• Blog
  • About
  • EQ Training
    • Tech Know Quilters Electric Quilt 8 Membership Training
    • Shoot for the Stars with EQ8
    • Electric Quilt 8 Sneak Peek
    • Scheduling a Workshop or Lecture
  • Store
  • Card Making
  • Contact
  • Free Stuff
    • Other Video Tutorials
Picture

Two Blocks in One Equilateral Triangle Quilt

9/24/2022

 
Read about creating the Equilateral Triangle Double Block below.  But first ----

Join me Live this Sunday or Monday only for a Free Transparency Quilt Webinar

Picture
Transparency quilts are those special quilts where the quilter places blocks of color within the quilt, creating an illusion of overlaying colors. 

These are often the quilts that stop us in our tracks and leave us mesmerized and wanting to continue to look at them.

But when it comes to creating our own, I have found many people feel a little overwhelmed and unsure how to work out the overlay along with the right color combinations.
​
Which is why I'm going to show you how.

Join my free Electric Quilt 8 webinar where I will take you step by step through the entire process to create your own transparency quilt.  In this live webinar, you will learn how to:  

  • ​draft a basic pieced block using EasyDraw tools and setting it into a Standard Layout.
  • choose from two different methods (one low-tech and another high-tech) to add the magic of transparency to the quilt.
  • convert your transparency quilt design into easy to piece blocks (only squares, rectangles, half square and quarter square triangle blocks).
  • color your transparency blocks using a super easy trick.
  • add your design into optional borders for your quilt.
What are you waiting for? Enroll today.

Plus you will also receive a guidebook that you will be able to use as a reference both during and after the video.  This will assist you when you're working on your project.
 
I can't wait to see your transparency quilt design.
Choose the time that works the best below and register for this amazing fun webinar.  You won't be disappointed.

​For all those that attend live, I will be offering a special bonus offer as well.  Make sure to join me.  I can't wait to see you there.

A replay will be available for 24 hours if you cannot attend live.
Date and Time
Registration Link
Local Time
Sunday, September 25
8 pm Central Time
Enroll
Time Zone Converter
​Monday, September 26
10 am Central Time
Enroll
Time Zone Converter
Monday, September 26
3 pm Central Time
Enroll
Time Zone Converter

Equilateral Triangle Double Block

Last week I shared the unboxing of a shoebox quilt from the turn of the century.  Fortunately it included an EQ4 diagram.
Check out the Shoebox Unboxing
Would you like to see how to draft these two Equilateral Triangle blocks as just one block using EasyDraw.  I am somewhat impressed that I figured out how to do this back in EQ4 (my first version of Electric Quilt).
Here are the EasyDraw blocks (before combining) and what they look like when set in a diamond layout.
Picture
EasyDraw Star Block
Picture
Equilateral Triangle Star Block
Picture
EasyDraw Diamond Block
Picture
Equilateral Triangle Diamond Block
Here is the reproduced quilt from EQ4 (including the less than inspiring EQ4 fabrics).  It is so nice that we don't need to use fake fabrics these days.  The fabric options in EQ8 are fantastic by comparison.
Picture
Equilateral Triangle Quilt from EQ4 (redone in EQ8)
After the unboxing, I saw that my plan was to use a variety of plaid fabrics for my quilt.  Since I really don't need a huge quilt, I decided to remake a smaller version and also test out some coloring options using plaid fabrics.

EQ has an entire collection of plaid fabrics in the EQ8 fabric library -- just look under "Themes - 02 Plaids".  Even though those aren't exact matches to the fabrics I will be using in my quilt, it will give me a better feel for the look of the quilt.

Here is an option using a variety of blue plaids for the stars and greens for the larger diamonds.  This is fairly close to the original plan.  Other than I swapped out a variety of tans for the gold/tan print in the quilt.
Picture
I then thought I would try an option where I nixed the green.  The diamond block was replaced with another star block.

I am really torn on how to proceed.  Or I could color the diamonds in the top quilt with a blue rather than green.  What do you think?
Picture
Here is my quilt top.  Not perfect  --  but finished at last weeks quilt retreat.
Picture
Kari's Two Blocks in 1 Equilateral Triangle Quilt
I would love to see your Equilateral Quilt designs as well.  Fee free to post on the Learning EQ Facebook group.  If you are not a member, make sure to request membership to the group.
Equilateral Triangle Double Blocks FB Post
Here is a quilt that Dianna Carter did just this week in Modern Quilts 2 -- a Tech Know Quilters class.  This adds a number of additional techniques to what is shared in the blog post.

