Tag Archives: Electric Quilt

New Product! Add-on EQ8 Block Library: AccuQuilt BOB SET 4

Posted in accuquilt, EQ8, Patterns for Sale by

New BOB Blocks are here! This new Add-on EQ8 Block Library for AccuQuilt contains 16 gorgeous BOB blocks that were released in 2022. BOB die blocks enable you to create an entire block with one die board.  Every piece needed for the block is on the design board. You can design your quilt with EQ8 and then use your AccuQuilt GO! cutter to cut it out.

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This file contains SET 4 of the BOB block designs which includes 16 blocks.  The blocks vary in size as indicated to match the actual size of the BOB die block. I have included the size of the block by the name reference.

The ONLY designs included in this set are:

  • GO! Alabama Beauty 10” (55597)
  • GO! Butterfly Pieced 9” (55598)
  • GO! Chinese Lanterns 8” (55599)
  • GO! Goose Tracks 9” (55536)
  • GO! Grandmother’s Fan 9” (55537)
  • GO! Lucky Star 10” (55600)
  • GO! Mill and Stars 8” (55601)
  • GO! Mosaic #4 10” (55608)
  • GO! North Carolina Star 12” (55605)
  • GO! Plaited Block 12” (55606)
  • GO! Priscilla Stripe 6” (55607)
  • GO! Road to Fortune 9” (55586)
  • GO! Star of the East 9” (55587)
  • GO! Tree of Life 14” (55588)
  • GO! Washington’s Puzzle 4” (55602)
  • GO! Whirling Star 12” (55603)

Required: A running copy of EQ8 Quilt Design Software from The Electric Quilt Company.

Required: You will need the Accuquilt BOB die set in the size that matches the EQ8 library file in order to cut out these block designs with the Accuquilt GO! Cutter.  Make sure your cutter is the right size for the BOB die.

This is a downloadable digital file that you will place into your personal block library.  Once you place the block file in your library, you will be able to use it immediately to draw and design quilts.  I have included all of the instructions to add the files to your EQ8 Design Software.  You will receive the EQ8 Block library, a block reference guide and an instruction document.  The blocks are all labeled to match the reference guide.

Now you can use the power of EQ8 to recolor and combine blocks to design beautiful quilts.

Once you have designed your quilt, you can use your Accuquilt GO! Cutter to make it.  I have also included tips and suggestions for determining what dies to use and how to determine fabric requirements.

I hope you enjoy these files as you create your BOB design quilts.

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Happy designing with your Accuquilt Block on Board Set 4 library blocks in EQ8!

If you liked the new Add-on EQ8 Block Library files for AccuQuilt BOB Set 4, check out my other available Add-on Block libraries for EQ8 that work with AccuQuilt in my shop.

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I appreciate your feedback and suggestions on this product. Please tag me on Facebook or Instagram @lorimillerdesigns with your designs, I would love to see them.

New Product! Add-on EQ8 Block Library: AccuQuilt BOB SET 3

Posted in accuquilt, EQ8, Patterns for Sale by

You have been asking for them and they are finally here! This Add-on EQ8 Block Library for AccuQuilt contains another 15 lovely BOB blocks. BOB die blocks enable you to create an entire block with one die board.  Every piece needed for the block is on the design board. You can design your quilt with EQ8 and then use your AccuQuilt GO! cutter to cut it out.

This file contains SET 3 of the BOB block designs which includes 15 blocks.  The blocks vary in size as indicated to match the BOB die. I have included the size of the block by the name reference.

The ONLY designs included in this set are:

  • GO! Basket of Lilies 12” Finished (55530)
  • GO! Carpenter’s Wheel 18” Finished (55531)
  • GO! Cornucopia 10” Finished (55532)
  • GO! Crossroads 9” Finished (55533)
  • GO! Drunkards Path 3.5” Finished (55070)
  • GO! Drunkards Path 4” Finished (55338)
  • GO! Drunkards Path 7” Finished (55034)
  • GO! Feather Star 16” Finished (55535)
  • GO! Goose Tracks 9” Finished (55536)
  • GO! Pickle Dish 10” Finished (55539)
  • GO! Prairie Star 14” Finished (55540
  • GO! Rising Star 10” Finished (55541)
  • GO! Schoolhouse 9” Finished (55542)
  • GO! Tangled Star 10” Finished (55543)
  • GO! Weathervane 8” Finished (55544)

Required: A running copy of EQ8 Quilt Design Software from The Electric Quilt Company.

Required: You will need the Accuquilt BOB die set in the size that matches the EQ8 library file in order to cut out these block designs with the Accuquilt GO! Cutter.  Make sure your cutter is the right size for the BOB die.

This is a downloadable digital file that you will place into your personal block library.  Once you place the block file in your library, you will be able to use it immediately to draw and design quilts.  I have included all of the instructions to add the files to your EQ8 Design Software.  You will receive the EQ8 Block library, a block reference guide and an instruction document.  The blocks are all labeled to match the reference guide.

Now you can use the power of EQ8 to recolor and combine blocks to design beautiful quilts.

Once you have designed your quilt, you can use your Accuquilt GO! Cutter to make it.  I have also included tips and suggestions for determining what dies to use and how to determine fabric requirements.

