Tag Archives: quilt design software

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.

Shop Now

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.

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.

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.

Shop Now

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.

Shop Now

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 – Autumn Aglow Quilt

Posted in Published by

Autumn Aglow by Lori Miller Designs

I think it is too early to think of fall, yet here I come with a colorful fall quilt call Autumn Aglow. This gorgeous quilt is reminiscent of falling leaves. The large block is simple to piece and when put together creates a unique tesselating quilt design. I love the cheery fall colors.

Featured in the September/ October 2021 issue of Fons and Porter’s Love of Quilting magazine, this issue is full of delightful fall, leafy projects… including my Autumn Aglow quilt.

I used blender cottons called Canvas by Deborah Edwards for Northcott. The blenders are perfect for creating the maple leaf pattern in the blocks.

I designed this quilt with EQ8 Quilt Design Software. It made it so easy to try different colors and draw up the blocks.

This quilt uses only four colors and you only make multiples of these two blocks for the design. Looks complicated but it is super easy.

Photo courtesy of Fons & Porter Love of Quilting Magazine, Quiltingdaily.com Copyright 2021

I used an allover edge to edge maple leaf design. The batting is Tuscany Cotton/Wool batting 80/20 generously provided by Hobbs. This is my favorite batting as the loft really shows off the quilting.

Pick up a copy of Fons & Porter’s Love of Quilting September/October issue for my pattern and more information.

Happy Stitching!

New Product! Add-On EQ8 Block Library – Accuquilt Qube Five Patch Fun

Posted in accuquilt, EQ8 by

The fun never ends! My newest Add-on EQ8 Block Library file is Five Patch Fun! I am excited to offer the next set of digital EQ8 Block Library files for the AccQuilt Qubes.  These files include 60 gorgeous Five Patch variation block designs that you can load into EQ8 Quilt design software. These convenient blocks make designing a breeze, and they are ready to cut out with speed and accuracy using your GO! Cutter.

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. Many of you have found the joy of using EQ8 to design your quilts.

These block designs work with the Accuquilt GO! Qube Mix and Match Die sets.  You can use the eight 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 Gorgeous Five Patch Blocks!

You receive 60 Five Patch Fun Block designs with new, creative and even familiar blocks. There are so many design possibilities in EQ8.

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

Since the Five Patch design is based upon a 5 x 5 grid, your finished block sizes will finish larger as indicated in the chart below.

The Five Patch Fun files are available in all Qube sizes.  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 you can use EQ8 to resize the quilt blocks.

Complete Instructions including Die Cutting Guide!

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

The Die Cutting Guide provides pictures of the Five Patch Fun 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.

Shop Now

Thank You!  And Happy Quilting!

More Products Available!

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

Visit Shop

New Product! Add-on EQ8 Block Library: Accuquilt BOB SET 2

Posted in accuquilt, EQ8, Patterns for Sale by

It’s Here! You have been asking for more BOB’s or Block on Board die Quilt Blocks and they are finally here. This Add-on Block Library for EQ8 contains another 20 fabulous 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 using these blocks and then use your AccuQuilt GO! cutter to cut it out with speed and accuracy.

This file contains SET 2 of the BOB block designs which includes 20 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:

  • Arkansas Traveler 12”
  • Blazing Star 12”
  • Cleopatra’s Fan 12”
  • Courtyard 10”
  • Crazy Quilt 6”
  • Crazy Quilt 10”
  • Double Wedding Ring 11.5”
  • Double Wedding Ring 12.5”
  • Dresden Point 5 – 6”
  • Dresden Point 20 – 12”
  • Dresden Round 5 – 6”
  • Dresden Round 20 – 12”
  • Flowering Snowball 12”
  • Kite 4”
  • Local Color by Bill Kerr 6” x 12”
  • Mariner’s Compass 12”
  • Robbing Peter to Pay Paul 7”
  • Spider Web 6”
  • Winding Ways 8”
  • Wonky Heart 6”
  • BONUS! Hunter’s Star 12”

I have added a bonus Hunter’s Star 12″ because the first set of BOB’s only had the Hunters Star 6″ piece, so now you can design with both.

