Find the perfect quilting software for your needs. Compare features, pricing, and platforms to make an informed choice.
Choosing the right quilt design software can transform your quilting journey. Whether you're a beginner or experienced quilter, this comprehensive comparison will help you find the perfect tool for your creative process.
| Feature | Quiltler 3 | Electric Quilt 8 | Quiltography | PreQuilt |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Platform | iPhone & iPad & Mac | Windows & Mac | iPad only | Web browser |
| Price | Free + optional premium | $239.95 | $14.99 | $10-30/month |
| Touch-Optimized | ✓ Native iOS | ✗ Desktop only | ✓ iPad | △ Web touch |
| Custom Block Designer | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Built-in Patterns | ✓ 100+ | ✓ 1000+ | ✓ 180+ | △ Limited |
| Fabric Calculator | ✓ Automatic | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Fabric Library | ✓ Photo import | ✓ Extensive | ✓ | ✓ |
| Cloud Sync | ✓ iCloud | ✗ | △ Via iCloud | ✓ Auto-save |
| Community Sharing | ✓ Public gallery | △ Export only | ✗ | ✓ Pattern shop |
| PDF Export | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ | ✓ |
| Works Offline | ✓ Fully | ✓ | ✓ | ✗ Online only |
| Learning Curve | Easy | Moderate-Steep | Easy | Easy-Moderate |
Quiltler 3 is a modern, native iOS app designed specifically for iPhone and iPad. With intuitive touch controls, powerful design tools, and seamless iCloud sync, it offers professional quilting design capabilities without the desktop software price tag. Perfect for quilters who want to design anywhere, anytime.
Electric Quilt 8 is the most comprehensive desktop quilting software available. With thousands of blocks, extensive fabric libraries, and professional-grade features, it's been the industry standard for decades. Best suited for serious quilters who work primarily at a desk.
Quiltography is a well-established iPad app with a clean interface and solid feature set. It offers 180+ block templates and intuitive design tools specifically optimized for the iPad's larger screen.
PreQuilt is a browser-based quilting tool that works on any device with an internet connection. It offers unique features like randomization and digital coloring pages, making it popular with pattern designers.
Quiltler 3 combines the power of professional quilting software with the convenience and intuitive design of modern iOS apps. Design beautiful quilts on your couch, at quilt guild meetings, or in the fabric store - your projects sync seamlessly across all your Apple devices.
Start Designing Free on iOSFree to try • Works on iPhone & iPad • No credit card required
Consider where and how you want to design quilts. Do you prefer working at a desk, or do you want to design while sitting in your sewing room, at quilt guild meetings, or while shopping for fabric? Mobile apps like Quiltler 3 and Quiltography offer portability, while desktop software like EQ8 provides powerful features but requires you to be at your computer.
Different apps have different pricing models:
Consider your budget and how frequently you'll use the software. If you design occasionally, a free or low-cost option may be best. If you design professionally, the investment in comprehensive software pays off.
Match the app's features to your needs:
Some apps are easier to learn than others. Mobile-first apps like Quiltler 3 and Quiltography tend to have intuitive, gesture-based interfaces that feel natural immediately. Desktop software like EQ8 offers more power but requires more time to master. Consider how much time you want to invest in learning the tool before you can start designing.
Look for apps with active communities where you can find inspiration, get help, and share your designs. Quiltler 3's public gallery and EQ8's large user base offer different types of community engagement. Some quilters find community features essential, while others prefer to work independently.
Many quilters find that the best solution is using multiple tools for different purposes:
The key is choosing tools that fit naturally into your quilting workflow and inspire creativity rather than feeling like obstacles.
The best way to find your perfect quilt design app is to try them out. Most apps offer free trials or free versions so you can experience the interface and features firsthand.
Ready to start designing? Download Quiltler 3 free on iPhone or iPad and start creating beautiful quilts today. No credit card required, no commitment - just install and start designing.