I hope you enjoy these files as you create your BOB design quilts.

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Happy designing with your Accuquilt Block on Board Set 3 library blocks in EQ8!

If you liked the new Add-on EQ8 Block Library files for AccuQuilt BOB Set 3, check out my other available Add-on Block libraries for EQ8 that work with AccuQuilt in my shop.

Visit Shop

I appreciate your feedback and suggestions on this product. Please tag me on Facebook or Instagram @lorimillerdesigns with your designs, I would love to see them.

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New Product! Add-on EQ8 Block Library – AccuQuilt Qube English Paper Piecing (EPP)

Posted in accuquilt, EQ8, Patterns for Sale by

Introducing my latest Add-on EQ8 Block Library file, AccuQuilt Qube English Paper Piecing. Included are 40 Pieced Hexagon blocks to load into EQ8 Quilt design software.

Add-on EQ8 Block Libraries and AccuQuilt are a genius combination!

  • Convenient, predrawn pieced blocks
  • Visual reference of 40 unique block designs
  • Design in EQ8 quickly, Cut out with speed and accuracy with your AccuQuilt GO!
  • Download and installation instructions included
  • Bonus FREE EQ8 layout lessons

EQ8 is Quilt Design Software by The Electric Quilt Company.  I design my quilts in EQ8, I teach EQ8 and I use EQ8 in my original patterns. I love this design software!

These block designs work with the Accuquilt GO! Qube English Paper Piecing (EPP) (1″ Finished Sides) Die set.  You can use the Die Shapes in the GO! Qube EPP to cut out these blocks. These pieced blocks finish with a 2″ side.

These EQ8 Block Library files are downloadable digital files that are designed to work with your EQ8 Quilt Design Software.  They are only compatible with EQ8.  Once you place the block file in your library, you will be able to use it immediately to draw and design quilts.

Required: A running copy of EQ8 Quilt Design Software.

40 Pieced Hexagon Blocks!

I have included the 36 Pieced Hexagon Blocks included in the GO! Qube English Paper Piecing Brochure plus 4 bonus blocks. These pieced blocks finish as a hexagon shape with 2″ finished sides.

These blocks are Pieced Hexagon EPP Blocks that can be cut out with your Qube English Paper Piecing die set.

Designing with the EQ8 Block library lets you play with fabrics and colors using these shapes to design and tailor your own beautiful quilt to your unique style.

Complete Instructions including EQ8 Hexagon Quilt layout design lessons!

Each set of library blocks comes with a complete set of Instructions, a Visual Block Reference Guide and four EQ8 Hexagon Quilt layout design lessons.

AccuQuilt provides detailed sewing instructions to piece the 36 pieced blocks on their website, a link is provided in the Instruction document.

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Thank You!  And Happy Designing!

More Products Available!

I have Add-on EQ8 Block Libraries for the Accuquilt Qube original 216 Four Patch designs, Nine Patch Party, Five Patch Fun, Sweet Sixteen and three sets of BOB libraries.

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New Product! Add-On EQ8 Block Library – AccuQuilt Qube Sweet Sixteen

Posted in accuquilt, EQ8, Patterns for Sale by

Introducing my newest Add-on EQ8 Block Library file, Sweet Sixteen! I am excited to offer the next set of digital EQ8 Block Library files for the Accuquilt Qubes.  These files include 60 gorgeous Sixteen patch Patch variation block designs that you can load into EQ8 Quilt design software.

EQ8 is Quilt Design Software by The Electric Quilt Company.  I design my quilts in EQ8, I teach EQ8 and I use EQ8 in my original patterns. I love this design software!

These block designs work with the Accuquilt GO! Qube Mix and Match Die sets.  You can use the Die Shapes in the GO! Qubes to cut out these blocks.

These EQ8 Block Library files are downloadable digital files that are designed to work with your EQ8 Quilt Design Software.  They are only compatible with EQ8.  Once you place the block file in your library, you will be able to use it immediately to draw and design quilts.

Required: A running copy of EQ8 Quilt Design Software.

60 Beautiful Sixteen Patch Blocks!

I have included 60 Sweet Sixteen Block designs with brand new, traditional and even familiar blocks. There are so many design possibilities in EQ8.

These blocks are Sixteen Patch Blocks that can be cut out with your Qube Mix & Match Set, no companion dies are needed.

Since the Sixteen Patch design is based upon a 8 x 8 grid, your finished block sizes will finish larger as indicated in the chart below.

The Sweet Sixteen block files come in all the Qube sizes: 4″, 6″, 8″, 9″, 10″ and 12″ .  They are color coordinated by size in the shop so you can find the size you need. You only need one size of EQ8 Qube files as EQ8 will let you resize the blocks.

Complete Instructions including Die Cutting Guide!

Each set of library blocks comes with a complete set of Instructions, a Block Reference Guide and a Die Cutting Guide.

The Die Cutting Guide provides pictures of the Sweet Sixteen blocks and which shapes are needed from the Qube to cut out that block similar to the picture above.

Please note:  If you have more than one size of Qube, you only need one size of library.  Once you have the EQ8 Library for Accuquilt installed into EQ8, you can easily resize to your other size Qubes as it will scale properly.  You can certainly purchase other sizes for convenience, but it is not necessary.

