Here's how I became a contributor of mootools (a javascript framework).
1. I stumbled upon the project pre 1.0, loved it's ideas, but my javascript wasn't good.
2. I checked out the code and loved the style.
3. I started hanging around in IRC where the core developers chatted about decisions and problems.
4. I read the source code and when I wasn't sure why some code was like it was, I asked in the channel. Either someone of the team explained why it's that way, or committed my minor suggestion.
5. That way I learned more and more about the language and the project. My suggestions became better. I loved to see my suggestions being picked up and used in the wild.
6. Eventually I got commit rights (though that wasn't important to me)
My advice is to just go for it. Join the IRC room, talk with the people. Help with bugs or documentation. It's easier to get involved than you might think, there are never enough people working on such projects.
1. I stumbled upon the project pre 1.0, loved it's ideas, but my javascript wasn't good.
2. I checked out the code and loved the style.
3. I started hanging around in IRC where the core developers chatted about decisions and problems.
4. I read the source code and when I wasn't sure why some code was like it was, I asked in the channel. Either someone of the team explained why it's that way, or committed my minor suggestion.
5. That way I learned more and more about the language and the project. My suggestions became better. I loved to see my suggestions being picked up and used in the wild.
6. Eventually I got commit rights (though that wasn't important to me)
My advice is to just go for it. Join the IRC room, talk with the people. Help with bugs or documentation. It's easier to get involved than you might think, there are never enough people working on such projects.
You will be welcomed by the community!