ON POINT QUILTER
  • Blog
  • About
  • EQ8 Training
    • Tech Know Quilters Electric Quilt 8 Membership Training
    • EQ8 Made Easy
    • Electric Quilt 8 Sneak Peek
  • Store
  • Contact
Picture

No Sew Fabric Card using EQ8 and BlockBase+

9/14/2024

 
As I see new card making ideas on various blogs and on You Tube, I love being able to use concepts from these sources of inspiration and create my own design using Electric Quilt. 

Creating a card layout in Electric Quilt 8 is an easy way to provide yourself information for cutting various elements of the cards. 

And you can also include photos of the inspirational cards in EQ as well.  Which can be helpful in remembering the source if I want to refer back to either the block or the video.

As I was looking at a card this week,  I noticed that they included a square with a basic quilt block design. 

For the quilt block they cut out the squares and rectangles using Designer Series Paper (DSP).
Picture
Inspirational Card from Tams These Are My Stamps
Super simple.

But what if we could do even more complex quilt blocks?

And what if we used fabric instead of DSP for the quilt block?


​I decided to explore these ideas in this blog post.

What is BlockBase+

For my greeting card, rather than designing my own quilt block, I decided to use a block from BlockBase Plus.
Block Base Plus is a program created by the Electric Quilt Company and is based Barbara Brackman's  Encyclopedia of Pieced Quilt Patterns. 

This book is the perfect resource for identifying 4000+ historic blocks plus the names and publishing information. 


 Barbara’s decades of research is available to you in this organized and user-friendly software for Windows and Mac computers. Packed with complete publication information for each block, robust search features, exporting and printing capabilities — it’s the perfect quilting tool for all skill levels! The same patterns that sold for 15¢ in 1928 are now yours for less than 3¢ each! 
Learn More About BlockBase+

Creating a Card Layout in EQ8

Learn how to create  the basic card layout as a combo block -- EasyDraw Plus Applique.

I love using Applique for my layout design, as I can always refer back to the design in EQ to know the exact size for all the elements in the card design.

When creating my cardmaking templates in EQ8, I also will include my cutting instructions on a printed copy of my design.
Picture
Card Front Template 4-1/4" x 5-1/2" Designed in EQ8
Picture
Cutting Chart for Card

Locating a Leaf Block in Block Base Plus and Recoloring in EQ8

Since I am currently working on Autumn/Thanksgiving cards for friends and families, I decided to incorporate a leaf block in my card.

A quick search in BlockBase+ yielded a number of possibilities. 

While I didn't love the coloring of the Maple Leaf from Aunt Martha Studios, I liked the block itself and thought that it might be fun using Grunge fabric. 

And of course I have some grunge scraps sitting on my cutting table -- just waiting to be used.
Picture
Block 1740 found in BlockBase+ Search for "leaf"
Here is the block recolored in Grunge Fabric in Electric Quilt 8.

By combining BlockBase+ and Electric Quilt 8, you can take advantage of the already drafted blocks in BlockBase+ plus the fabric and coloring tools of EQ8.
Picture
Maple Leaf Recolored with Grunge Fabrics in EQ8

Creating a Quilt Incorporating Both the Block and the Design Template

Finish off the design, by creating a quilt that incorporates both the card template and the recolored block from BlockBase+.
Picture
Final Card Making Template in EQ8

Use the SVG Export Feature in BlockBase+ and an Electronic Cutting System to Cut out the Patches for the Maple Leaf block

Electric Quilt 8 does not have an SVG export feature -- but BlockBase+ does.

In the video, you will see how to export your SVG from Block Base+.

Then upload to Cricut Design Space -- the electronic cutting system I currently use.
Picture
In Cricut Design Space you can recolor your patches from the SVG export.  While you cannot exactly match your fabrics, you can use a similar color to allow for the automatic assignment of your patches to the correct cutting mats.

​Once you select Make, you can see the cutting mats for each color.
Picture
You can reorganize the cutting mats to consolidate the patches for cutting.

For example, I moved the gold patches to fit in a 2" x 2" square.

Cut a 2" x 2" piece of gold Grunge fabric.

Iron a 2" x 2" piece of Steam a Seam 2 to the back of the Grunge fabric.

Remove the second Steam a Seam 2 backing piece and place on the Cutting Mat.

Select the fabric type (fusible cotton).

Insert the appropriate cutting blade.

​Cut the patches.
Cut a 3" x 3" square of cardstock.

Place all of the fused Grunge patches on the cardstock.  

Do not iron until all the patches are perfectly placed. 