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Thank You!  And Happy Quilting!

More Products Available!

If you like designing and making your own quilts with EQ8 and AccuQuilt, check out some of my other products.

Find GO! Friendly patterns and more Add-on EQ8 Block Libraries including the original 216 Four Patch Mix & Match designs, Nine Patch Party, Five Patch Fun, Sweet Sixteen and three sets of BOB libraries.

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Published – Santa Baby Door Hanger

Posted in Published by

USED WITH PERMISSION FROM QUILTS & MORE™. ©2021 MEREDITH CORPORATION. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

HO HO HO! Santa Claus is coming to town! This adorable Santa Baby Door Hanger is a festive way to celebrate the season. I am so proud to have it featured in Quilts & More Magazine. It is made with wool felt applique and embellishments. A great gift idea for friends and family too.

My Santa Baby Door Hanger is featured in the Winter 2022 issue of Better Homes & Gardens Quilts & More Magazine available now.

Shop ElectricQuilt.com

I designed this little project with my trusty EQ8 Quilt Design Software.

I designed this little project with my trusty EQ8 Quilt Design Software. I used it to create the little applique shapes and the background piecing. I love that you can add or remove a seam allowance around the applique shapes depending on the applique technique you are using.

The little guy really starts to take shape as you add embellishements like buttons, pom pom and the fuzzy wool felt I found for the beard and mustache.

USED WITH PERMISSION FROM QUILTS & MORE™. ©2021 MEREDITH CORPORATION. ALL RIGHTS RESERVED

The extra fringe, pom pom trim and ribbon loop add to the holiday charm.

You can find the pattern and instructions in the Winter 2022 Issue of Quilts & More.

Happy Stitching!

New Product! Add-on EQ8 Block Library for AccuQuilt Qube: Nine Patch Party

Posted in accuquilt, EQ8, Patterns for Sale by

Let’s have a party!  A Nine Patch Party!  I am pleased to introduce the next set of  Add-on EQ8 Block Library files designed to work with your AccuQuilt Mix & Match Qubes.  Included are 60 gorgeous Nine Patch variation block designs that you can load into EQ8 Quilt design software.

EQ8 is Quilt Design Software by The Electric Quilt Company.  I design my quilts in EQ8, I teach EQ8 and I use EQ8 in my original patterns.

These convenient block designs work with the Accuquilt GO! Qube Mix and Match Die sets.  You can use the Die Shapes in the GO! Qubes to cut out these blocks with speed and accuracy.

These EQ8 Block Library files are downloadable digital files that are designed to work with your EQ8 Quilt Design Software.  They are only compatible with EQ8.  Once you place the block file in your library, you will be able to use it immediately to draw and design beautiful quilts.

Required: A running copy of EQ8 Quilt Design Software.

60 Gorgeous Nine Patch Blocks!

I have included 60 Nine Patch Party Block designs from beginner to challenging, from traditional to creative.  You are sure to find some great options to design and color your own quilts in EQ8.

These blocks are Nine Patch Blocks that can be cut out with your Go! Qube Mix & Match Set, no companion dies are needed.

Since the Nine Patch design is based upon a 3 x 3 grid, your finished block sizes will finish larger as indicated in the chart below.

block sizes

Nine Patch Party is available in all of the GO! Qube sizes.  They are color coordinated by size in the shop so you can find the size you need.

Complete Instructions including Die Cutting Guide!

Each set of library blocks comes with a complete set of Instructions, a Block Reference Guide and a Die Cutting Guide.

The Die Cutting Guide provides pictures of the Nine Patch Party blocks and which shapes are needed from the Qube to cut out that block similar to the picture above.

Please note:  If you have more than one size of Qube, you only need one size of the block library.  Once you have the EQ8 Library for AccuQuilt installed into EQ8, you can easily resize to your other size Qubes as it will scale properly.  You can certainly purchase other sizes for convenience, but it is not necessary.

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More Products Available!

If you like designing and making your own quilts with EQ8 and AccuQuilt, check out my other products!.

Visit Shop

Thank You!  And Happy Quilting!

Published – Welcome Neighbor Table Topper

Posted in Finished Projects, Gift Ideas, Home Accessories, Published by

Used with permission from American Patchwork & Quilting®. ©2020 Meredith Corporation. All rights Reserved.

In the August 2020 issue of American Patchwork and Quilting Magazine, you will find my latest design. It is a table topper of little rainbow paper pieced houses.  I used a linen background and colorful fabrics from my stash to make this little cutie.  It is a great gift idea to celebrate a new home, welcome new friends or just spiff up your own table.

Here is the cover of the August issue to look for, there are lots of fun projects in this issue just in time for summer sewing.

I designed my topper in EQ8 Quilt Design Software.  It is a foundation paper pieced design that would be great for an intermediate quilter or a dedicated beginner.  I find starting on paper pieced projects that are smaller is a great way to try out this technique.

I played with a lot of different color ideas, EQ8 Quilt design software makes it easy to do that, try on different fabrics and styles.  Here is another color way that I played with in EQ8.

 

I used foundation patterns created with #EQ8 to make each of the eight sections of the quilt.  This section is the top of the house.

i just took my time carefully pressing and trimming.  I did not want to handle too much to keep the linen edges from fraying.