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

AccuQuilt Block On Board (BOB)

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.  Be sure to go through my Informational Instructions as 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.

Shop Now

Happy designing with your AccuQuilt Block on Board Set 2 library blocks in EQ8!

If you liked the new AccuQuilt BOB Set 2 EQ8 Block Library Files, check out my other available Add-on Block libraries for EQ8 that work with AccuQuilt as well as GO! Friendly patterns for you to make. 

Visit Shop

Happy Designing!

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.

Shop Now

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!

New Product! EQ8 Block Library: AccuQuilt BOB Set 1

Posted in accuquilt, EQ8, Patterns for Sale by

 

It’s Here!!! Ever since I published my EQ8 block library files for the AccuQuilt GO! Qube Mix & Match sets, you have been requesting more.  You tell me how convenient they are to use with EQ8 and then cut out with your AccuQuilt GO! cutters.  They make your design process speedier and that it is so nice to have the block to match your BOB die.  So I decided to create block files for the AccuQuilt Block on Board (BOB) dies. 

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.

This file contains SET 1 of the BOB block designs which includes 20 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:

  • Bear’s Paw 14”
  • Chimney Sweep 10”
  • Churn Dash 9”
  • BIG Churn Dash 12”
  • Crossed Canoes 9″
  • Glorified Nine Patch 9”
  • Hattie’s Choice 8”
  • Hunter’s Star 6”
  • LeMoyne Star 9”
  • Log Cabin 12”
  • Maple leaf 8″
  • Morning Star 12”
  • Ohio Star 12”
  • Pineapple 10”
  • Snail’s Trail 12”
  • Snail’s Trail 8″
  • Snowball 6”
  • Spool 6”
  • Starry Path 9″
  • Storm at Sea 9”

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.

Shop Now

Happy designing with your AccuQuilt Block on Board Set 1 library blocks in EQ8.

If you liked this EQ8 Block Library File, check out my other available files that work with AccuQuilt.  See the complete line of products available!

Visit Shop

I appreciate your feedback and suggestions on this product.

Happy Designing!

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 – 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 – EQ8 Designing More Quilts

Posted in EQ8, Published by

I am honored to have a Chapter in the new EQ8 book, Designing More Quilts from the Electric Quilt Company.  I have been partnering with the Electric Quilt Company to share quilt design lessons on their DoYouEq,com blog for both EQ Mini and EQ8 for a couple of years.  Many of you have made those designs with the tutorials I offer right here on my Lori Miller Designs Blog.

I have the privilege of joining many EQ Experts who share their Quilt Design Tricks in this book.  They include lessons on creating Medallion quilts, panel quilts, baby block quilts and more.

        

I wrote Chapter 3 Creating Modern Quilt Layouts with Alternate Gridwork.  Wow, that’s a mouth full but it includes a chapter jam packed with ideas to use EQ8 to create modern elements like asymmetry, exaggerated scale, negative space and minimalism in your quilt designs.

There are lots of tricks to creatively use borders, horizontal layouts, whole top designs and clever block placement to create beautiful designs.

 

I finish with ideas to use the built-in Irregular grids provided by EQ8 to add to your design toolbox.

It’s a fun lesson if you are exploring modern quilt design concepts using the tools that came with your software.  My lesson is just a jumping off point to highlight design tips you might not have thought of or tools with EQ8 you have not used before.

EQ8 has other books that might be of interest to you.

     

A couple of my favorites are the EQ 8 Block library book (You can peruse all of the free blocks that come with the software at your leisure, it is great inspiration too!)

and the first design book, EQ8 Designing Quilts.

For more information on the EQ8 Designing More Quilts book, you can visit Electric Quilt HERE.

Happy Quilt Designing!