​The fusible will temporarily hold the patches in place until you have them exactly where you want them and completely covering the square of cardstock.

Iron to permanently attach the patches to the square.
Picture
Picture
Create the remainder of the card using the template as a guide. 

Use Stampin Dimensionals on the back of the 3" pieced block -- to emphasize the pieced block as the star element of the card.

​Consider adding additional elements from your cardmaking supplies.

Also create the inside of the card using white cardstock (measuring 4" x 5-1/4".

Picture
Front of No Sew Fabric Card
Picture
Inside of No Sew Fabric Card
My card uses a number of new Stampin Up Products including:
Picture
Changing Leaves Bundle from Stampln Up
Picture
Autumn Expressing Stamp Set from Stampin Up
If you would like to purchase any Stampin Up products (including those above), feel free to use my Host Code TKS42RY6 during September 2024 and receive a surprise gift from me.  I will receive a commission on products purchase with this host code.
Check out the video to see the No Sew Fabric Card process in more detail.
This would be so fun to personalize with a different block. 

I would love to see your card design -- and your finished card. 

​Fabric cards are so much faster to put together than an actual quilt.  :)

Share pictures of your design (and completed cards) in the Learning EQ Facebook group.
No Sew Fabric Card Post on Learning EQ Facebook Group
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

Window Die Cut Design - From EQ to a Handmade Card

6/10/2023

 
My latest hobby has been making my own greeting cards.  This week I came across a design that had a window frame that overlayed a landscape image.  I began thinking about how I could do something similar using Electric Quilt 8.  I wanted to be able to cut the design out on an electronic cutting system.  For me that meant incorporating Cricut Design Space and my Cricut Maker.
In the video, I will take you through my process.  At a high level:
  • The design was drawn as an applique motif in Electric Quilt 8.
  • In Electric Quilt, the design was printed to a pdf writer as an outline drawing.
  • The design was imported into Inkscape**, where fold lines were added and the design was converted and saved as an SVG.
  • The SVG image was uploaded to Cricut Design Space.  In Cricut Design Space the card base was created and merged with the frame design.
**What is Inkscape?

The extra piece of software I used for creating the SVGs is Inkscape.  Inkscape is a professional vector graphics editor for Windows, Mac OS X and Linux. It's free and open source. 

Inkscape can seem overwhelming to use when you open it for the first time. However you only need to use a couple of tools within Inkscape -- so this really is a piece of cake. You can download Inkscape here.

Inkscape will allow you to create an SVG file which may be used in any electronic cutting system (Cricut Design Space, Silhouette Studio, or Brother Canvas Workspace).

So what is an SVG file?  An SVG file is a graphics file that uses a two-dimensional vector graphic format.  Unlike raster formats such as JPG, GIF, and PNG, an SVG image remains crisp and clear at any resolution or size.  My Translation -- Much cleaner of an image than any trace in a cutting system.
The video is broken into three parts (in case you don't want to watch the entire video):
  • Part 1 (.33) Electric Quilt 8
  • Part 2 (4.17) Inkscape
  • ​Part 3 (7.00) Cricut Design Space

Window Card Construction

Step 1:  Cut out the Window Frame svg on your electronic cutting system.
Picture
Picture
Step 2:  Cut out the card front with the foldable window frame on your electronic cutting system.  I used the Cricut Maker to score the left and right edges and cut the rest of the SVG.
Picture
Picture
Step 3:  Fold back along score lines and press with a bone folder.
Step 4:  Glue black frames to card front.
Picture
Picture
Step 5:  Select a background.  Trim to 3-1/4" x 4-3/4",  Glue to back of card front.  I was thinking that if you had a fun landscape photo from a trip, it might be nice to use that instead.
Picture
May 2023 Paper Pumpkin from Stampin Up card bases
Picture
Trimmed from Paper Pumpkin card base
Step 6:  Cut a card base using Black cardstock 8-1/2" x 5-1/4".  Score at 4-1/4".
Step 7:  Glue card front to card base.
Picture
Picture
Step 8:  Add greetings and embellishments.
  • Greeting
  • Binoculars (from the Paper Pumpkin kit)
  • Metallic Pearls (for opening the windows)
Picture
Picture
Step 9:  Create inside panel for card.  Stamped items from Paper Pumpkin kit.
Picture
Let me know if you use Electric Quilt 8 for uses other than quilting?  I love hearing how you are using the software.
Window Dies for Cardmaking Learning EQ Facebook Post

Tech Know Quilters Showcase

Current Tech Know Quilter members have been sharing their class projects along with their original designs (and in some cases quilts) in the membership's private Facebook group.  Enjoy this show of some of their recent creations.