I always think it is a little weird to sew upside down and backwards, lol, but the precise stitching lines it creates are so worth it.

 

Here is one of the 8 little house wedges all put together.  Ignore my well used ironing board cover.  I will have to make a new cover one of these days.

I did assembly line sewing for each section.  I just love how they take shape.

I stitch the wedges into pairs aligning the seams.  Then I sew the four sections of the block together to make half of the table topper.  I then sew the two half together and press seams open.

Used with permission from American Patchwork & Quilting®. ©2020 Meredith Corporation. All rights Reserved.

I used a combination of walking foot quilting and free motion quilting on the topper.  It is small enough that you can experiment with some detail to get the lovely texture.

I would love to see your version, just tag me on facebook or instagram @lorimillerdesigns

I love a good table topper.  Check out my other designs on these posts.

Welcome Home Pineapple Topper information can be found HERE.

If you are new to paper piecing, you might like to try my Stardrop Table Topper first.  I have a free tutorial HERE.

Please tag me on instagram @lorimillerdesigns or on facebook @lorimillerdesigns.  I would love to see your version!

Happy Stitching!

 

Published – Welcome Home Pineapple Table Topper

Posted in EQ8, Finished Projects, Home Accessories, Published by

 

In the May 2020 issue of American Quilter Magazine, you will find my latest design. It is a stunning table topper made with Princess Palette Batik by Mirah.  This palette of batiks acts like blenders and is the perfect combination of colors for the design.  This sunny Pineapple represents warm welcomes, celebration and hospitality and is perfect to welcome guests or gift to a friend.

I designed my topper in EQ8 Quilt Design Software.  It is a foundation paper pieced design that would be great for an intermediate quilter or a dedicated beginner.  I find starting on paper pieced projects that are smaller is a great way to try out this technique.

I was able to import the Princess Palette Batik fabrics right into EQ8 to mock up a realistic picture of my design.  I could try different colors before I had to cut into that precious fabric.  Batik by Mirah generously provided all of the fabrics.  They have some beautiful fabrics that you should definitely consider for your next project.  Batik by Mirah

 

I used foundation patterns created with #EQ8 to make each of the eight sections of the quilt.

It is a lot of stitching, pressing and cutting, but the result really starts to take shape.

Here, I am trimming the sewn foundation.

Then I stitched the four sections of the block together.

The individual blocks  come together to create one pineapple.  There are 8 blocks needed to make the topper.

 

I sewed four blocks together to make half the topper and then stitched the two halves together.

I use a water soluble pen to mark the quilting designs on the topper.  I wanted to stitch little feathers in the background.

Then I stitched cross hatching in the pineapples.

Here is a closeup of the quilting after it was finished and washed.  I love that crinkly texture!

I would love to see your version, just tag me on facebook or instagram @lorimillerdesigns

Happy Stitching!

 

I love to teach EQ8!

Posted in EQ8 by

A wonderful thing happened about five years ago.  I discovered a fabulous software program that has changed my life and took me in surprising and fun directions.  Electric Quilt was a computer software program to design quilts.  It was perfect.

Me at age 11

Let’s take a step back.  I decided to retire early in 2012 and do something with all my creative energy.  I had been a sewist since age 11 and had sewn clothing, home decor, halloween costumes and most recently quilts and small quilty gifts.  I was designing with pencil and graph paper.  I wanted to design more quilts and had an idea to submit to quilt magazines.  I needed something more efficient.  I found Electric Quilt 7 quilt design software.

I bought the software, I tried to use it, it was a comprehensive program.  I was squeaking out a few things when I discovered what turned out to be the first EQ Academy in Ohio.  I lived in Michigan, not a bad drive from where I lived so I invested in myself and attended classes.  So truth be told, it was a perfect match.  I started my career as a computer programmer and ended up as a Director of Information Technology in the Automotive industry.  Mixing my technical background with my love for quilting made Electric Quilt the perfect choice.

I was off and running after those first classes, I was designing my own original patterns.  I made beautiful quilts for friends and family.  I submitted designs from EQ8 to magazines with success and started my own independent pattern business.

I loved it so much, I started to teach the software to others.  I started out teaching my husband, he is so supportive and was my first student.  I began to teach at a local quilt shop and to teach at local quilt events.

I had a wonderful opportunity come up a few years ago to teach for Electric Quilt at one of their EQ Academies.  I really enjoyed it.  I especially enjoy teaching beginners, it is so rewarding to see the light bulbs come on and to have them get excited about designing that perfect quilt they have been thinking about.

It is rewarding to help others be able to design and be creative using this unique, comprehensive software.

I continue to build my knowledge and teach others.  This year I will be teaching a lot of new users, maybe you will be one of my students and learn the joys of designing in EQ8.

Here is my current EQ8 2020 Teaching Schedule:

Postponed to a future date  March 26-28    Decorative Stitch Quilt Shop, Shelby Township, MI

CANCELLED  See you in the Fall  April 2-5    Sprng EQ Academy, Perrysburg, OH

Sep 17-19        Decorative Stitch Quilt Shop, Shelby Township, MI

Oct 1-3             Fall EQ Academy, Perrysburg, OH

I hope you can join me for one of those dates.  Invest in yourself and take a class, you will learn so much.