If you are interested in Tech Know Quilter's, you can learn more here.  

Psst -- there just may be an opportunity to join Tech Know Quiltersat the end of the webinar on Sunday and Monday.
Picture
Picture
Picture
Happy quilting.

​Kari
​

Join the On Point Quilter weekly newsletter and receive regular tips and inspiration on using Electric Quilt 8 along with the  Free 12 Top Tips for EQ8 video guide.
Picture

Shoebox Quilt Unboxing

9/17/2022

 

Transparency Quilt EQ8 Webinar Registration Now Open

Picture
Transparency quilts are those special quilts where the quilter places blocks of color within the quilt, creating an illusion of overlaying colors. 

These are often the quilts that stop us in our tracks and leave us mesmerized and wanting to continue to look at them.

But when it comes to creating our own, I have found many people feel a little overwhelmed and unsure how to work out the overlay along with the right color combinations.
​
Which is why I'm going to show you how.

Join my free Electric Quilt 8 webinar where I will take you step by step through the entire process to create your own transparency quilt.  In this live webinar, you will learn how to:  

  • ​draft a basic pieced block using EasyDraw tools and setting it into a Standard Layout.
  • choose from two different methods (one low-tech and another high-tech) to add the magic of transparency to the quilt.
  • convert your transparency quilt design into easy to piece blocks (only squares, rectangles, half square and quarter square triangle blocks).
  • color your transparency blocks using a super easy trick.
  • add your design into optional borders for your quilt.
What are you waiting for? Enroll today.

Plus you will also receive a guidebook that you will be able to use as a reference both during and after the video.  This will assist you when you're working on your project.
 
I can't wait to see your transparency quilt design.
Choose the time that works the best below and register for this amazing fun webinar.  You won't be disappointed.

​For all those that attend live, I will be offering a special bonus offer as well.  Make sure to join me.  I can't wait to see you there.

A replay will be available for 24 hours if you cannot attend live.​
Date and Time
Registration Link
Local Time
​Sunday, September 25
8 pm Central Time
Enroll
Time Zone Converter
​Monday, September 26
10 am Central Time
Enroll
Time Zone Converter
Monday, September 26
3 pm Central Time
Enroll
Time Zone Converter

Shoebox Quilt Unboxed

Do you have a closet full of shoebox quilts?  Please tell me that some of you do.  I don't want to be alone in my obsession of starting and not finishing every quilt project.

In the search for a particular fabric, I found myself opening some shoe boxes -- that had been untouched for a very long time.  Check out my unveiling of one of the boxes.  This was definitely during my "plaid" phase.
Picture
With a bit of research I found that I had purchased EQ4 on March 15, 1999 and upgrade to EQ5 of May 29, 2002.  So this quilt was probably constructed sometime around 2000.  I think I will call it my turn of the century quilt.

This really makes me appreciate the "real" fabric options in EQ8.
Next challenge was finding the tools that I used for the project (as they weren't in the shoebox).  Even back then I was really into collecting quilting rulers and tools.  But it was before my Studio 180 Design craze.

​Fortunately, I rarely get rid of rulers and I was able to locate ones that were probably used for the project.
Large diamonds were cut from 3-1/2" strips using the Easy Six tool by Sharon Hultgren.  The tool I used appears to have been replaced with the EQ Quilting 60 Degree Diamond ruler.
Picture
Large diamonds Cut from 3-1/2" strips using the Easy Six tool
Small diamonds were cut from 1-3/4" strips using the same tool.
Picture
Small diamonds cut from 3-1/2" strips using the Easy Six tool
I took apart one of the equilateral triangle segments.  There are a couple of ways to approach cutting these pieces.
Picture
Deconstruction of the pieced equilateral triangles
Approach #1  Cut equilateral triangles from 2-1/4" strips of the light plaid and parallelograms from 2" strips of the medium plaid.    Both could be cut using the Clear View Triangle ruler by Sara Nephew (one of my favorite equilateral triangle tools).
Picture
Picture
Approach #2  Strip piece 2-1/4" strips of the light plaid with 2" strips of the medium plaid.  Use the Clear View Triangle ruler and line up the bottom at 3-3/4" and cut the triangle segments.  This would definitely have much more waste,  But the ending pieces are much cleaner.  (Given the notches in my parallelograms, I suspect this may have been my approach.)  
This will give me a great start on cutting and piecing the rest of the segments during my quilt retreat this weekend.  At least that is the plan.

