Disappearing 9-patch pattern?

So, my husband bought me my first sewing machine a couple years ago as a Christmas gift.  We weren't supposed to get each other gifts, so of course, I gave him trouble (even though I was REALLY excited!).  He told me that I just had to make him a quilt one day.

So I want to make him a quilt as a surprise either for his birthday (coming up in May) or for Christmas.

I think I've decided I want to make a disappearing 9 patch.  I think I'd like to make one a bit bigger than a lap quilt (I think there is a large lap quilt size?).  Anyway, I have NEVER made a quilt before and I am hoping there is a pattern (preferably free!) somewhere online that will tell me how much fabric I need for the size I want to make.  I'd just feel most comfortable if I have something guiding me through an entire quilt for my first one.

I also just won $25 for the FQS so I might grab some fabric for the quilt from there.  Any suggestions of fabric for a man's quilt?  Something nice, but nothing TOO girly (no pink!).

Thanks!!!!

I know that Amy Butler's husband has just bought out a range of fabric that is a bit more masculine or at least less girly than some.  Take a peek at those.