There is another thread here where they have a sale today to upgrade to EQ7 for 71. I think its easy to use and lots of tutorials out there. I'm lucky because my LQS has a class where we are creating the Dear Jane blocks in the first half of the class in EQ7 and then converting the digitizing in 5DPro in the second half. Now I'm learning so much about each one. With the amount of blocks in this quilt, I'm sure to be good at both by the time I'm done.

EQ5 should have come with very well written manual which allows you to teach yourself all the basics and beyond. I started with version 5 and taught myself out of the manual--it's very well written and produced. If the manual is missing, try looking on Ebay or Craig's List for one or see if the company has one you can download for a small fee.

Even if you can't find the manual, it seems you're hesitant to purchase the software upgrade. If that is the case, then you shouldn't because you will be unhappy having spent the money.

However, if you find yourself itching to design your own quilts, audition your own fabrics into an existing pattern, re-sizing a design or auditioning quilting motifs, this software can be MEGA useful!

If you think you'll just be an occasional user, however, I see no reason to upgrade, as EQ5 should be able to do most of those functions, possibly excepting the last one.

I had EQ 5 and updated to 7. Just recently, "migrated" from the windows to the Mac version of 7. Personally, I love it. Yes, there is a learning curve, but so many video tutorials...it just takes a decision to learn something new. On top of that, I have to say, their support either by phone or email is some of the fastest and best around! I would say it is definitely worth the money!

I have played in my EQ5 many times. I have actually made about 5 or 6 of the quilts I "created" there. It is wonderful to see what it will look like before I even start cutting.

I have EQ5. Have not use it much....I am not a quilt designer.....I would rather copy a pattern already created by someone else.....thus, many books, mags, and patterns fill my world.......as far as Dear Jane...I attempted that several years ago as my personal challenge for that year...at that time a addition to EQ5 was offered....I purchased, put onto my computer and I have to say, although I did not finish Dear Jane, that program certainly made it a workable endeavor.....I will not upgrade to a newer version of EQ.....it becomes a racket with all these upgrades...JMHO