any suggestions for computer programs for designing quilts just the lay out. I do a lot of designing my own quilts try to fit them for the person I'm making them for or the fabric I found that I just had to have and I'm tired of just drawing it on a note pad

I have quilt wizard and EQ6. The first was about $30 and the last about$150. It all depends on how much you want it to do.

Electric Quilt 5 is what I have, but I have to admit I haven't had the chance to really play with it much. I already had two quilts I designed to do and also some oter one I have to as gifts.

EQ6 allows you to scan or take pictures of your fabrics and use them in the blocks you choose or create, and in the sashing and borders too... There are less expensive programs out there, but I find this one to do all that I want and then some :D:D:D

I have EQ 6 too.

I have Quilt Wizard and I WANT EQ6 (hint, hint...lol)

I started out using graph paper, then Windows Paint, then Quilt Design Wizard, then EQ6.

This just follows my financial situation over the past 8 years and the fact that I love to play with designs!

Obviously the finances get easier as the kids leave the nest!

I too went from hand drawing to QW to EQ6! I think it's a good path to follow! QW gives you a more affordable way of seeing if you like designing by computer or not - I know some don't! Plus I think QW is pretty easy to get to grips with (my 7 year old plays with it now) and when you upgrade to EQ6, it will look more familiar so be less intimidating because a lot of the basic features are the same. Although EQ6 is light years ahead in what it can do - I've barely scratched the surface with mine! If you want to mainly design quilts with blocks of the same size, then QW will do you. For custom blocks, drawing your own appliqué, designing your own blocks, quilting patterns, scanning in your own fabric and about a gazillion more options go for EQ6.

I have EQ6 and am still learning how to use it. So far it's been pretty easy to understand the lessons and I love it. It comes with a user manual with lessons in it. I bought mine through jhittlesewing.com. They sell it for $114.60 with free shipping! (instead of $149.95 plus shipping!) Check it out if you want EQ6.

I bought mine off ebay for 89.00. It was still wrapped in plastic and all the downloads (6) still intact!