I also travel to teach at shows, guilds and shops.  Check out my Classes page for my current offerings.

Happy Designing!

 

Free Tutorial – Anchor’s Away Quilt

Posted in Uncategorized by

Summer’s not over yet!  Make this fun nautical themed throw for your lake house, cottage or just to get in the summer livin’ frame of mind!  This is another design made with EQ8.  For this quilt, you can create those 45 degree diamonds in the interesting inset with a template or with careful rotary cutting OR you can use your Accuquilt GO and the 2 1/2″ strip cutter to whip them out in a flash.

Dies used in this design:

Anchors Away Quilt

Finished size is 48 1/2″ by 60 1/2″”

Materials

  • 2 yd Blue solid
  • 1 yd Red fabric for Anchor and binding
  • 7/8 yd White fabric
  • 1 yd Blue scraps (or use 4 fat quarters or 8 fat eighths)
  • 3 yd Backing fabric
  • 56″ x 68″ piece of batting
  • 1 – 14″ x 14′ light double sided fusible for Anchor applique
  • Anchor and Diamond Applique Templates

Directions

Cut Fabric:

Blue Solid

NOTE: Cut using the length of the 2 yards

  • 1 — 8 1/2″ X 60 1/2″ strip
  • 2 — 20 1/2″ x 60 1/2″ strips

Red Solid

  • 6 — 2 1/2″ X WOF strips for binding
  • 1 — 12 1/2″ square for Anchor applique

White Fabric

  • 100 — 2 1/2″ X 3 1/2′ 45 degree diamonds

Blue Fabrics

  • 100 — 2 1/2″ X 3 1/2′ 45 degree diamonds

Cutting the Diamonds

You can use the template provided to draw around and cut out the diamonds

OR

You can cut 2 1/2″ strips with a rotary cutter and then measure 3 1/2″ on the sides and use your 45 degree angle on your ruler to cut the diamonds

OR

You can use your GO! fabric cutter!

Dies used in this design:

This is the fastest and easiest way to get this done in a jiffy.  Let me show you how.

I have the Accuquilt Ready Set GO! Cutting System generously provided to me by Accuquilt.  I am an Accuquilt Go Getter and I write articles for their blog about quilting and die cutting.  You can see the system in the background of this picture.  I just pulled some blues from my stash to use in the cutter.

I like to press my fabric first for the die cutter so it is nice and smooth so i get more accurate cuts.

Next I fold or cut my fabric to best fit the die I am using, in this case, it is the GO! Strip Cutter-2½” (2″ Finished) 3 Strips Die (55014 or 55017).  When you place your fabric, make sure it is extending beyond the die cutting points.

Once your fabric is arranged, please the cutting mat over the die and fabric and insert into the machine.

Crank the handle to cut your fabric.

You get perfectly cut 2 1/2″ strips.  I used two layers of fabric, so I have six strips.  You can cut up to six layers of cotton fabric so this will work well.

Find your 45 degree line and carefully line up your strips.

When you line them up, make sure that you have the strip beyond the cutting line.

Now your diamonds are cut.  They measure 2 1/2′ x 3 1/2″.  Continue to cut your blue and white fabrics until you have the number of diamonds that you need.

This goes so fast, you will be ready to sit down and sew in no time.  Cookie Cat is helping out.  He likes to sleep in the top of my rolling cart and keep me company.

Assemble the Quilt top:

Start by sewing your diamond inset panel.

Keep in mind which way the diamonds are going for the strip, right or left.  The width of the row will be 2″ finished.  Alternate your blue fabrics with the white fabrics to assemble the striped rope inserts.  There will be nine rows of inserts.

   

In our EQ8 design, we had a repeating block showing 1/2 diamond blocks at the top and bottom. But when we combine the blocks, we can see how a full diamond is formed by the combined blocks.  We will sew using the full diamond shapes where those form.

I just string pieced the diamonds together until I had the columns completed.

I thought I would share the view out of my studio.  It is a gorgeous sunny day as I sew.

Be sure to align the points, the accurate diamonds really helps keep these together.  You will need to stitch nine columns of diamonds.  You should have 21 diamonds in a column or enough to measure 60 1/2″.  Press flat.

Once you have the diamond inset column together , sew the 8 1/2″ x 60 1/2′ blue panel strip to the left side of the insert.

Sew the 20 1/2″ x 60 1/2″ blue panel strip to the right side of the insert.

Prepare the Anchor applique.  Draw the anchor applique on the paper side of the double sided fusible.  you will need to fold it in half to match the template.  Press the fusible to the wrong side of the red fabric and cut out the Anchor.

Arrange the Anchor where you like it and then press it onto the quilt.

Using a close zig zag stitch, sew around the raw edges of the Anchor applique to secure it.

Finish the Quilt

  1. Create a quilt sandwich with the backing, batting and pieced quilt top.
  2. Baste the quilt layers together.  Quilt as desired.
  3. Add binding and finish.

Were you inspired to try this quilt?  Be sure to let me know your thoughts in the comments and share pictures with me on social media on Facebook or  Instagram.  Be sure to hashtag #LoriMillerDesigns so I see it!  And don’t forget to sign up for my blog updates to you get ideas like these right to your inbox.

