Quilt Pro 5, the latest version, is available for both PC and Mac platforms. Touted as a response to user input, this version offers robust design functionality.

System Requirements

To run Quilt Pro 5, either MacOS version 10.1.5 or higher or Windows 95/98/ME/NT4/2000/XP/2003 is required. You will also need I.E. 4.0 or higher, 800x600 display, and 256 color support (16 bit or higher is recommended) . Basic installation requires 50MB of disk space. This means essential software only and does not include fabric or embroidery libraries. An additional 200MB is needed for each.

Features

Quilt Pro 5 features a robust assortment of libraries, assistants and tools. It provides an impressive amount of functionality for moderately experienced and seasoned quilters alike.

Libraries

Block Library - This library features over 1500 blocks, replacing the Block Browser of earlier versions. Much simpler to use, blocks may be added with a single click.

Fabric Library - The fabric library may be sorted by color, pattern, or theme. This greatly simplifies finding the best fabric for your designs. Fabrics may be scanned and added to the library, as well.

Photo Library - Treasured photos may be scanned and added to the photo library. It is possible to rotate or resize photos as well. This library is a must for fans of memory quilts.

Quilt Gallery - The quilt gallery provides an easy starting point for customizing existing designs. Original designs may also be added, enabling quilters to build a sizable portfolio.

Embroidery - Over 2000 embroidery images are included. Images may be flipped, rotated or resized and placed upon blocks.

Design Assistants

Quilt-Pro Assistant - Upon startup, new information messages launch automatically. Users may customize this support to access as much or as little assistance as needed.

Scanning Wizard - This Wizard streamlines the process of scanning fabrics and photos into the appropriate libraries. Windows XP users may scan in BMP, JPG, and Tiff formats. BMP is the only format available for other systems.

Support - In addition to the Quilt Pro Assistant, this version includes an expanded User's Manual with helpful lessons. Additional help is available online.

Tools

Quilt Labels - Sample labels ready for customization are provided.

Rotate and "Scoot" - This tool allows free movement and exact placement of fabrics within a block.

Freehand Curve - This tool has been improved to provide smoother results and more accurately traced scanned images.

Conversion Tool - Curves may be converted into polylines, and lines converted to curves with this tool.

Polyline Tool - Creating polygons and tracing is possible with this tool.

Pros :

Quilt Pro 5 has clear improvements over earlier versions. It is easier to use, more accurate, and provides greater versatility. The wealth of design tools and functionally allows quilters a great deal of flexibility and creativity.

Overall operation is more stable on both Mac and Windows platforms as well. Several quilting project windows may be opened simultaneously without experiencing system errors.

Cons :

This is not a basic piece of software, so naturally, there is a learning curve. Using the available support, such as Quilt-Pro Assistant, can simplify the process.

System configuration effects functionality. For example, in Windows 95, 98 and ME, only BMP graphic format is available, fabric scooting and rotation is not available and embroidery patterns can only be placed on white backgrounds.

Mac users may run into specific issues, too. Earlier operating systems will only support Quilt Pro 3. Also, Quilt Pro 5's compatibility with the "Expose" function on OS-X is questionable.

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