You can learn more about the Tech Know Quilters membership program and sign up for the wait list for the next open enrollment period here.
Picture
Pat Norrad EQ Design
Picture
Pat Norrad Finished Quilt
Pad Norrad     My very dear Aunt and Uncle, who are in the mid 80's, asked if I could repair their favorite quilt they've had for over 40yrs. It wasn't repairable so I said it would be easier to just make them a new one. OMGoodness - what did I just say, LOL Along with my EQ8 Program, I also enjoy Digitizing. I put the two together and was able to create my pattern in EQ8 and Digitize the Embroidery needed to go into each of the blocks. I took the Advance Border Design Class (along with many others) and thank goodness I did. I've learned a lot more than I thought I would; thank you Kari Schell. In the end, this is a Bedspread that is quilted, not your usual quilt. I've decided I would make the Pillow Shams that match. 
Picture
Margo Reppert I'm rather pleased with my Jacobean Challenge.
Picture
Joan Sledge Webb This is a quilt I designed using fabric colors from my grandson's wedding.
Ann Cornett Horsley -- One block used in five different layouts.  Playing around.
Picture
Picture
Pat Norrad EQ8 Design
Picture
Pat Norrad Quilt
Pat Norrad​ We were given Challenge to only use two colors to make a project. The two crayons I pulled from a brown paper bag was Brown and Orange (go figure). We could have a cream, white or black background. I created this Quilt using the Storm at Sea block with shades of the two colors.
Picture
Connie Bobcik My Gees Bend quilt
Picture
Connie Bobcik One of my horizontal quilts.
Picture
Connie Bobcik - One of my Log Cabin 3D Quilts
Picture
Connie Bobcik - My Fractured Background quilt.
Picture
Pat Norrad EQ8 Design
Picture
Pat Norrad Quilt Top
Pat Norrad This is another quilt I just finished. It is a Grad Quilt for our next door neighbor's daughter. We've good neighbors for 19 yrs and have watched their 3 children grow up. Their daughter finally got her wish to have her 'own' dog and she is just crazy over this dog. I drew the pattern in EQ8 and I'm so glad I did. 
Picture
Cindy Meyer I've called this "Where the Stars Go" because it reminds me of a black hole. The fabrics were downloaded from a website and, of course, I purchased those fabrics to make this quilt. I've printed the foundations but still playing with the borders before I begin.
Picture
Edith Craig My class this month was Masters Hexies and More. I used the concepts from this class, some of the blocks we drafted in class, and used a different layout template from the Layout Library. The combination of various blocks made a striking layout and shows how varied a quilt can look using only a couple of blocks.
Picture
Maureen Pinwill
I have been working on a quilt for the past few years which involves a great deal of simple embroidery along the whole border of a king size quilt, so much of this hand embroidery has been undertaken by hand either whilst watching tv or when I wake up, usually at about 4 - 4.30 am. The patchwork pieces are tiny and quite traditional but all the pieces are the same along the top and sides of the quilt. It has lots of small embroidery decorations that are mirrored on top to bottom and also side from side. So I had to ensure that everything was pieced in the correct order. All the top blocks are joined together and then a backing will be placed when all the tops have been joined. I only have three more blocks to finish and only then can I start back the quilt sew the quilting top and put the border on. I hope to get it finished for my daughter's next wedding anniversary in March 2024.  The next time I approached a quilt of this nature I will use my Artista Designer Plus Embroidery program to do so, as I am sure it would have been completed much earlier if I had taken the time and trouble to put the design in that program. Although I do use embroidery to meditate so it has given me many, many hours of peace and calm 
Picture
Picture
Picture
Helen Warwick EQ Quilt
Picture
Picture
Helen Warwick Foundation pattern
Helen Warwick Drafted in EQ8 for foundation paper piecing. The original Java Twist was not foundation paper pieced and my friend could not get any of the blocks to come out the correct size by following the directions. I suggested trying to draft it as a foundation paper pieced block and she knew how to do foundation paper piecing, but not how to draft them. This is what I came up with. I learned a lot in the foundation paper piecing lessons from Kari. The quilt turned out beautiful.
I have a very happy friend. 
Picture
Linda Carlson This Masters Hexes and More variation came from Lesson 5. What looks like white pin dots on blue is actually a stripe fabric turned on the diagonal. It was a good class!
Picture
Joan Sledge Webb I'm expecting my first Great Grandchild in September. I wanted to make a scrappy quilt using the It's A Boy collection by Riley Blake. Took me a few tries but I did get the pieced border to line up and I'm pretty happy with it. I might change some of the fabrics before I start on the quilt but it's a start.
Picture
Rhonda Goss Masters Hexie class quilt
Picture
Julie Pedersen Masters Hexies N More class
Learn More About Tech Know Quilters and Sign Up for the Wait List
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

Applique From EQ8 to Cricut Silhouette or Brother Scan N Cut

12/10/2022

 
Scroll down for information on creating cut images from EQ8 applique.  But first -- check out a new live webinar happening right after Christmas.