Looking for the EQ8 Design Instructions?  You can find them HERE.

For more projects and tips and techniques on using EQ8, visit my Electric Quilt blog series EQ8 Lessons with Lori.

For more information on EQ8, go to Electric Quilt 8 Software.

Free Tutorial – DIY Wrapping Paper or Fabric

Posted in EQ8, Finished Projects, Gift Ideas by

Most of you know, I am an EQ8 fanatic and this time I used the quilt design software to create my own wrapping paper and my own fabric with the EQ Printable fabric sheets.   EQ allows you to export blocks and motifs as an image that you can then edit and print using the Photo Layout on the Image Worktable.  Don’t worry if you dont have EQ8, I will include PDF files of my homemade wrapping paper that you can use too.  In addition to the wrapping paper, I used the printed fabric to create a little drawstring bag.

I edited a block with a Vintage Sewing Machine, added some holly, and scaled it onto a sheet of paper and printed it out.

It is an 8 1/2″ x 11′ sheet of paper, but you can wrap some cute small gifts with it.

I also colored a block called Evergreen that was a mod looking pine tree and printed it out.

For this gift, I wrapped the main gift in white tissue paper.  Then I trimmed my diy wrapping paper and cut it in half.

Then I just matched up the print and taped them together in a long strip.

I used the strip and wrapped it around the package like an embellishement sleeve and then just added a coordinating bow on top.  This is a good way to use your cute designs when you are limited to your printer paper size.

Here are the PDF Files that you can use to print that I designed with EQ8.

LMD Holiday Vintage Sewing Machine

LMD Mod Evergreen

Next, I printed my cute holiday vintage sewing machines onto EQ Printable fabric sheets.  I printed two of them and then used them as fabric to create this cute drawstring bag.

DIY Fabric Drawstring Bag

Finished size is approx 6″ x 3″ x 7″

Note: Read through directions first before sewing.  Unless otherwise noted, use 1/4″ seam.

Materials

  • 2 —  8 1/2″ x 11″ printed fabric sheets
  • 2 —  8 1/2″ x 11″ fabric for lining
  • 2 —  2 1/2″ x 8 1/2″ strips of fabric for casing
  • 2 —  26″ pieces of ribbon for drawstring  (1/2″ or less)

Directions

Sew Casing

  1. Make a 1/4″ double rolled hem on each of the short ends of the casings.
  2. Fold wrong sides together and stitch.
  3. Roll the seam to the back so it will be hidden on the back side of the casings and press.
  4. Measure down 1 1/2″ from top of printed fabric and pin the casing down.  Stitch very closely on the top and bottom to secure the casing.  Backstitch at the beginning and end of your seam.  Sew both casings.

Sew Bag

 

  1. With right sides together, stitch the sides and bottom of the bag.
  2. Cut a 1 1/2″ square from each bottom corner of the bag.
  3. Pinch the bag together to box the corner and stitch across.
  4. Place the lining  pieces right sides together. Stitch the sides and bottom of the lining leaving a 2-3 inch opening in the bottom of the lining for turning.
  5. Box the corners of the lining in the same way as the outer bag.
  6. Leaving the lining the wrong side out, slip it over the bag aligning the top edges and seams.
  7. Stitch around the top.  Pull the whole bag right side out through the opening in the lining.  Stitch the hole in the lining closed.
  8. Tuck the lining into the bag.  Top stitch around the top of the bag.
  9. Thread the ribbon through both casings.  Start one from one side and the other from the opposite side.  Knot the end of the ribbons to hold them.
  10. Pull the drawstring to close the bag.

I used EQ Printables Inkjet Fabric Sheets.  There are several types of fabric sheets to choose from.  I really like them and I use them a lot for quilt labels.  The fabric holds the color very well and is pretty soft to the touch when you wash it.  You can get more information about them HERE.

Share pictures of your own DIY Wall Paper or Fabric!  Tag me on Facebook or Instagram @lorimillerdesigns

Looking for the EQ8 Design Instructions?  You can find them HERE!

For more projects and tips and techniques on using EQ8, visit my Electric Quilt blog series EQ8 Lessons with Lori.

For more information on EQ8, go to Electric Quilt 8 Software.

Free Tutorial – Pop Art Wall Quilt

Posted in EQ8, Finished Projects, Gift Ideas by

Greetings!  I am making this quilt for my son for the holiday, it is a picture of his cat, Oreo.  Being a 20 something young man, I wanted something a little more grown up but still fun.  This quilt is made by taking a picture of Oreo and editing it using EQ8 Quilt Design Software.  The edited pictures are then printed on EQ Printable Inkjet Fabric Sheets.  You can use the general tutorial with any picture of the same size but what makes it so much fun, is the ability to edit the picture to black and white and then add different background colors.  It makes this quilt reminiscent of the visual art created by Andy Warhol.  If you have not tried using the photo editing functions of the Image Worktable in EQ8, here is your chance.  Let’s make a Pop Art Wall Quilt.