Next week, I will share how to draft the blocks and quilts using Electric Quilt 8.  I have an idea for a slightly different quilt that still uses the segments already completed.  So stay tuned.
Let's have a little fun.  Post a picture of a incomplete shoebox project in the designated post in the Learning EQ Facebook group.  Let us know the age of the project along with any origin information.  Did you use EQ to help with the project?

By the end of next week I will award a prize to one shoebox owner who posts in the designated location.
Post Your Shoebox Pictures Here

Tech Know Quilters Table Runner Showcase

The subject for the July TKQ Masters classes was Table Runners.  Here are a few of there quilts created during the class.  As you can see, each designer chose to do their own variation on each of the assignments.  So not only are they adding to their Electric Quilt skills, but they are also flexing their creative muscle as well.
Picture
Picture
Pat Harkins
Picture
Edith Craig
Picture
Helen Hicks
Picture
Lynne Maramieri
Picture
Curryanne Hostetler
Picture
Linda Carlson
Picture
Julie Pedersen
Picture
Lisa Walker Wallace
Picture
Brigitte lee
Picture
Mary Groesbeck
Picture
Wanda Smith Hizer
Picture
Dorotee Ilgner
Picture
Pat Harkins
Picture
Mary Groesbeck
Picture
Wanda Smith Hizer
Picture
Edith Craig
Picture
Kathleen Scargle McCormick
Picture
Curryanne Hostetler
Picture
Helen Hicks
Picture
Brigitte Lee
Picture
Pat Harkins
Picture
Julie Pedersen
Picture
Wanda Smith Hizer
Picture
Edith Craig
Picture
Curryanne Hostetler
Picture
Mary Groesbeck
Picture
Linda Carlson
Picture
Brigitte Lee
Picture
Pat Harkins
Picture
Julie Pedersen
Picture
Edith Craig
Picture
Wanda Smith Hizer
Picture
Linda Carlson
Picture
Helen Hicks
Picture
Pat Harkins
Picture
Curryanne Hostetler
Picture
Julie Pedersen
Picture
Mary Groesbeck
Picture
Dorothee Ilgner
Picture
Brigitte Lee
Picture
Edith Craig
Picture
Wanda Smith Hizer
Picture
Linda Carlson
Picture
Mary Groesbeck
Picture
Helen Hicks
Picture
Debbi Treusch
Picture
Pat Harkins
Picture
Brigitte Lee
Picture
Julie Pedersen
Tech Know Quilters members are eligible for the Masters program after completing 12 months of Tech Know Quilter classes.  Masters members receive fewer lessons each month, with more time to devote to their own projects and challenges.

Drop me a note if you have completed over 12 months of Tech Know Quilters and are interested in learning more about the Masters program.
​
You can learn more about the regular Tech Know Quilters membership program and sign up for the wait list for the next open enrollment period here.
Picture
​Happy quilting.

​Kari
​
Join the On Point Quilter weekly newsletter and receive regular tips and inspiration on using Electric Quilt 8 along with the  Free 12 Top Tips for EQ8 video guide.
Picture

Falling Leaves Quilt

9/10/2022

 

Register for Free Live EQ8 Webinar on September 25 or 26

Picture
​​Transparency quilts are those special quilts where the quilter places blocks of color within the quilt, creating an illusion of overlaying colors. 

These are often the quilts that stop us in our tracks and leave us mesmerized and wanting to continue to look at them.

But when it comes to creating our own, I have found many people feel a little overwhelmed and unsure how to work out the overlay along with the right color combinations.
​
Which is why I'm going to show you how.

Join my free Electric Quilt 8 webinar where I will take you step by step through the entire process to create your own transparency quilt.  In this live webinar, you will learn how to:  

  • ​draft a basic pieced block using EasyDraw tools and setting it into a Standard Layout.
  • choose from two different methods (one low-tech and another high-tech) to add the magic of transparency to the quilt.
  • convert your transparency quilt design into easy to piece blocks (only squares, rectangles, half square and quarter square triangle blocks).
  • color your transparency blocks using a super easy trick.
  • add your design into optional borders for your quilt.

What are you waiting for? Enroll today.

Plus you will also receive a guidebook that you will be able to use as a reference both during and after the video.  This will assist you when you're working on your project.
 
I can't wait to see your transparency quilt design.
Choose the time that works the best below and register for this amazing fun webinar.  You won't be disappointed.

​For all those that attend live, I will be offering a special bonus offer as well.  Make sure to join me.  I can't wait to see you there.