Register for Free EQ8 Webinar after Christmas

Turn Your Next Panel into a One of a Kind Quilt

Picture
How many times have you purchased (on contemplated purchasing) a panel and then struggled what to do with it?  Obviously you  can slap on a couple of straight borders, add a bit of basic quilting and the binding and it is ready to give away. 

But what if you want to do more?
  • Maybe you wish to personalize your panel with unique borders.
  • Or maybe you wish to cut up your panel and make it a series of blocks in your quilt.
  • Or maybe you just want a go to method for working with any panel you currently own (or plan to purchase in the future).

Let me show you how to quickly get past the overwhelm and uncertainty of working with panels. 

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

  • ​import a panel image into EQ and figure out the sizes of sections of the panel.
  • subdivide the panel image to experiment with different options for using the panel in a quilt.
  • learn how to personalize your quilt by designing coordinating blocks.
  • learn my tricks for working with those awkward sizes that always seem to happen when designing around panels.
  • learn how to create borders with multiple blocks that create flow and visual appeal.

What are you waiting for? Join us 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 panel quilt design.

​Join us now. 
​
Free Webinar Registration Information

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.​  But you must register in advance to access the replay.
Date and Time
Tuesday, December 27
10 am Central Time
Tuesday, December 27
3 pm Central Time
Tuesday, December 27
8 pm Central Time
Registration Link
Enroll
Enroll
Enroll
Local Time
Time Zone Converter
Time Zone Converter
Time Zone Converter

APPLIQUE FROM EQ8 TO CRICUT SILHOUETTE OR BROTHER SCAN N CUT

Last week I shared how to draft your own Ice Skating Motif using Electric Quilt 8.   If you want to see the power of EQ8 up close and personal (and learn more about the applique tools) you will definitely want to check out this post. 
Picture
Picture
Ice Skate Applique Motif Blog Post
In this video, I will share how to convert your EQ Applique drawing into an SVG file.  An SVG file allows you to use the images (exactly as drawn) in the electronic cutting system of your choice -- Cricut, Silhouette, or Brother Scan N Cut.

While many of the cutting systems will suggest using their tracing features, I have had mixed success with traces.  Often they can muddy aspects of the images and they are really not successful in pictures with layered images.  So I knew I wanted a technique that preserved the integrity of the initial drawing in Electric Quilt.

I found that the key to success is an extra piece of software called Inkscape.  
What is Inkscape?

The extra piece of software I used for creating the SVGs is Inkscape.  Inkscape is a professional vector graphics editor for Windows, Mac OS X and Linux. It's free and open source. 

Inkscape can seem overwhelming to use when you open it for the first time. However you only need to use a couple of tools within Inkscape -- so this really is a piece of cake. You can download Inkscape here.

Inkscape will allow you to create an SVG file which may be used in any electronic cutting system (Cricut Design Space, Silhouette Studio, or Brother Canvas Workspace).

So what is an SVG file?  An SVG file is a graphics file that uses a two-dimensional vector graphic format.  Unlike raster formats such as JPG, GIF, and PNG, an SVG image remains crisp and clear at any resolution or size.  My Translation -- Much cleaner of an image than any trace in a cutting system.
Best Tips from the Video

Electric Quilt Tips
  • Color your block with colors (not fabric).
  • Print to a pdf writer.  If you need a pdf writer check out these free options:
    • Cute PDF Writer for Windows  (www.cutepdf.com/Products/CutePDF/writer.asp)
    • RWTS PDFwriter for MAC  (https://github.com/rodyager/RWTS-PDFwriter)
  • If you have stitch (thread) lines, turn on print block and patch outlines.  Otherwise turn them off.

Inkscape Tips
  • Ungroup everything.
  • Patches will have both outlines and fill.  Delete the outlines and keep the fill.
  • Thread will only have fill.
  • Group everything and note the size.
  • Save as an svg file.

