I'am using 2006 so I will try and help you set this up the best I can.
The first thing you need to do is add a new company. After you open up Quick Books go to file and click on add a new company, follow the easy step interview process it will take you through the process step by step. When you get to the where it says select you industry you need to look through the list and find an industry that is close to what you do. I use a Veterinary Office, under Animal Services and it worked real well for me to get started then I tweeked it as I went. You may also find a better one under Misc Services. 2009 may have a better choice.
Just follow the tutoral and answer the questions that pertain to your buisness.
BEfarrier wrote:After hours invested, I still have no idea how to simply enter a new customer,
You add customers in the customer center.
BEfarrier wrote:show that I shod a horse,
You do this under customers, Create Invoices.
BEfarrier wrote:show that I was paid with a check,
You do this under customers, Receive payment.
BEfarrier wrote:the check was deposited into my business checking account
You do this in Banking under, Record Deposits.
BEfarrier wrote:and list the inventory used for that job.
I don't keep detailed track of my inventory. But I know you can do this.
I have found the helps section to be very discriptive and have been able to figure out how to do anything I wanted to do using help.
I hope this helps you.