Thanks Joyce. I think I will get the software. I own the book for a while, but don't know how to start. Can I use my own scrap to do it?

allisonchen1112 wrote:
Well, personally for me... I LOVE paper piecing. So whenever I have a choice, I will do paper piecing. So I think you can choose whatever method you prefer.

Some of the blocks have tiny pieces and for me, paper piecing is easier.

You can do that w/o the software by making your own sections and tracing them from the book. It is just that on the software, you can click 'print patterns' and choose foundation piecing and it works at the sections and spacing and prints it for you. Make sure the sections make sense to you before printing b/c a few blocks I have redone from what the software suggested.

Several blocks have piecing and hand applique as well. I get the piecing (usually foundation piecing) done and the applique ready and then have them ready for moments when I can do handwork.

Joyce

Joyce,

Thanks so much for answering my question. May I know which one is easier to make for Dear Jane quilt, paper piercing or rotary cutting method. Which one will you recommend?

As far as where I am in the process....

short pause for

So with the Block of the Months we are getting 8 regular blocks and 2 triangles every month. So I have done Jan - Mar so far... the first 24 blocks and 6 triangles if that makes sense. We are working in order of the quilt so started with A-1, A-2, etc. Top triangles reading left to right.

However, they accidentally sent us the April 09 blocks instead of April 08. But I want to keep on target so those are next on my list. I haven't gone over it or printed patterns out yet so don't know which blocks are next.

On the software, you can print out paper piecing (foundation piecing may be what you call it) where you stitch on the paper. There is also a hand piecing option. This has you print the pattern with the pieces including a 1/4" seam (or ANY seam allowance size you choose!) and the pieces are spread apart with room to cut them out. Another option is to print instructions for rotary cutting the pieces.

Keep asking if this isn't enough. I just got home from a 9 hr trip to my parents so my brain is foggy!

Joyce

Hi, I do not have the kit....so how can I get started? And which one is everyone making now?

I'm behind too, I figure this quilt will take years to make so I am not in a hurry and I want to enjoy the process. I have found I really like the CD, it is so easy to print out the pattern if you are going to hand piece, rotary cut or paper piece. Happy to have you join the group.

Thanks Joyce. What is the difference of paper piercing and hand piercing pattern?

Hi Allison! I love the CD!! You won't be disappointed.

It is so easy to print out your paper piecing patterns and be ready to go. Or the patterns for hand piecing! I only use the book for reference and for the applique patterns.

I really think they should only be sold together at this stage but I guess that would make it look more expensive.

I got my book & software from ebay if you are willing to go that route.

Glad you joined us! Several of us are in a block of the month working on Jane that started in January. We get 10 blocks a month. I'm behind but can still catch up.

Joyce

Hi, everyone, can I join DJ now? What do I need? I have the book, but not the CD. Do I need the CD?

I'm back girls!!

I finished my Feb blocks yesterday and started on March. Oh Boy!! I did the easy first one w/ paper piecing and have 3/4 of the next one reverse appliqued. I hope it is OK. Those points on the diamonds are tiny and sharp! B4 & B5

I'm so glad to have this going again. My goal is to be done with Mar-Apr-May before June comes.

I'm heading out to quilt shops with a friend today so that takes out today for sewing! I'm making some emb pillows for said friend's birthday next week and also have to squeeze in 2 great niece quilts. Hmmm....

I haven't been following this thread and don't know if you are still here, but I would most definately recommend the CD.

Before EQ came out with their DJ software, I had most of all the blocks , but not the triangles, drafted by hand on my regular electric quilt software. Even though, I have received much benefit from the software. As someone said earlier, with DJ, you find yourself doing a lot of paper piecing. With the DJ software, you can easily print out the paper pattern. For me, the price of the software is well worth it in my time savings.

With that said, the DJ software does not let you re draw the blocks. I find that quite limiting and I frequently re-draft the block in regular EQ.

Good Luck, enjoy your DJ journey.

Dogquilter, I am looking forward to seeing your blocks. I keep saying that I am going to get mine out of their shoebox, but other things keep getting in line first!

Anne in Illinois

I am almost finished with March. I haven't gotten my April fabrics yet. I will be posting a photo of my latest blocks soon.

I received my March fabric yesterday, another wonderful collection of civil war fabrics. Can't wait to cut into them. I still have a couple February blocks. How is everyone else coming along?

I really like the CD for printing out the patterns. You are able to choose between different formats, foundation, templates or rotary cut. You are also able to design and place your own blocks. My personal feelings, it is totally worth it.