Cricut Design Space Tips
  • Once importing the svg file, resize the group to match the size noted in Inkscape.  (Depending on the latest update, the size may be correct or may not be correct.  So always check.)
  • Use Deboss if you wish to create an impression (for thread) rather than a cut.
  • Select Attach to keep the thread with the related patch.

Card Ideas Using the Cut Ice Skates

The following cards were make from my stash of card making supplies using the Ice Skating motif design in Electric Quilt 8 and cut with my Cricut Maker. 

I am a huge Stampin Up fan and a part-time distributor (i.e. I want the purchasing discount) -- but I also accumulate supplies from a variety of other sources.  I think of card making like making scrap quilts -- use what you have on hand!
Picture
Ice Skate Card #1 - Supplies and Measurements
  • Card Base:  5-1/2" x 8-1/2", folded at 4-1/4"
  • Background:  4" x 5-1/4"
  • Layered Plaid Paper:  2-3/4" x 4-1/2"
  • Stamped Images:  Ringed With Nature Stamp Set from Stamping Up.  (Hand trimmed the poinsettias)
  • Pine Needles cut with Winter Welcome Sled dies by Spellbinders
  • Red Ribbon cut 6-1/2"
  • EQ skates cut from glimmer white (boot), grey cardstock (heal), foil cardstock (blade)
  • Not sure about the tag die cut source (size approximately 2-3/4" x 1/2".
Picture
Ice Skate Card #2 - Supplies and Measurements
  • Card Base:  5-1/2" x 8-1/2", folded at 4-1/4"
  • White cardstock:  4" x 5-1/4".  Split Card Texture dies from Stampin Up used for cut-away.
  • Christmas paper cut 3" x 5" attached to back of die-cut white cardstock.
  • Stamped Images:  Ringed With Nature Stamp Set from Stamping Up.  (Hand trimmed the poinsettias)
  • Foil Snowflakes from  Barn Dies by Stampin Up
  • Green Leaf from retired Poinsettia Petals dies.  Embossed with  Wintery 3D Embossing folders (pine bough pattern) from Stampin Up.
  • Red Ribbon cut 4-1/2" and 3".  (Ribbon as 1/4" wide).
  • EQ skates cut from glimmer white (boot), grey cardstock (heal), foil cardstock (blade)
  • Not sure about the tag die cut source (size approximately 2-3/4" x 1/2").
Picture
Ice Skate Card #3 - Supplies and Measurements
  • Card Base:  5-1/2" x 8-1/2", folded at 4-1/4"
  • Plaid paper:  4" x 5-1/4".  
  • Stamped Sentiment:  Ringed With Nature Stamp Set from Stamping Up.  
  • Poinsettia and Green Leaf from retired Poinsettia Petals dies.  Embossed with  Wintery 3D Embossing folders (pine bough pattern) from Stampin Up.
  • EQ skates cut from glimmer white (boot), grey cardstock (heal), foil cardstock (blade)
  • Not sure about the tag die cut source (size approximately 2-3/4" x 1/2").

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

New Tips and Techniques for Paper Piecing

6/18/2022

 
With over 1,200 participants in the Summertime EQ8 Challenge, everyone has had a busy week -- including me.  I am so impressed with the blocks that are being drafted as the knowledge and confidence that has been gained while going through each of the free tutorials.
​I love hearing that Susan had a major breakthrough on a special design for her grandson's quilt.
Picture
You are still welcome to sign up for the free challenge.  Videos will be available through the end of the month.

Enroll in Summertime EQ8 Challenge

* indicates required

Summertime Quilt Reveal

Picture
Choose between Wednesday morning or Thursday evening where we will be finishing up the Summertime challenge with a live Zoom meeting.

For those enrolled in the challenge, the videos will be available through the end of the month.  (During the zoom meeting, I will be sharing a way to have unlimited access to these videos.) 

Even if you were unable to join the challenge, you are still welcome to participate in the reveal where I share my layout along with my pieced quilt using these cute little blocks.  I will also be talking about Tech Know Quilters and announcing a flash sale.
Sign up for Reveal at 10 AM CDT on July 22 (Wednesday)
Sign up for Reveal at 6 PM CDT on July 23 (Thursday)

New Tips and Techniques for Paper Piecing

Electric Quilt is fantastic in that is provides us with easy to print foundation patterns.  However there has been some confusion on how to paper piece and how to cut those fabric pieces slightly oversized for the foundations.  

