My answers are in purple. 😉
Originally Posted by
QuiltingfeverinNC
Is there a learning curve?
I started with 6 and have upgraded every edition. 6 to 7 was an easy migration, 7 to 8 was a little more of a challenge, they changed the interface a bit, and moved things around. However, once I got used to it, I find 8 easier to use.
Originally Posted by
QuiltingfeverinNC
Will I be able to follow along with the YouTube videos that are being used on windows?
Not sure, I've never watched any videos. I suspect the Windows version is very similar, if not identical, to the Mac version, though. I think it would be counter-productive for EQ to produce one product that operates in 2 different ways, they'd have to write 2 different user manuals, etc. Maybe someone else could weigh in and confirm this.
Originally Posted by
QuiltingfeverinNC
Do you like it?
I love it! I use it for so many things. I use it to help me envision what my quilt would look like - I swap around the block sizes, the colors, add sashing, delete sashing, try out different borders, etc. It tells me how much fabric I'll need, gives me rotary cutting sizes, if I'd rather paper-piece the block, I can print out that pattern. It does NOT tell you how to piece and assemble the top, though, you have to already know that or be able to figure it out for yourself. I like to play with it in the evenings while sitting with my hubs watching tv. I also like to try to design other people's quilts I see (reverse engineer). I think doing that makes me a better piecer.
Originally Posted by
QuiltingfeverinNC
Also, I see it on Amazon for 169.00 and on the actual site for 239. Where did you buy yours?
I bought mine directly from EQ, and if you already own a previous version, they give you an "upgrade" price - you get the full stand-alone software at a reduced rate. I don't know anything about the Amazon product, but I'd be careful who you're actually buying it from. One of the reviews said she was sold a used product and there were no more activations available for the software. However, EQ has EXCELLENT customer service and support. I purchased a used copy for my mom from my friend (can't remember if it was 6 or 7) and they helped me get it activated and set up for her. It might be a good idea to call EQ and ask them "If I bought a used copy of the software, would you help me get it set up and activated?"
Originally Posted by
QuiltingfeverinNC
Is the beginner book necessary?
Honestly I don't know. If you learn well on your own, just playing around in the software, you might not need it. I didn't, because I just goofed off and clicked on things saying "hmmm, what does this do", etc. When I wanted to learn how to do something specific, I looked it up in the user manual. If you like a bit more structure than me, the beginner book would probably be a good idea.😆