A replay will be available for 24 hours if you cannot attend live.​
Date and Time
Registration Link
Local Time
​Sunday, September 25
8 pm Central Time
Enroll
Time Zone Converter
Monday, September 26
10 am Central Time
Enroll
Time Zone Converter
Monday, September 26
3 pm Central Time
Enroll
Time Zone Converter

Falling Leaves Quilt

​This is a continuation on using Accuquilt dies in a quilt.  If you missed the first part of this series, see how to create individual perfectly sized motifs that match those that are created with the Accuquilt dies here.

In the tutorial today, see an option for setting the leaves from these dies in a quilt.
Here is the quilt from the video.  Do you have some fun fall fabrics to make this quilt?
Picture
Kari's Falling Leaves Quilt using Accuquilt Dies
Here are a few quilts designed by EQ users and shared on social media this week.
Picture
Mary Groesbeck Wall Hanging
Picture
Elizabeth Barnett (this table topper was done with adjusted sizes)
Picture
Margo Reppert Personal Accuquilt design from the Tech Know Quilters Specialty Rulers and Dies class.

Tech Know Quilters Showcase

Tech Know Quilter members shared some of their favorite projects (along with their own designs) from their July class.  You can learn more and sign up for the wait list to join this amazing group of designers here.
Picture
Nanne Panne This quilt we made this month is really great! I have learned so much as usual!!! Love the flying geese!!!!
Picture
Lee Wiencki I was trying Arabic geometric pattern designing as a block in EQ8.
Picture
Shawn Spjut While we learned a lot of cool stuff in polydraw, these blocks are my favorite.
Picture
Lynne Maramieri My class this month was Advanced EasyDraw. This quilt is a favourite.
Picture
Rhonda Goss Masters table topper class
Picture
Dotty Smalley Here is my Table Runner from the TKQ Masters Table Runners class. As always, I learned a lot in this class, including how to use "cheater" strips and blocks to achieve the look of a table runner with pointed ends. I also added binding "cheater" blocks. These are mostly Kaffe Fassett fabrics.
Picture
Linda Carlson I took the Masters Table Runner class. Here is one of the several we designed.
Picture
Loronda Schuler I just had fun creating my alphabet using things I learned in the free tutorial but also from other tutorials from Kari as I had to create some additional blocks to make some of the letters. I also added an exclamation and question mark to my alphabet □
Picture
Frauke Frieboes Here is my favourite quilt. It was created after lesson 13 (Easy Draw; Serendipity). This lesson taught me how to play, because in the meantime I feel confident to deal with the functions of the program and get more freedom to try and repeat things. That's the most important thing to me. To be able to repeat it and not to come to a nice result by chance. I think the Merge Block function was the decisive trigger for me to see how much the program offers me when I use it. Thank you for the wonderful explanations in simple language dear Kari!
Picture
Zdenka Nemethová In July I enjoyed Quilt Layouts Class. Baby quilt layout was my favourite
Picture
Zdenka Nemethová One Patch Layout was also fun. Thanks Kari for these great lessons
Picture
Brigitte Lee I took the Master's Tablerunner and TKQ Advanced Easy Draw. Here is the result of several classes combined.
Picture
Nancy Kiley I participated in TKQ Mix and Match Medallions Borders in July. Here's my favorite quilt that I made with a little playtime I had in July (I was working on finishing my state fair quilt entry). I enjoyed designing this quilt after Lesson 6 Frame Illusions. The best part of the borders class is expanding my creativity from quilt centers to the borders.
Picture
Marijke Nieuwenhuijsen This is my quilt for the month July. It was nice to place the embellishment in EQ8.
Picture
Helen Bagnall Month One, Fabric Collections - This first month helped me overcome my inertia caused by not knowing how to move around EQ8 and what to do to start a design. Thank you.
Picture
Julie Pedersen I took the Masters table runner class. Here is my creation.
Picture
Curryanne Hostetler here was my finish of Table Runners. And favorite play.
Picture
Fran Heisey This month I took the Master Table Runner class.
Picture
Debbi Treusch The table runner class got me motivated to finish a wall calendar of the month series where I lost the June, July and August patterns. I did just the June pattern for this challenge. June in Iowa is strawberry season, so the design is centered around a theme of strawberries. Strawberry smoothie block, strawberry applique and strawberry fields fabric collection.
Picture

Picture
Happy quilting.

​Kari
​

Join the On Point Quilter weekly newsletter and receive regular tips and inspiration on using Electric Quilt 8 along with the  Free 12 Top Tips for EQ8 video guide.
Picture

Using Free EQ8 Die Collections for Accuquilt

9/3/2022

 
Did you know that Electric Quilt has a wonderful collection of Accuquilt dies -- at no charge? You can download them from the Do you EQ website.  Here is a link to their post.  