Since I have been sharing a lot of newly designed paper pieced patterns in the free  Summertime EQ8 challenge, I thought I should also share my thoughts on actually making these blocks.​

Paper Piecing Instructions

If you are new to foundation/paper piecing, here is my suggested piecing process.  This is excerpted from my Northwoods Loon pattern.
Picture
Download Kari's Paper Piecing Instructions
For those that prefer a video, her is a short one covering the same steps noted above (just using a different block).
Oversized Piecing Calculations - Manual Approach
When I write paper piecing instructions (for either myself or a pattern that I am publishing) I like to create a pre-cutting chart.  In those instructions, I provide the measurements for rectangles that are slightly oversized and can be added to a previous patch (or patches).  If you would like to try my approach, here are some specifics:

For each patch in the block: 
  • lay the ruler along the side to be added to the previous piece(s)
  • measure the necessary rectangle to cover the full patch
  • add 1/2 inch for required seam allowances
  • plus add 1/4 inch for a fudge factor
  • round to 1/4 inch to make cutting easy
Picture
Manual Approach to Oversized Cutting Instructions
  • In this picture you can see the ruler on the line between C1 and C2.
  • The right edge of the ruler matches the lower right corner of C2.
  • The top edge of the ruler matches the upper right corner of C2.
  • The left edge of patch C2 is at 1". 
  • The bottom edge of patch C2 is at 2-3/4".

Adding 3/4" to both the width and height gives me an oversized piece measuring 1-3/4" x 3-1/2".  I always test my patterns and if I am having any problems I will add a bit more to the pre-cut size.

​Here is my cutting chart for the ice cream cone block.  The block has a finished size of 2" x 5".  And was the first block in the Summertime EQ8 Challenge.
Picture

Creating SVG Oversized Cutting Charts

This week I decided to play with two different approaches to creating svg cutting charts for a foundation pattern.  I couldn't decide between starting with a block diagram or templates in EQ. 

​Both approaches use an extra piece of software called Inkscape.
What is Inkscape?

The extra piece of software I used for creating the SVGs is Inkscape. 

Inkscape is a professional vector graphics editor for Windows, Mac OS X and Linux. It's free and open source. 

Inkscape can seem overwhelming to use when you open it for the first time. However you only need to use a couple of tools within Inkscape -- so this really is a piece of cake. You can download Inkscape here.  ​I am currently using version 1.1  (which is the version demonstrated in the video).

Inkscape will allow you to create an SVG file which may be used in any electronic cutting system (Cricut Design Space, Silhouette Studio, or Brother Canvas Workspace).

So what is an SVG file?  An SVG file is a graphics file that uses a two-dimensional vector graphic format.  Unlike raster formats such as JPG, GIF, and PNG, an SVG image remains crisp and clear at any resolution or size.
SVG Oversized Piecing Approach 1 :  Adding Seam Allowances with Inkscape 
  1. Within EQ, print the block to a pdf writer
  2. Import the pdf into Inkscape
  3. Ungroup and delete the footer
  4. Add patch lines so the patches are more visible
  5. Set the outset to .375 inches (1/8 inch over 1/4")
  6. Apply Path>Outset to all patches
  7. Do a final group and note the size of the grouping.  
  8. Save as an SVG file
Ice Cream Cone SVG Cutting File using Approach 1
SVG Oversized Piecing Approach 2:  Create the Oversized Seam Allowances using Templates in EQ 8 and use Inkscape to Convert to SVG
  1. Within EQ, change the seam allowance size to .375.  (Make sure to change it back after completing your project).  Check the box to print solid seam allowance lines.
  2. Print templates to a pdf writer
  3. Import the pdf with templates to Inkscape
  4. Ungroup (you may need to do this multiple times)
  5. Select the components of a template and select Path>Union.  Recolor using your EQ colored block as reference.
  6. If you do a union of multiple of patches at one time, select Path>Break Apart to turn them into individual patches.
  7. For pieces used multiple times in a block, clone (or copy and paste) to make additional copies.  There should be as many template pieces as there are pieces in your block.
  8. Do a final object>group and note the size of the grouping.
  9. Save as SVG. 
Ice Cream Cone SVG Cutting File using Approach 2

Creating SVG Files with Oversized Piecing Video

Here is the video where I demonstrate both approach 1 and approach 2.
Here is the link for the Cute PDF Writer for Windows referred to in the video.
Here is the link for the RWTS PDF Writer for MAC referred to in the video.
Working the Your Cutting System
Each of the major cutting systems has a slightly different approach.  Chances are that if you have a cutting system, you have worked through the process of importing a picture or an svg. 