Pop Art Wall Quilt

Finished size is 24″ x 30″

Materials

  • 9 —  8 1/2″ x 10 1/2″ printed fabric pictures
  • 1/4 yd black fabric for binding
  • 1 yd backing
  • 1 yd batting

Directions

Cut Fabric:

Black

  • 4 — 2 1/4″ strips

Print your edited  8″ x 10″ pictures onto Printable Fabric.  (Link for quilt design and photo editing at the end of post)  Be sure to follow manufacturer’s directions when printing.  I used EQ Printables Inkjet Fabric Sheets.  There are several types of fabric sheets to choose from.  I really like them and I use them a lot for quilt labels.  The fabric holds the color very well and is pretty soft to the touch when you wash it.  You can get more information about them HERE.

These are the sheets that I printed.  Then I trimmed them to 8 1/2″ x 10 1/2″ with a seam allowance.

I pieced them into a nine patch.  Arrange the colors how you like.

Quilt the Wall Quilt

 

 

Layer quilt top with the backing, batting and kitties quilt top.

Pin baste the quilt layers together.

Quilt as desired.  I used painters tape to mark horizontal lines and then I quilted about 1/2″ apart with my walking foot with a dark gray thread.

Then I pieced the black binding strips together and bound the quilt.  I need to make a hanging sleeve, but it is finished.

Here is a sneak peek at my work area.  As you can see, my new studio is still in progress but I just had to sew, it has been months of moving and unpacking.

Here is my original design from EQ8.  The colors are not quite as vivid when you print them on the fabric, but they are still eyecatching!

And here is the original picture of Oreo.  He had an issue with his ear, so he always has that rakish, debonair look.

Share pictures of your Pop Art Quilt!  Tag me on Facebook or Instagram @lorimillerdesigns

Looking for the EQ8 Design Instructions?  You can find them HERE!

For more projects and tips and techniques on using EQ8, visit my Electric Quilt blog series EQ8 Lessons with Lori.

For more information on EQ8, go to Electric Quilt 8 Software.

Published – Connect the Curves (Cirque)

Posted in Finished Projects, Published by

Used with permission from American Patchwork & Quilting® magazine. ©2018 Meredith Corporation. All rights reserved.

My Connect the Curves (Cirque) quilt has been published in the  December 2018 issue of American Patchwork & Quilting

There are a lot of amazing quilts in this issue and I am so proud to be a part of it.

As usual, I designed this bold quilt with Electric Quilt design software.  I started with a regular drunkards path block, super sized it and then made a few adjustments to create the swirling effect.

I used templates that I created with #EQ8 to cut out all of the curved pieces in my quilt.  I generously received beautiful fabric from American Made Brand fabrics.


Stitching the curves on these 10″ blocks is easier than you think because of the size.

I use a 3 pin method and stitch from the outside to the center.  Then I flip and stitch from the other end to the center adjusting the curve if needed.

The individual blocks  come together to create a 20″ wide swirling center.

Does this happen to you? I can piece all day in quiet, but as soon as I start quilting, I get a furry helper.  Cookie, you make it a little difficult to use the walking foot!

I tried some echo quilting around the curves of the center quilting about 1 ” apart to accentuate the motion.

Then I did some free motion feathers and free motion fill to finish up the negative space on the sides.   You know I love the texture!

I hope you enjoyed getting a little behind the scenes view of my process on this lovely quilt.

Happy Stitching!

Free Tutorial: Stardrop Table Topper

Posted in EQ8, Finished Projects, Home Accessories by

This fun Octagon shaped Stardrop Table Topper was designed with EQ8 Quilt Design Software by The Electric Quilt Company .  This tutorial takes that design and gives you the information to make it yourself.  This is a very easy beginner foundation pieced mini quilt but it is helpful to have some basic knowledge of paper piecing.  you will assemble eight units to combine to create the top of this little quilt.  I made this with gradations of aqua and teal solid cotton fabrics and the background is a lovely linen.  This is the perfect base for your table centerpiece.

Stardrop Table Topper

Finished size is approximately 24″ x 24″

Materials

  • 1/8 yd of light aqua cotton
  • 1/8 yd of medium aqua cotton
  • 1/8 yd of teal cotton
  • 1 yd for background, backing and binding
  • 28″ square piece of batting
  • Stardrop Template 1 Updated 2022
  • Stardrop Template 2
  • 16 sheets of Foundation Paper or Quilters Newsprint

Directions

Cut Fabric:

From light aqua, cut:

  • 8 — 4 1/2 ” x 5″ rectangles

From medium aqua, cut:

  • 8 — 5″ x 7″ rectangles

From dark teal, cut:

  • 8 — 5″ x 10″ rectangles

From the dark linen, cut:

  • 1 – 28″ square for the backing
  • 16 — 2 1/2″ x 6″ rectangles for top template background
  • 16 — 3″ x 7″ rectangles for bottom template background
  • 8 — 2″ x 11″ strips for bottom template background
  • 95″ x 2 1/4″ strips for binding (can be pieced together)

Paperpiecing

  1. Use a pencil to trace the foundation pattern once onto a lightweight copy or foundation piecing paper of your choice.  I used EQ Printables Foundation sheets for this project generously provided by EQ.
  1. Use a very short machine stitch, I use 1.8 mm so the paper will tear off easily later.
  1. To foundation paper piece, stitch fabric pieces to a foundation paper with the marked side of the paper facing up and the fabric pieces layered underneath. The resulting pieced unit is a mirror image of the foundation paper.

