I happen to like the "Easy Rule" by Sharon Hultgren, for me they are easy to see on any color fabric. I also say start off with a 6 1/2 x 24 1/2" and a 12 1/2" square, but I also use my 6 1/2 x 6 1/2" the most. For ease of use try and make sure all your rulers are the same brand. They are all marked differently and having rulers that are consistent makes it easy to use any of them. I did just buy a Fiskers 8 1/2 x 8 1/2" ruler at Walmart, it isn't too bad either. You can buy other rulers as you grow with confidence and find that different sizes come in very handy. Good luck and remember to have fun!