LOL, last night i was coloring a potential layout for my Lake Superior quilt; DH says, "did you like coloring whenyou were young? You don't seem the type. Isn't there a program for that?"

I do believe there is a difference from being cheap and thinking of a way to do something in another way. Before I buy a pattern I do look it over to see if I can figure it out on my own (i.e.: Turning 20). Then there is buying the right tool to get it done (i.e.: the Twister tool). But I do applaud the people that can come up with an alternative.

I guess I just don't find patterns all that expensive to worry about it. I haven't really enjoyed making a couple of things that required specialty rulers, so I'm out on that for the most part. I have purchased a couple of higher priced patterns that were embroidery patterns or applique, but was happy with those.

I am a pattern junkie...of sorts. I'll buy patterns at the drop of a hat if they interest me. Now, specialty rulers...not so much. I, too, like not having to figure it out myself most of the time. Especially the yardage requirements. I'll be half way through a pattern that calls for a special ruler before admitting to defeat and buying the ruler. Most times it works in my favor...sometimes not so much.

LOL! I threw away my "I'm Cheap Badge" last year. I am not able to sew/quilt right now but I am stocking up slowly on things and am being very particular with what I buy. I am also on a strict budget. So far I have purchased the right tools and patterns for the projects that I a going to do.

I agree l dont like to be frustrated I would rather pay extra so my project would work out

I spent way too many years "making do with what I had". My DH worked very hard to be able to give me a life that I could do what I want without having to worry about where the money would come from. Now being a widow living alone, except for a Great Dane to keep me company, I buy what I feel will be a good value for me. Will I use a pattern more than once? Will that template do more than one thing? Last year I bought myself a HQ Avante, and love every minute of it. I quilt mostly for myself, and do some quilting for my close friends. But having a life changing health issue last fall, I have decided life is way too short to worry about an $8 pattern if I want it. My life is my quilting, and it keeps me sane. I am of the "If you want it and you can afford it, you should have it" frame of mind.

I am new to the board and have enjoyed all the questions and responses. Very helpful information for new or advanced quilter.

I have EQ7 and a husband who is willing to make templates for me. A picture is usually all I need. I love to figure out a block and if I can't figure it out my husband will help me.

Agree.....if I can't indulge myself a bit after all this time, who will! But, I confess to being a gadget lover.....started in my kitchen, now has spread out to my sewing cave.......

I am with you. yesterday I bought a confectioner sugar sifter you use to sprinkle the tops of cakes Now I have been doing this for years without it, but "thought" I needed it. So I am still buying gadgets for both, kitchen and sewing. Having fun with both.