 

Free Tutorial – Sweetheart Quilted Zip Pouch

Posted in EQ Mini, Finished Projects, Gift Ideas by

Love is all around.  The free tutorial for this month designed with EQ Mini Software by The Electric Quilt Company is a lovely, Sweetheart Zip Pouch.  Yes, you can design lots of quilty things with EQ Mini, even a pouch!  This uses a horizontal row quilt as a base but we sized it down to pouch size and added some half drop blocks with a center heart.  The heart block is one of the free blocks that comes with EQ Mini.  This generous pouch is sized 8″ x 11″ and is ready for you to fill with all your Valentine goodies.  A whole bag of chocolate would fit in there! The zipper is super easy to put in too, I promise.

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EQ Mini is the new scaled down, simpler version of EQ7 quilt design software.  This program was created for quilters who are just getting started using software for quilt design.  EQ Mini will help you create, edit, share, and print patterns and yardage for your quilt designs.

Sweetheart Quilted Zip Pouch

Finished size is 8″ x 11″.

Materials

  • 1/4 yd dark pink print
  • 1/8 yd of light pink print
  • 1/4 yd of grey background fabric
  • 3/8 yd Lining fabric
  • 3/8 yd batting
  • 12″ zipper

Directions

Cut Fabric:

Light Pink

  • 2 — 2 1/2″ x 3 3/4″ rectangle (A)
  • 2 — 1 1/2″ x 5 3/4″ strip (C)
  • 2 — 1 ” x 2″ zipper tab pieces

Dark Pink

  • 4 — 1 1/2″ x 5 3/4″ strip (B)
  • 2 — 2″ x 12 1/2″ strips (G)
  • 1 — 6″ x 12 1/2″ rectangle (H)

Grey Background

  • 2 — 5 ” square (D)
  • 2 — 5″ square (E)
  • 4 — 3 1/2″ x 6 1/2″ rectangles (F)

Muslin

  • 1 — 13″ x 21″ rectangle

Lining

  •  2 — 12 1/2″ x 10 1/2″ rectangles

Piece the outside of the pouch

Hint:  Because you need to match seams, be sure to keep an accurate 1/4″ seam allowance.

  1. Subcut the 5″ background squares (D), diagonally into quarters.
  2. Subcut the 3″ background squares (E), diagonally in half.
  3. Sew the quarter (D) Triangle to the right side of the light pink rectangle(A).
  4. Sew the light pink strip (C) in the center of each dark pink strip (B).
  5. Attach the top of the heart to the bottom of the heart keeping the left sides even.
  6. Sew the background triangles (E) to each side of the bottom of the heart.  Be sure to overlap at the bottom point so that you have a 1/4″ seam allowance.
  7. Now sew two of the remaining background triangle (D) pieces to the top right and left sides of the heart.  Start stitching at the top points of the heart. Press.  Discard leftover piece.
  8. Center and trim the heart block to 6 1/2″ square.
  9. Make the second heart block.
    sweetheart-pouch
  10. Sew a background rectangle (f) to each side of the heart.
  11. Sew one dark pink strip (G) to the top of each block.
  12. Sew the dark pink rectangle (H) to the bottom of one heart block.
  13. Sew the bottom of the other heart block to the other side of the dark pink rectangle (H).  One heart is facing up, one is facing down.

Quilt the outside of the Pouch

  1. Make a quilt sandwich with the muslin on the bottom, then the batting, then your pieced pouch top face up.
  2. Pin baste the quilt layers together.
  3. Quilt as desired.  Trim excess batting and muslin.
  4. Carefully cut the quilted piece in half to make two – 12 1/2″ x 10 1/2″ pieces.
  5. From the bottoms of the outside pouch pieces and the lining pieces, cut a square out of each corner that is 1 1/2″ high x 1 1/2″ wide.

