasoned quilters out there that learn something new everyday. Don't waste your money on a lot of rulers. I got by for years with a 4 x 18. After buying nearly every color of thread on the market I learned that I can make almost any quilt with gray. Most of all, HAVE FUN and keep your first quilts. You will cherish them in years to come.

I've seen a ton of MSQ tutorials, they've been helpful. I'm writing third stuff down.Lots of good info. Thanks ladies!

A timesaver fo me would have been starting my quilt journal with my very first quilt. You should document your work with pictures and descriptions give credit where it is due. Take the credit for your modifications and your own designs, when you get to that point. I just did my journal after over 15 years of quilting. I couldn't remember the details on several and a couple I didn't even have pictures, only a memory of them. Also it is a great tool for you to follow your own improvement. Welcome to the Board! Learn how to post pictures in your thread when you have specific questions and the support here is overwhelming.

Welcome to the board from Northern Indiana. You will find a lot of help and answers here and remember, there are no dumb questions:)

Follow your heart, trust your eye - It's ok to learn them the hardway (sometimes they stick better!) and that gives you the experience! When you get stuck, come here and ask a question - you'll have lots of options to make a decision from to go forward with!!