My primary suggestion is to always double check the measurements of your imported images and adjust them before dong anything else in your cutting system.  I have discovered that each of the cutting systems has a different "conversion" from an SVG file.  And Cricut (the brand I use), seems to "update" their system at least once a week with the updates changing the conversion percentage.  Learn from my mistakes.  I have thrown away way too much fabric for forgetting to check and adjust the size before cutting.  
Join the Summertime EQ8 Free Challenge

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

Card Making Using Electric Quilt 8

2/5/2022

 
I love quilting and enjoy spending a great deal of time every day creating virtual quilts using Electric Quilt. However, I decided I needed to spend a little bit of time away from quilting to explore expressing my creativity in a new medium.

So, this last year I have taken up card making.  I am finding that card making allows me to play with different colors and textures.  Some of the same things I love about quilting.

I have become hooked on Stampin Up and have watched a ton of You Tube videos where demonstrators share various techniques to create works of art in their cards.  I've purchased a fair number of stamps and the entire collection of current ink pads (because who wants to be missing a crucial color in the midst of card design).  

I was so excited when I discovered that Stampin Up offers kits -- which they call Paper Pumpkin.

What is Paper Pumpkin?

Picture
Paper Pumpkin is a monthly kit that includes all the supplies necessary to create a series of cards around a different theme each month. 

​Just like in quilting I found it easy to feel overwhelmed by some of the projects I found on YouTube.  Paper Pumpkin solved that overwhelm, because 
everything you need for your project is included in your monthly art box. All you have to do is open it up and get started. You’ll be able to make cards, treat bags, and so much more from this monthly subscription.  It even includes the envelopes for mailing your cards.

Among the items in each Paper Pumpkin monthly craft kit is a set of reusable rubber stamps. So after you’re done creating your monthly craft, you’ll have a valuable stamp to add to your collection. You even get a free clear stamping block with your first craft box. Plus, you get a different color small ink pad every month as well.

January 2022 Kit - Kisses and Hugs

Picture
The January kit was Kisses and Hugs.  The Kisses & Hugs Paper Pumpkin Kit contained trifold heart-shaped cards.  The printed gold foil designs added a timeless touch to these cards that you could use year-round as this kit isn’t bound to just Valentine’s Day—it works for all love occasions like anniversaries, weddings, birthdays, or those “just because” days.

I made one of each of the cards following the instructions in the kit.  (There were enough supplies to make 5 of each.)

Picture
Option 1: Card Front with Envelope
Picture
Option 1: Opened Card
Picture
Option2 Card front with envelope
Picture
Option 2: Opened Card
These were beautiful, but I really wanted to see what else I could design with the remaining supplies from the kit. 

To add to the kit, I decided to draft a series of hearts in Electric Quilt 8.  And then transferred the designs to Cricut Design Space to save time cutting everything out.  My free video this week will take you through the process of drafting a group of hearts using Electric Quilt 8 along with the transfer process.  Bonus --  there are two options for transferring the designs.
 No Electronic Cutting System:  If you don't have an electronic cutting system (Cricut, Silhouette, or Brother Scan and Cut), you could still print out your hearts created in Electric Quilt on cardstock.  Just color everything white in Electric Quilt 8 before printing.  And you will want to turn on outline patches.  Then use your favorite paper snips to cut the designs (never use those fabric scissors for this). :)​

Inkscape

The extra piece of software I used for creating the SVGs is Inkscape.  Inkscape is a professional vector graphics editor for Windows, Mac OS X and Linux. It's free and open source. 

Inkscape can seem overwhelming to use when you open it for the first time. However you only need to use a couple of tools within Inkscape -- so this really is a piece of cake. You can download Inkscape here.

Inkscape will allow you to create an SVG file which may be used in any electronic cutting system (Cricut Design Space, Silhouette Studio, or Brother Canvas Workspace).

So what is an SVG file?  An SVG file is a graphics file that uses a two-dimensional vector graphic format.  Unlike raster formats such as JPG, GIF, and PNG, an SVG image remains crisp and clear at any resolution or size.

My Paper Pumpkin Alternative Cards

The first two alternatives primarily used supplies from the kit.  The only items added were card stock and ribbon.
Picture
Picture
The background paper came from the wrong side of the included envelope.
The remaining cards used some pieces from the kit -- but I added some of the Electric Quilt designed hearts (cut out in a variety of cardstock).  I also had some fun with both heat embossing (the sentiments) and dry embossing (the added texture to the paper).  Notice that I even cut some of the EQ hearts from some of the card stock in the kit.
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
Picture
I still have a lot of extra supplies from the January kit.  I will be doing some additional playing this week before mailing off my Valentine day cards.

