Quilting Help!!!

[xitsmylifex.livejournal.com]

Okay, so I need help... all I ever do is sit and play with my computer and graphics.... well, and study... but that's a whole different story. Anyway, I want to start sewing a quilt. I've seen lots that I like at stores, but they're all much too expensive.... I really want to make one so I have something nice and warm to cuddle up in, but I have no idea how to make one. Any one have any advice, tips, patterns, etc?? I have no idea what I'm doing!!! I'm hoping that I'll get the hang of it and I'll be able to make my boyfriend/almost fiance's parents and grandmother one for Christmas.... or maybe just his mom for her bday in May.......

Is there any suggestion as to patterns of fabric too? I know that some fabrics just don't go together, and sometimes when you look at a fabric it doesn't look like it'd match but when you quilt it together it does....

If I had the time to drive to Tennesee for a week I'd have my grandmother teach me.... and I think my mom might know how but I've never seen her make one (even though she's been wanting to make one for my sister and I) and I'm sure I could ask for her help, but I'm somewhat.... independent? and don't take well to having someone right there telling me that I'm doing something wrong....

Thanks in advance!