Finish the pouch

  1. Fold each 1″ x 2″ zipper tab in half matching the short ends, with wrong sides together, so the tabs measure 1″ x 1″.  Press.
  2. Move zipper pull to center of zipper.  Using a ruler or cutting mat, align the tabs as shown.
  3. Open the tab and sew on the center fold through the tab and zipper, ensuring the zipper teeth at the open end are aligned together.  Backstitch again across the center through the zipper teeth to secure.  Repeat on the other end of the zipper ensuring the tab placement and measurements.
  4. Trim off any excess zipper leaving 1/4″ seam allowance.  Zipper and fabric tabs should measure 12 1/2″ long.
  5. Open the zipper half way.
  6. Place the zipper face down, right sides together, along the top edge a heart section.  Align the ends and the top of the zipper.
  7. Layer a lining piece, right side down over the zipper and pin all three layers in place.
  8. Using a zipper foot, stitch approximately 1/4″ from the edge of the zipper.  When you get to the zipper pull, stop with the needle down in the fabric.  Lift up the presser foot and gently open or close the zipper to move the zipper pull out of the way to continue sewing across the top of the pouch.
  9. Open the zipper seam and press pouch and lining away from zipper.  Top stitch through all layers of fabric close to the zipper.
  10. Repeat for the other side of the zipper.
  11. Open the zipper all the way so you will be able to turn the pouch right side out.
  12. Open the pouch and match the quilted heart sections and lining sections, right sides together.
  13. Pushing the zipper to the lining side, stitch the sides of the pouch and lining.  Stitch the bottom of the pouch.  Stitch the bottom of the lining leaving a 3-4 inch opening for turning.
  14. Pinch the bag  and lining corners aligning the seams and stitch across the opening to box the corners.
  15. Turn the bag right side out with the lining hanging out.  Tuck in the raw edges and stitch the lining closed.
  16. Tuck the lining inside the bag and you are finished.


Here you can see the fun fabric I used for the inside lining.  It was in the bargain bin off season and I snapped it up.  I think it is perfect for this little zip pouch.

Oreo decided to direct the photo shoot.  He is pretty demanding.

Variation Suggestions

 

sweetheart-pouch-var

  • Use traditional red and white with a pink accent.
  • Try using sweet valentine seasonal prints and fill them with sweet treats and goodies.

This Sweetheart quilted Zip Pouch is so versatile.  It would certainly make the perfect gift for a dear friend or family member.  I would love to see your Sweetheart Pouch, tag me on instagram @lormillerdesigns.

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

For more projects and tips and techniques on using EQ Mini, visit my Electric Quilt blog series EQ Mini Friday Fun.

For more information on EQ Mini software, go to EQ Mini.

New Gig: EQ Mini Friday Fun with Lori

Posted in EQ Mini by

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I am so honored to be the host of EQ Mini Friday Fun with Lori. This is a blog series devoted to sharing, teaching, and providing information the new scaled down, simpler version of EQ7 quilt design software.  This program was created for quilters who are just getting started using software for quilt design.  EQ Mini will help you create, edit, share, and print patterns and yardage for your quilt designs.  EQ Mini was created by The Electric Quilt Company.  You can find my Friday Fun on the DoYouEQ.com blog.

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I was introduced to EQ Mini when I volunteered to beta test the software before it was released.  I was so impressed with the easy flow and friendly beginner aspects of the software.  I love the colored step by step tabs that let you easily work to create and edit a design.  And even though it is a Mini version of the Electric Quilt 7 software, it is still robust enough to offer a ton of design possibilities. It contains a block library of 300 pieced and appliqué blocks that can be set in 4 layout styles, there are 8 different border styles and a fabric library of over 3500 scanned fabrics to use to make your designs exactly how you want them.  There are a slew of add on blocks you can purchase as well as fabric stash libraries to add even more options for your software.

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Each month I will share tips and techniques, tutorials, design project skill builders, and maybe even a little show and tell of what I am working on in my studio.  Head on over to doyoueq.com for My helpful EQ Mini designs posts, then come back here.  I will share take those designs and share tutorials to help you transform the design into beautiful stitched projects.