I will share my suggestions for downloading them into EQ8 (if they aren't already in your block library).

I will also share with you my process for turning these stencils into very usable applique motifs within EQ8.

The key is to make sure that you understand and maintain the size of each of the elements (whether you are adding to a block or the quilt). 

Moving Beyond the Free Downloads

The one downside of the Accuquilt download collections is that they are older and don't include the latest and greatest Accuquilt dies.  

In Tech Know Quilters, a membership for mastery of Electric Quilt 8, there is a class focused on Specialty Rulers and Dies -- and yes that includes Accuquilt.   So if you own dies that aren't in the free download (or are thinking about getting them) -- this class is for you.
Picture
Specialty Ruler and Dies -- Some of the Class Projects
In Lesson 8 you will learn how to incorporate applique dies that are not part of the free EQ8 library in your quilt design.  Here are the sample projects from that lesson.
Picture
Picture
In Lessons 9, 10 and 11 you will solve the mystery of designing for the Go Qube dies.  In Lesson 9 you will create a patch for every Go Qube shape -- at the correct finished sizes.  Then in Lesson 10 you will learn to combine those patches to create original blocks.  It will be just like putting together a jigsaw puzzle.  So much fun!
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
In Lesson 11 you will learn how to created original designs that incorporate patches from more than one GoQube collection.
Picture
Picture
And if you get stuck, we can work through it together during a help session.  Just last week we tackled those Wedding Ring templates during one of our regular Zoom meetings.
Learn more about Tech Know Quilters, and sign up for the wait list here.

Diamonds Class Projects

The subject for the June TKQ Masters classes was Diamonds.  In this series of lessons, there were blocks that converted to diamonds based on the selected layout along with those that converted a diamond shaped block to work not only in a custom set layout but in a standard layout as well. 

TKQ Masters members were super imaginative as they not only completed the lessons, but added their own creativity to the designs.  Here is just a sample of the submitted quilts in the TKQ Facebook group.
Picture
Mary Groesbeck
Picture
Julie Pedersen
Picture
Linda Carlson
Picture
Marlu Allan
Picture
Pat Harkins
Picture
Curryanne Hostetler
Picture
Holly Wilson
Picture
Edith Craig
Picture
Lisa Walker Wallace
Picture
Marlu Allan
Picture
Mary Groesbeck
Picture
Kristy Soard
Picture
Pat Harkins
Picture
Fran Heisey
Picture
Dorothee Ilgner
Picture
Curryanne Hostetler
Picture
Julie Pedersen
Picture
Fran Heisey
Picture
Wanda Hizer
Picture
Helen Hicks
Picture
Helen Hicks
Picture
Lynne Maramieri
Picture
Lisa Walker Wallace
Picture
Edith Craig
Picture
Fran Heisey
Picture
Mary Groesbeck
Picture
Dorothee Ilgner
Picture
Edith Craig
Picture
Linda Carlson
Picture
Helen Hicks
Picture
Lynne Maramieri
Picture
Kristy Goodin Soard
Picture
Wanda Smith Hizer
Tech Know Quilters members are eligible for the Masters program after completing 12 months of Tech Know Quilter classes.  Masters members receive fewer lessons each month, with more time to devote to their own projects and challenges.

Drop me a note if you have completed over 12 months of Tech Know Quilters and are interested in learning more about the Masters program.
​
You can learn more about the regular Tech Know Quilters membership program and sign up for the wait list for the next open enrollment period here.

Picture
Happy quilting.

​Kari
​

Join the On Point Quilter weekly newsletter and receive regular tips and inspiration on using Electric Quilt 8 along with the  Free 12 Top Tips for EQ8 video guide.
Picture

Are You Ready to Design Your Own Quilts using Electric Quilt 8

9/3/2022

 
I remember agonizing over my first purchase of Electric Quilt.  I loved quilting and had a ton of patterns and books – more than I could ever use in my lifetime.  Can you relate? 
 
I wasn’t completely convinced I needed the software.  However, I also realized that those purchased patterns were not always accurate and there were quilts that I saw in magazines and at shows that did not have patterns.  And I didn't necessarily want to make an exact replica of the quilts from patterns I had bought.
​ 
Once I started using the software, I knew I couldn’t live without it.  I quickly found that I recouped my investment in the software through significantly fewer PIGS (projects in grocery sacks).  You know those quilts that you thought would be your next masterpiece.  But as you got started piecing them, you realized something wasn’t quite right. 

