EQ does have a layer where you can add quilting designs. Granted, I haven't figured out how to do this but I know it's there. As to how I decide...guess I'm another one that I let the quilt 'speak' to me. Or I rummage through my stencils to see what will interest me for a given quilt. I have a tendancy to pick up different stencils when at shows. I can usually also get to Lancaster, PA a few times a year and there are a few of the shops there that have wonderful selections of stencils. And I have to say when I was Albuquerque last fall (sorry - forget which) one of the LQS shops there had an amazing selection. Of course, quite a few came home with me. I may not have a fabric stash (by choice) but I do seem to be developing quite the stencil stash!