Elliejean, a good resource to look into are the monthly knitting magazines (Simply Knitting, Knitting, Let's Knit and Knit Today). Although some of the patterns are dire (a knitted long sleeved crop top and drawstring mini skirt combo in a recent issue of Simply Knitting), they all have good illustrations, an abbreviation guide for knitting and crochet and a variety of patterns that are as simple or difficult as you're ready to tackle. As for me, my resource of choice is Ravelry. It will suck you in and not let you go if you're not careful, but it's an amazing information source for all things knitting, crochet, spinning, weaving, etc. and it's all free.