In this software package from the makers of Electric Quilt 5, quilters begin the design process from pre-selected layouts rather than by selecting blocks. While the supplied designs are the starting point, quilters can add their own customized touches to each project.

Projects are set up in a four-step process. The first step is project selection. There are 30 created by authors and quilt designers Cori Derksen and Myra Harder from which to choose. Next, select from 105 blocks and a large array of fabrics to create a unique design from the supplied layout. Afterwards, print out blocks, patterns, templates and quilts. Finally, sew your project using the step-by-step paper piecing instructions.

The fabric selection process is fairly unique. Users select a design style from a collection of black and white swatches. Resulting fabrics of all colors containing a similar design are then displayed. This allows quilters to vary their quilt's print size and create attractive results.

Although this software runs roughly the same cost as a book of patterns, it does supply more helpful information in addition to 30 projects. It is a nice way to learn-as-you-do.

System Requirements

- Windows 98 / 2000 / ME / XP
- 400 MB hard drive space
- CD-ROM drive
- 64 MB RAM
- 16-bit/high color monitor capable of 800x600 resolution
- Windows Media Player
- Internet Explorer 5.01 or higher
- Adobe Acrobat

Features

- help videos
- paper-piecing instructions
- 30 projects
- a printable user manual with fun lessons

Pros :

This is a fantastic resource for those new to paper piecing or anyone unsure of their design abilities. The software focuses upon developing the paper piecing technique in addition to some basic design. The videos and written instructions are extremely helpful and informative.

The manual is supplied on CD in Adobe Acrobat's PDF format. In addition to the information it includes, there are also links to additional online material. Searching through the manual provides more thorough results since there is access to a broader range of information.

Cons :

There are many aspects of this design software that are pre-set. The quilt layout, quilt size, number of borders, total number of blocks used and the number of blocks in each row cannot be altered. As a result, this software may not carry great appeal for seasoned quilters or those who prefer a great deal of design freedom.

Yardage calculations can be a bit tricky. Although it is possible to change block sizes within any project, it is important to remember the quilt size itself is constant in this program. Fabric requirements generated for all projects are always based upon this set size. Fabric calculations are generally on the liberal side, so doubling the numbers in hopes of calculating fabric for a quilt twice as large results in quite a lot of excess fabric.

The menuing system in Town & Country differs slightly from that used in EQ, and it is somewhat inconvenient. Choices now appear on the right, displaying only three items at a time. Users need to look for the "more" indicator for additional information. A menu's text, in addition, is no longer used as the link. Instead, the arrow next to the text activates the link.

The largest drawback to this package is the lack of interface with EQ5. This is rare, as most EQ products provide access blocks and fabrics, if not much more.

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