I would like to know more about quilt pattern software...

Here are my questions:
1. Is there a program where you can scan in your fabric choices and use them to design a pattern?

2. are programs easy to use?

3. when you finish designing a pattern will the program calculate how much fabric you need to do a project if you give it dimensions of the completed project?

4. reccommendations and any general advice please!

Thank you so much for your help!

I use Quilt Design Wizard. I don't know about scanning your fabric into it but they have a large selection, I find something close to what I want. It's under $30.00 but I got mine with a 50% off coupon at Hancocks a few years ago. It has videos for learning how to use it. I really like this program.

EQ7 is the top-of-the-line software currently, and I think it will do everything you list. However, it's not that easy to use. Some people take to it like a duck to water; others struggle with the learning curve.

I started with Quilt Design Wizard, but it was so limiting that I went to EQ6 right away and upgraded to 7 as soon as it became available.

I don't think you can scan in your own fabrics with Quilt Design Wizard and you're limited to the blocks contained in the program - you can't draw your own or import them from "Dear Jane" or "Farmer's Wife Sampler" CD's.

There is a current thread just started on this subject here:
http://www.quiltingboard.com/t-129162-1.htm

I'm crazy about EQ7, but I have to admit that it isn't terribly intuitive and I have struggled with the learning curve, which seems rather steep at times.

If you want to design your own blocks and quilt layouts, I think EQ is the only way to go - especially if you want to draw your own applique.

If you just want to audition your own fabrics with existing blocks and easy layouts, and your budget is a factor, you might want to take a look at 1-2-3 Quilt! as a cheaper alternative that's still fairly customizable.

You can go to the search link at the top of this page and do a search for software and get a lot of different discussions. :)

EQ6 has limitied downloads, but the manual is much more user friendly than EQ7 and it would do all that you are wanting to do :D:D:D

thanks everyone...I will check out the options!