I am really not too good at following patterns. Seems like directions are always confusing. I like to design my own things...sometimes I even design as I go. I like to plan out things in my head, but I usually end up getting a better idea and changing it.....I mean, sometimes I go with the pattern, if it is really important...I'd rather be unique, though. Easier for me.

Do you like patterns or just go with the flow??? (or should I say Go with the stitch/thread?)

I follow the directions on how to make a certain quilt block and then go from there. I have only quilted a little over a year , so I go with the easy stuff. I like the folk stuff, have been checking it out. A lot of it is based on doing your own design. :D

I've done both.... I've had many patterns that AFTER I make the blocks I'm not happy with the border THEY have chosen so do my own or leave it off completely....also have added sashing or left it out when it was or wasn't called for...etc..... MOST of the time...I see a picture on the internet and then make my own pattern from the pic.... its all just so much fun! LOL

I have done both... prefer doing my own thing. A friend calls it doing a Round Robin by yourself. LOL! I will make a center field.. then step back and look at it.. add this.. step back.. add that... and on and on until it is done. Even when I follow patterns, I rarely follow them exactly. The rebel in me has to make slight changes.

Barb C.

Well after the last project....even with the best of intentions....I usually end up with a design that is new... I have used patterns...but I guess I just can't help it....It manages to get tweaked no matter the original plan. :lol:

i can't even stick to my own patterns. by the time i finish the real quilt it only resembles the original design. :shock: :lol:

Mostly do my own thing, what started out as a neccesity because it was hard to get access to a good range of patterns has become just how I do things now :)

I have done both. I actually enjoy the math of drafting patterns, and the legal issues involved in teaching classes from a commercial pattern are a hassle I don't want to deal with.

i seem to never have enough of a fabric to make a "ready design' quilt.
even tho lately I have spent way too much money on fabric so I could stock up on colors and prints. I am currently piecing 3 quilts..."ideas" from "ready designs" but they will be my own...one way or another...to accomadate what i have to work with. I think everyone here is mostly like this. I have never bought a "Kit"....they are way out of my price line. I am amazed at the quilts each of you have sewn...I have not even come close to some of these designs, log cabins do not interest me nor some of the other tradictional designs..I wonder what is in store for me when the "Quilt Fairy" finally comes my way and sprinkles the "creative Quilt dust"over me..i hope she does it soon!!!