I knew from my own struggles that the initial purchase of Electric Quilt 8 can be a challenging decision.  As a result, I want to help you resolve whether the software will be useful for you.
​ 
In this blog post I will be sharing with you:
  • The top six reasons to purchase EQ8
  • Three reasons why not

Six Reasons to Purchase Electric Quilt 8 ​ 

After purchasing Electric Quilt and working with it (and teaching others how to use it), I've come to realize that Electric Quilt 8 is hands down the best tool I have purchased for creating both blocks and quilts. 

Full disclosure.  I use it personally, but I also teach people how to get the best use of the program.  I am pretty sure you know which side of the fence I will come down on. 
 
But I want you to go into this with your eyes open.  So I will also be sharing some of the objections to buying…to help you make the right decision for you.

#1 - Audition Your Favorite Fabrics 

When is the last time you bought a pattern because you loved the quilt on the cover?  And then realized that the fabric is no longer available.  Or maybe it doesn't work well with the other colors in the room you are hoping to use the quilt in. If you have trouble visualizing what your favorite fabrics will look like in your quilt pattern, you are perfectly normal.

Before Electric Quilt, I lost count of the number of times I purchased some fabulous fabrics, cut them up and realized (after the point of no return) they wouldn’t work with my selected quilt pattern. 

With Electric Quilt 8 you have the option to audition fabrics before your first cut.  This can even be done before spending money on fabric.
  • ​​The EQ8 Fabric Library comes pre-loaded with 6,200 fabrics from top manufacturers!  This may look intimidating.  But don’t worry.  The fabric library is well organized and very easy to use.​​
Picture
  • Add a Stash fabric download from Electric Quilt which provides images of some of the newest fabrics on the market.  
  • You can also add fabrics from the web! Download fabric images from a website, then import into EQ8.
  • You can even scan or photograph your fabric and import into EQ8. 

#2 - Never Manually Calculate Fabric Yardage Requirements Again

One of my favorite features of Electric Quilt 8 is the ability to obtain fabric yardage requirements with a push of a button.  If you use fabric from the Electric Quilt library, it even will provide you with a fabric reference number to assist you in purchasing the fabric at your favorite quilt shop.
​
Bonus:  A new feature in Electric Quilt 8 is the option of printing the number of Fat Quarters needed for your quilt.  
Picture

#3 - Modify Blocks and Quilts from Purchased Patterns

Have you purchased a pattern and realized there are things you would like to change? Maybe the block needs to be tweaked to use your favorite ruler or die set.  Or maybe the sizes or layout needs to be adjusted so the quilt can work for your bed -- and then of course you need to adjust the yardage requirements to accommodate the new size.

Good news!  Electric Quilt 8 has three different sets of tools for drawing your own blocks or redrafting a block from a picture. ​

​EasyDraw tools are similar to working with graph paper and pencil, just like you use to do. ​
Picture
And if you want to draw a more complex design, PolyDraw tools also allows you to create pieced blocks that are not based on a standard graph paper type of grid.   Think circular or kaleidoscope types of designs.  
Picture
If you are into hexagonal quilts, PolyDraw also provides us the ability to create interlocking blocks.  ​
Picture
And if you love applique, you will definitely be interested in the applique toolkit.  I have not found an applique project that cannot be drafting using Electric Quilt 8.
Picture
However, before starting to draft your own block, you may want to check if your block is in the Electric Quilt block library.  With the release of EQ8, Electric Quilt added 1400 new bocks to their already extensive library.  Giving us a total of 6500 blocks to choose from for starting our next quilt.

But if you cannot locate your favorite block in the library, there is no need to worry.  There is the option to import a picture of the block and trace it.  This is probably my all time favorite feature of Electric Quilt 8.  This is an area I love working with Electric Quilt users on and an area of focus in Tech Know Quilters - a paid membership program for Electric Quilt 8 users.

There are also options to add more blocks to the library through collections such as as Block Base Plus based on Barbara Brackman's Encyclopedia of Pieced Quilt Patterns.  Choose from collections by Judy Martin, Marsha McCloskey or even Dear Jane.   And the beauty is that all of these blocks will be able to be modified by you within Electric Quilt 8.   
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Within Electric Quilt 8, they even have added a group of Serendipity tools that provides a fast way to create entirely new blocks based on a previously drafted block.  I find this is a great option for creating brand new original quilt blocks on days I am not feeling super creative.​
Picture

#4 - Select Your Favorite Construction Method

Many potential Electric Quilt 8 users wondering if the software will assist them in constructing their block.  Electric Quilt does assume that users are familiar with basic quilt construction techniques.  The software will not teach you how to applique, foundation piece or even piece together rotary cut patches.  It will also not provide you step by step instructions typically found in a purchased quilt pattern.

