Seed is really not the best way to go. It will take some years to get good sized bushes and you are not guaranteed the vivid colours of the named cultivars. The red stemmed dog woods (which are cultivars of several different species) are really easy to grow from cuttings taken now. Try to find a named variety which will thrive in your area. Some also offer variegated summer foliage. If cash is an issue buy one good plant and propagate from that. The Shrubs Forum would be a good place to ask for names.

Here is a link that might be useful: Shrubs Forum.

flora beat me to it... see link about propagation ...

find one in town .. in what looks like a decent garden ... and knock on the door.. and ask if you can take a few cuttings ... that is how i got most of my dozen lilacs .... MOST.. not all .. gardeners.. love to share plants.. and that is my newbie hint of the day ... join a local garden club ... second hint of the day ...

have fun learning ...

ken

Here is a link that might be useful: link