With as ‘into’ sewing and technology as I am, it’s surprising that I haven’t ever used a computer program designed for pattern making. There’s several out there, Wild Ginger, LEKO, and Bernina’s My Label. However, it wasn’t until Amy Butler released her Electric Quilt Softwares CD that I finally took the plunge.
Amy’s CD is a stand alone software (although it is compatible with Electric Quilt 6) for your PC or Mac systems that run Windows (with Virtual PC) and contains 22 unique home decor projects (8 quilts, 3 table runners, 7 pillows, 1 floor cushion and 3 bags). Also included are 9 ‘bonus’ projects which are a variety of tutorials that have appeared on Amy’s site. The design of the CD is easy to navigate and is extremely user friendly – it allows you to start ‘playing’ immediately without spending time reading a manual. However, if you’re interested in some of the more complex aspects of the software such as customizing quilt patterns, all the instructions are available right on the CD. That’s right, you can take existing project patterns and make them ‘your own’ by erasing, flipping, rotating blocks, adding boarders, altering layouts, and changing fabrics! No matter what you chose, either the project as it’s written or complete customization, all sewing instructions are provided as well as fabric requirements (even if you alter the pattern!). Also included in the CD is a sewing glossary, tips, and technique section, resource guide, list of available fabrics by Amy, and loads of inspiration projects and photos.
While Amy’s CD is geared toward quilters, this program has whetted my appetite for using my computer to design patterns – and can’t wait to try my hand at a few others. Want to try one for yourself? Wild Ginger has a free download available that allows you to customize accessories such as hats, bags, and footwear!
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