However it will provide you with a variety of tools to facilitate cutting fabric and even the foundations to paper piece your blocks.  The method of construction is your choice.
Here is an example of a typical  Electric Quilt 8 rotary cutting chart for a block colored in the fabrics of your choice.
Picture
Electric Quilt 8 will also provide you the foundations (assuming your pattern is foundation friendly).  You also have the option to section and number yourself if you would prefer a different set of foundations.
Picture
For every block there is always an option to produce templates -- with or without seam allowances..
Picture

#5 - Save Money
​

All it takes is two quilts that didn't come out as you had envisioned them to recoup the cost of purchasing Electric Quilt 8. Maybe just one at the current price of fabric.

And think about how much less fabric you will need to purchase when you can design your entire quilt complete with fabrics before investing.

And if you have shelves filled with fabric, you can design with the fabrics on your shelves and start working through that large stash.  That may also make other members of your household happy.

#6 –Support

Electric Quilt 8 has an incredible reference manual with great instructions and illustrations -- all available in the help section of the program.  There are also some decent getting started videos on the EQ website.  Along with hundreds of free videos in my blog posts (onpointquilter.com) and on YouTube.  Electric Quilt's support for EQ8 users is second to none.  
 
The challenge many new users to Electric Quilt 8 experience is that because there is so much functionality with the program it is easy to become overwhelmed.   If you purchase Electric Quilt 8, you should plan on time to get comfortable with the software. 

Frankly it is because of this I have created a variety of well-structured training programs for Electric Quilt 8 users.  I know how quilters learn best and I know the things to learn first -- to ensure long term success with the program. 

Summary of top Reasons to Purchase

Electric Quilt 8 is fantastic for:
  1. Auditioning your favorite fabrics in your quilts (before making them)
  2. Push of a button fabric yardage charts
  3. Ability to draft and modify any quilt block from a purchased pattern
  4. The option of selecting your favorite construction method
  5. Saving money on fabric purchases.
  6. Support once you have purchased the software.
​
But of course you know there are also reasons why it may not be a great fit   Because obviously it can’t be a good fit for every quilter. Next, I will now go into the reasons it may not be a good fit for you.   

Reasons Buying Electric Quilt 8 May Not Be Right for You

#1 - You Want to Do All Your Quilt Designing on a Tablet or Phone

Picture
You may enjoy perusing Pinterest and watching You Tube videos on your tablet or phone and would love to be able to design your quilts on your phone or tablet.  

EQ8 will not run on Chromebooks or any devices running Android or iOS. EQ8 requires one of the following Windows or Mac operating systems:  
  • Windows 11, Windows 10, Windows 8.1, or Windows 7 with Service Pack 1
  • macOS Monterey (12), Big Sur (11) Intel and M1 processors, Catalina (10.15), Mojave (10.14), High Sierra (10.13)

#2 - You Enjoy Creating Quilts from Kits

Many quilters love purchasing quilts and are very comfortable making them exactly as laid out in the quilt.  If most of your quilts are from kits, there is probably not a need for Electric Quilt 8 -- unless you decide to modify the kit (or find a problem with the instructions in the kit or pattern).

#3 - You Love Designing with Graph Paper

Do you find that you enjoy designing with graph paper and colored pencils and enjoy figuring out the math for your quilt blocks and quilts?   I know of a number of professional quilt designers who still enjoy using graph paper and pencils to create their blocks and quilts.

I have found that graph paper can be a decent solution when all your blocks are comprised of squares, rectangles and half square triangles.   And you are comfortable calculating your own rotary cutting and fabric yardage calculations.  And you are good with selecting fabric based on your colored pencil renditions of your blocks and quilt. 
 
If this is you, EQ8 is not necessary.   However even if you love designing with graph paper, you my find that sometimes you get stuck.  And do you really enjoy doing all those calculations by hand all of the time? Sometimes it is so much easier relying on the software to take the tedium out of the design process so you can focus on the parts your truly enjoy.   If graph paper and colored pencils are not providing the results you desire, Electric Quilt 8 may provide you with so much more.

Summary

Now that I have summed up the top reasons to purchase along with some reasons not to, I hope I have provided clarity on what is best for you. 
  
