When I first started quilting I didn’t have access to patterns so I used graph paper to design my quilts. This was in the days before rotary cutters too. So my next step was to cut out templates from cardboard that I placed on my fabric and then traced around so I could cut the shapes with scissors. I still sometimes use graph paper to design my quilts, but don’t do the templates and scissors thing anymore
. Now I mostly do improvisational piecing, though I may start with basic elements like 4 patch blocks or half-square triangles, flying geese, etc. My design wall is very important in helping me design. I make a bunch of things and then stick them on the design wall and figure out how to fill any spaces that might need filling,etc. I’ve been meaning to learn how to use EQ8, but as soon as I got time to do that I had to replace my computer so now I have to get with them to figure out how to transfer the license to my new computer.
Rob