Have to thank you for posting this query, i too am like you and about to embark on a quilt, (just waiting for the material to arrive from Canada), and i've learnt something from this wonderful site, in fact this passed week since i found this lovely site i've learnt so much.
It's such a shame that you are all in the USA, i can't find anyone locally in the UK that would help me, in fact i thought i found a group and when i phoned i was told that they don't help people but meet to stitch and chat, and that they don't have time to help people, sort of put me off for a long time,
But hey, i've got you guys and gals now so i'm on my way, just wish my material would hurry up and arrive,