Honestly, I believe that the reasons to purchase are much stronger than those not to purchase.  Although it is not right for everybody, it is a great tool for many quilters.

If you are ready to purchase, I would like to provide you with some bonuses if you decide to purchase through my affiliate link below.  

Affiliate Link Bonus #1 Goose Goose Duck Challenge Material

  • Goose Goose Duck Video Series – Video series covering creation of six different pieced “goose and duck blocks using Electric Quilt 8 along a number of layouts.
  • 12 Goose Goose Duck patterns
  • 7 Sampler Quilt Patterns
  • Kari’s Goose Goose Duck Electric Quilt 8 project file with 35 blocks and 19 quilts.
Picture
Picture
This bonus is only available if you purchase through the affiliate link.

Affiliate Link Bonus #2 Spring Fever Challenge Material

  • Spring Fever Video Series – Video series covering creation of seven original foundation friendly blocks plus related quilt.
  • Kari’s Spring Fever EQ8 project file.
Picture
Picture
Picture
This bonus is only available if you purchase through the affiliate link.

Ready to Purchase Electric Quilt 8?

Just click on the picture, enter your name and email and you will receive my affiliate link to purchase Electric Quilt on the Electric Quilt website.​  Then watch for a follow up email from me where I will ask you for your purchase info.

Electric Quilt currently has a sale going on (25% off everything in their store).  Now through November 30, 2022.   So now is a great time to make the investment in EQ8. 
Picture

Picture
Kari

Not quite ready to purchase.  Join the On Point Quilter weekly newsletter and receive regular tips and inspiration on using Electric Quilt 8 along with the  Free 12 Top
Tips for EQ8 video guide.
Picture
    Picture
    Picture
    Picture
    Free guide available for newsletter subscribers
    Picture
    Picture
    Picture

    Kari Schell

    Electric Quilt Expert and Educator and Pattern Designer.

    Categories

    All
    Art And Stitch
    Cricut Maker
    Dear Jane
    Electric Quilt 7
    Electric Quilt 8
    Goose Goose Duck Challenge
    Inkscape
    Longarm Quilting
    Patterns
    Silhouette Cameo
    Stampin Up
    Summer Games
    Tips And Techniques
    Tools And Rulers

    Archives

    March 2023
    February 2023
    January 2023
    December 2022
    November 2022
    October 2022
    September 2022
    August 2022
    July 2022
    June 2022
    May 2022
    April 2022
    March 2022
    February 2022
    January 2022
    December 2021
    November 2021
    October 2021
    September 2021
    August 2021
    July 2021
    June 2021
    May 2021
    April 2021
    March 2021
    February 2021
    January 2021
    December 2020
    November 2020
    October 2020
    September 2020
    August 2020
    July 2020
    June 2020
    May 2020
    April 2020
    March 2020
    February 2020
    January 2020
    December 2019
    November 2019
    October 2019
    September 2019
    August 2019
    July 2019
    June 2019
    May 2019
    April 2019
    March 2019
    February 2019
    January 2019
    December 2018
    November 2018
    October 2018
    September 2018
    August 2018
    July 2018
    June 2018
    May 2018
    April 2018
    March 2018
    February 2018
    January 2018
    December 2017
    November 2017
    October 2017
    September 2017
    August 2017
    July 2017
    June 2017
    May 2017
    April 2017
    March 2017
    February 2017
    January 2017
    December 2016
    November 2016
    October 2016
    September 2016
    August 2016
    July 2016
    June 2016
    May 2016
    April 2016
    March 2016
    February 2016
    January 2016
    December 2015
    November 2015
    October 2015
    September 2015
    August 2015
    July 2015
    June 2015
    May 2015
    April 2015
    March 2015
    February 2015
    January 2015
    December 2014
    November 2014
    October 2014
    September 2014
    July 2014
    June 2014
    May 2014
    April 2014
    March 2014
    February 2014
    January 2014
    December 2013
    November 2013
    October 2013
    September 2013
    August 2013

    RSS Feed

Contact:
On Point Quilter
e-mail:  onpointquilter@comcast.net
phone:  763-566-6536

GET MY NEWSLETTER FOR REGULAR EQ AWESOMENESS!

* indicates required
  • Blog
  • About
  • EQ Training
    • Tech Know Quilters Electric Quilt 8 Membership Training
    • Shoot for the Stars with EQ8
    • Electric Quilt 8 Sneak Peek
    • Scheduling a Workshop or Lecture
  • Store
  • Card Making
  • Contact
  • Free Stuff
    • Other Video Tutorials