There are many different ways to make a quilt. One method is to embroider designs, then sew the trimmed squares together to form the 'top' of your quilt. Then you sandwich the backing and wadding with the top, then sew it all together [this is quilting the layers together]. I know this sounds too simple, but so difficult to explain in one paragraph.

I like to use half embroidery and half patchwork on some of my quilts... buy yourself a gridbook (you know the ones for math) and draw up what you would like it to look like, i use a half inch grid size and use 4 per block. I use even size blocks 6in or 8in ect as centers then you can add a patchwork of the same size or just use sashing between the embroidery thry look great also... Either way just have fun..

Before you jump in feet first, go look at Anita Goodesign;s Mix n Match quilt sets. There are some basic quilt shape sets there for $35-65. You can "pull" your designs into these files and stitch your quilt squares out in the hoop with your batting. Then you machine stitch them together in strips and add backing. So much faster and easier. Unless you want to do it the slow, handmade way!