Paper Pumpkin

If you would like to start card making, I suggest starting with Paper Pumpkin.   You don't need to think through a huge list of supply options to figure out what you need first.  Everything you need to get started will be in your box.  Subscribe by the 10th of any month to receive that month's kit.  The first box will even include a mounting block that will work with all the stamps.  

Stampin' Up offers both monthly subscriptions and prepaid subscriptions.  In both situations, you can pick the months you want to participate.  It is super easy to opt out of a month that doesn't interest you.

Stampin' Up prices for Paper Pumpkin will be going up on March 1st.  As a result the prepaid subscription is a great value.  Essentially you are pre-buying a number of boxes at the current price.  Then you can decide which months to apply them to.   Click on the links below to purchase any prepaid subscription.  The prepaid subscriptions are non-renewing unless you elect to renew.
Picture
1 Month Prepaid Subscription for $21
Picture
Prepaid 3-Month Paper Pumpkin Subscription for $63
Picture
Prepaid 6-Month Paper Pumpkin Subscription for $114
Picture
Prepaid 12-month Paper Pumpkin Subscription for $220
You may also make any other purchases of Stampin Up products while you are on the Stampin' Up website.  If you purchase Stampin Up product using my host code during February 2022, you are eligible for a special thank you gift from me, plus purchasing bonuses from Stampin Up.

Kari's Thank You Gift

Picture
Being a quilter, I really love the look of stitched lines around a shape.  It could be one of the heart shapes from today's tutorial.  Or a square, rectangle or even oval shape for stamping a sentiment.  Learn my process for adding those stitched lines to your shapes with an exclusive tutorial for those purchasing with Host Code  W7FGRTYW.  You must use the host code when checking out with Stampin' Up to be eligible for the bonus. 

Tutorial will be sent to you the first week in March.

Bonuses from Stampin' Up

As an added bonus, Stampin' Up is in the midst of Sale-a-bration.  Sale-a-bration allows you to earn free product for every $50 spent.   This includes the purchases of any of the prepaid subscriptions referred to above.

After placing your order, you will be prompted to select an item (or items) from their Sale-a-bration catalogue.
Picture
​My favorite Sale a-bration freebie is the Friendly Hello stamp set and  paper combo -- available for orders of $100 or more.

You can see a few of my cards from this set below.
Picture
Sale-a-bration Friendly Hello Stamps and Paper
Picture
My first card from this set was a "fun fold". It folds up to 5-1/2 x 4-1/4 (standard card size). The bottom section folds down, which means the card can stand up for display purposes. The bird was colored with alcohol markers. The personal sentiment goes on the back. Inspiration was a tutorial by Cindy Brumbaugh.
Picture
These cards were stamped on vellum and heat embossed with black embossing powder. The stamped bird and flower were painted with Whisper White craft ink on the back side of the vellum. Inspiration was a tutorial by Cheri Stojkovich.

'Stampin' Up Check Out Process

This quick video will walk you through the check out process.  Make sure to enter the host cost ​W7FGRTYW when checking out.  This will ensure you are eligible for the free Inkscape tutorial on adding stitching lines.  This will also explain how to add your Sale-a-bration rewards to your order.
Please feel free to send me an email with any questions on your Stampin' Up order.  I can be reached at [email protected]

If you use Electric Quilt to design either the hearts (or another image) for cardmaking, I would love to see your designs or cards.  Feel free to post in the Learning EQ Facebook group using this link.
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
<<Previous
    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
    Patterns
    Silhouette Cameo
    Stampin Up
    Tips And Techniques
    Tools And Rulers

    Archives

    April 2025
    March 2025
    February 2025
    January 2025
    December 2024
    November 2024
    October 2024
    September 2024
    August 2024
    July 2024
    June 2024
    May 2024
    April 2024
    March 2024
    February 2024
    January 2024
    December 2023
    November 2023
    October 2023
    September 2023
    August 2023
    July 2023
    June 2023
    May 2023
    April 2023
    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
    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:  [email protected]
phone:  763-566-6536

GET MY NEWSLETTER FOR REGULAR EQ AWESOMENESS!

* indicates required
  • Blog
  • About
  • EQ8 Training
    • Tech Know Quilters Electric Quilt 8 Membership Training
    • EQ8 Made Easy
    • Electric Quilt 8 Sneak Peek
  • Store
  • Contact