  1. Using the larger template and starting in the number order, place the first two fabric pieces, RST, on the back side of the foundation paper with the edges of the fabrics extending ¼” beyond the first stitching line. The first stitching line is between section A1 and A2.
  1. Holding the pieces in place, stitch from the top side on the line between the two areas, starting and stopping just past the seam allowances.
  2. Above,  you see the back side of the pieces we just stitched.
  3. Flip the piece back over and fold the paper back on the line you just sewed.
  4. Using a ruler, trim the seam to 1/4″. Be careful not to cut through your paper template.
  5. Fold the paper back and flip it over again.
  6. Open out the piece and press the seam. The right sides of the fabrics will show on the back side of the paper template.
  7. Continue to add pieces in order step by step until you have finished the bottom template.
  8. Trim the bottom template around the outside seam allowance on the paper.
  9. Use the same method to sew the top template pieces.
  10. Carefully sew the top and bottom foundation templates together.  You should have a total of 8 triangle shapes.
  11. Sew together the paper pieced shapes, two at a time, aligning seams and points.
  12. Then stitch together the pieces to form two halves.  Now you can sew together the two halves, aligning the center points and seams.
  13. Carefully tear off the foundation pattern when you have finished the block

Assemble the Stardrop Table Topper

  1. Make a quilt sandwich with the quilt top, batting and backing.
  2. Baste the quilt layers together.
  3. Quilt as desired.  I used some free motion feathers and leafy motifs in the triangles.
  4. Sew the 2 1/4″ strips together for the binding and add to the quilt.  You are finished!

I would love to see your Stardrop Table Topper Quilt, tag me on instagram @lorimillerdesigns.

Looking for the EQ8 Design Instructions?  This quilt was designed in two parts, follow the links below:

EQ8 Stardropper Table Topper Design – Part 1

EQ8 Stardropper Table Topper Design – Part 2

For more projects and tips and techniques on using EQ8, visit my Electric Quilt blog series EQ8 Lessons with Lori.

For more information on EQ8, go to Electric Quilt 8 Software.

Free Tutorial – Scrappy Toddler Tumbler Quilt

Posted in EQ8, Finished Projects, Home Accessories by

This tutorial is an adorable toddler quilt designed with EQ8 Software by The Electric Quilt Company .  Running about 45″ square, it’s a One Block quilt using the Tumbler shape.  I was able to use my Sizzix Bigz L Die Tumbler that is 5″ x 5″ to make my blocks but I also include templates if you don’t have a die cutter machine.

The super cute woodland animal print I had is the feature fabric and then I used fabric from my stash to give it that scrappy look.

This quilt was designed with the new updated Electric Quilt 8 design software.  This version is more intuitive and easy to use and still has all the great things you expect from Electric Quilt.

 

When I designed this little quilt, I used the one block design from Electric Quilt and it allowed me to edit the Tumbler shape and size in my design so it matched the tumbler blocks I die cut with my Sizzix cutter.  You can cut a lot of very accurate blocks in a short amount of time with a die cut machine.  Don’t worry, if you don’t have a machine, I also provide templates for you to use.

Toddler Tumbler Quilt

Finished size is approximately 40″ x 40″

WOF – Width of Fabric

Materials

  • 1 yd of main print fabric
  • 3/8 yd of Seven coordinating fabrics
  • 2   yds  Background print for binding, backing and some tumblers
  • 50″ x 50″ piece of batting
  • Sizzix Die Cutter
  • Sizzix Bigz L Tumbler Die 5″x 5″ unfinished, 4 1/2″ x 4 1/2″ finished
  • Or you can use this Tumbler Template

Directions

Cut Fabric:

From background fabric, cut:

  • 1 — 54″ x WOF Rectangle for pieced backing
  • 1— 54″ x WOF Rectangle for pieced backing, subcut into:
    • 1 – 12″ x 54″ strip for pieced backing
    • 4 – 2 1/2″ x 54″ strips for binding
    • Use remaining to cut approximately 14 tumbler blocks

From each of the seven coordinating prints, cut:

  • 14 Tumbler blocks

Assemble the Toddler Tumbler Quilt top

  1. Layout your tumbler blocks in a pleasing arrangement.  There are extra blocks so you can play with the placement until you like it.  There are 9 blocks in a row and 11 rows of blocks.
  2. Sew the tumbler pieces together in rows so the angled sides are on the left and right of the block.  I pressed the seams open.
  3. Then sew the rows together.  Press the seams open.
  4. Piece together the backing so that it is at least 4 inches larger than the quilt top all around.
  5. Make a quilt sandwich with the quilt top, batting and backing.
  6. Pin baste the quilt layers together.
  7. Quilt as desired.  I just straight line quilted about 1/2″ away from the seams.
  8. Sew the 2 1/2″ strips together for the binding and add to the quilt.  The angled sides are pretty gentle so you can just ease the binding around.  You are finished!

I would love to see your Toddler Tumbler Quilt, tag me on instagram @lorimillerdesigns.

Looking for the EQ8 Design Instructions?  You can find them HERE.

For more projects and tips and techniques on using EQ8, visit my Electric Quilt blog series EQ8 Lessons with Lori.

For more information on EQ8, go to Electric Quilt 8 Software.