I use Excel to keep track of prices on thread, batting, etc. Never even thought of using it to design quilts other than to print out a grid like someone previously suggested.
I use Quilt Pro to design all my quilts. It's very simple to use and was quite a bit cheaper than Electric Quilt back when I bought it. Quilt Pro also makes a very simple program called 1-2-3 Quilt that you might want to download the demo for.
http://www.quiltpro.com
Also, I got a notice today that EQ7 will be released in June so you may be able to get a deal on EQ6.
Beverly