RE: How's this for a beginner to start out?
Look for a fellow by the screen name of EvanRCU. He sells plans for an updated version of the Quaker called the Quaker 2000. It's and old timer design just like you're wanting. 105" span, .56 four-stroke for power, and should do exactly what you're wanting to do. These designs aren't good at surviving impacts and they take longer to build than most have patients to do now a days, but I think it's going to be exactly what you're looking for. He can tell you about what will work best in that plane and he's a very knowledgable fellow.