joyceinoh

I use the 200 thread count sheets They work for me. :)

eaglebeak1960

I have the quilters calculator it works great!! It helps figure out how much I need. I always buy more than I need just in case I mess up

mackandblues

If I bought a kit then yes I will use the pattern and follow it exactly - don't want to run out of fabric!! Otherwise I look at pictures and make modifications on size of squares and such to fit my stash.

tryitall

Same here.

samifel

I draw all of my patterns on graph paper and use that pattern that I created or copied. Having said that, rarely does the final product look exactly like the original design.

Annz

I prefer to use patterns for my templets only because I have so many other things on my mind to function with that I don't feel I want to take the necessary time to complete a quilt without some kind of guidance. I am now designing my own storm at sea and it is very challenging giving that I work and have a home to take care of along with 3 young men and my husband, pets, house work , chores, errands. Need I say more.?

grandmaquilts

Me too!! I follow the instructions for the amount of fabric and buy extra, just in case something goes wrong.

whitediamond00

Some times I use a pattern, but usually end up modifying it. I have a library of quilting books and magazines and I love to sit on the deck in the late afternoon, when the weather is nice, with a glass of wine and read them.

grandmaquilts

I too have a lot of quilting books and magazines. I love to sit and read them and can't wait til they come in the mail. Yesterday I received 2 at the same time. Sat down and read them both. I also love getting my catalogues from Nancy's Notions, Connecting Threads, Clothilde and Keepsake Quilting. I started yesterday to go thru all the old paperwork and quilting catalogues in my sewing room and found some from 2005 and 2006. Why did I keep them so long. I made myself toss them.

happymrs

I like patterns, but usually end up changing some things, & do my own thing. Great for ideas though, & some blocks. I think it's important to let your own creativity loose too, & if that changes the original pattern, then so be it. Not all of us want to make an exact replica, that any one who buys the pattern, can also!... I love playing with patterns this way, it's like, after awhile, the quilt takes on it's own design. You start, thinking one thing, & before you know, you may be going in a totally different direction, & end up with a totally different quilt design, than the one you were first thinking about, & there is nothing at all wrong with that. Now, if someone wants the name of the pattern, tell them which you started out with, & they can take it from there....