Hola AutumnRain, welcome to the Guild! I'm actually somewhat new myself. A couple of pieces of advice to help get you started. First, if you don't already have mapping software, I'd check out the "Quickstart Guide to Fantasy Mapping" post written by Ravells (you can find the link at the top of the Member Introductions forum). It's got a lot of great, condensed, advice for beginning cartography. My own preference is for GIMP, since it's free, get's great results, and well, is the only software that I'm currently familiar with. Second, check out the tutorials section and you'll find tons of great walk throughs on map-making. There is even a tutorial on mapping with pen and inks if that's what you're into. Anyway this is a great community here, and I encourage you to post your pics when you start mapping so that other guild members can share tips and advice with you. Look forward to seeing your first WIP.
Cheers,
-Arsheesh.