You’ve probably heard about our new, and upcoming products from author and quilt historian, Barbara Brackman: The third edition of Encyclopedia of Pieced Quilt Patterns book and a new version of BlockBase software. 
What you may not know is what exactly these products are, or why you’d want them! Let us explain each one…
The Encyclopedia Book
Summary: The Encyclopedia is a reference primarily on how to identify quilt blocks. In the intro to the book, Barbara explains that she used 20th century magazines and articles, mainly between 1920 and 1950, and mostly from the midwest, for her research. Her goal was to put a name with each block and find when it was first published. This book is the result of all her hard work! It is organized like an encyclopedia and a great way to figure out the name of a block.
Even if you’re not in search of a specific block, any quilter would find inspiration flipping through the 500+ pages of beautiful blocks in this book.
What’s new in this third edition: 161 new blocks have been added, plus there are now line drawings and sample color suggestions for each of the 4,000+. Oh, and it’s all IN COLOR! This is a wonderful upgrade from the previous editions, take it from our friends Alex Anderson, Judy Martin, Jinny Beyer, and more (read reviews).
How you can use it: Look up block designs by name, search by layout and construction information to find the name of the pattern in a historic quilt, or just browse the pages until you find the quilt block perfect for you next project!
The line drawings make it easy to see how the historic block was constructed, so you can draft your own pattern. The color suggestions show you how the light, medium, and dark values were placed in the original publication. (If you don’t want to draft the blocks yourself, check out BlockBase below–we’ve done all the drafting for you!)
Why you’ll LOVE it: 4,000+ pieced quilt blocks, illustrated with both a line drawing and sample color suggestions, plus a detailed identification system to help you find blocks (view sneak peek photos!)
Available date: December, 2020
Price: $59.95 Buy Now
BlockBase Software
BlockBase is still in the development stage, but here’s a sneak peek!
SEE OUR TOP 10 FAVORITE FEATURES HERE!
Summary: BlockBase is the companion software to the Encyclopedia! It is a standalone program, available as a download, for both Windows and Mac operating systems. It includes every block found in the Encyclopedia (4000+ blocks!) that can be printed at any size. Print templates, rotary-cutting charts, or foundation patterns. You can also view the historical information for each block and search for blocks using a variety of specialized search tools. Optional: If you own EQ8, you can link the BlockBase blocks so you can use them in your EQ designs!
What’s new in this revised version: 161 new blocks have been added and we’ve maximized the block view so you can see more blocks on your screen at a time. We have also made it easier to view source information for each block without having to dig for it. Blocks have been redrawn to make them more pieceable using modern sewing techniques. Lots of printing enhancements for rotary cutting, templates, and foundation patterns!! (The printing options are even better than what’s in EQ8!) This new version is formatted as a download rather than a CD. Oh, and it works on Macs!
How you can use it: This software is your ultimate printing tool–print templates, rotary-cutting charts, and foundation patterns for 4000+ pieced blocks at any size you need! Browse the blocks for inspiration, or search for specific names, sources, or block styles. It’s as simple as selecting a block and clicking print. Optional: Link BlockBase to EQ8 and use the blocks in your quilt designs!
Why you’ll LOVE it: Print templates, rotary-cutting charts, and foundation patterns for any of the 4,000+ blocks at ANY SIZE YOU WANT! Easily view historical information for each block and search for specific names and styles. Plus, if you have EQ8, you can link all the blocks so you can use them in your EQ designs!
Price: TBD. BlockBase+ is coming in Spring, 2021. Sign up for our emails to be notified of its release!
Frequently Asked Questions about the Encyclopedia and BlockBase
When will the Encyclopedia book and BlockBase software be available?
Pre-orders for the book are Oct 1 – Nov 24, 2020. The book will ship by December 1, 2020. We hope to have BlockBase software out in Spring 2021. Customers who pre-order the book will receive special savings on BlockBase when it’s available. Discount will be applied automatically. These products are sold separately.
How much will the book and BlockBase software cost?
The Encyclopedia is $59.95. It will be offered at 30% off at ElectricQuilt.com through November 24, 2020. BlockBase pricing is TBD. Please subscribe to our email list and/or follow us on social media to get all the details as we have them.
Will you be taking pre-orders?
You can pre-order the book October 1 – November 24, 2020. Please subscribe to our email list and/or follow us on social media to get all the details as we have them. BlockBase will be available in 2021
Is there upgrade pricing for BlockBase software or the Encyclopedia book?
If you own previous versions, both are still great products! We plan to offer special, introductory pricing on both products. This limited-time introductory offer will be similar to an upgrade discount.
Can I purchase more than one copy?
Yes. One copy of the book per order. Please place additional orders for additional copies.
Can I purchase either product from my local quilt shop?
Yes, your quilt shop will be able to purchase both products directly from EQ or from their favorite distributor and sell them in their shop. Start asking for them!
I live in the EU. Will I be able to purchase the new BlockBase software?
Yes, you would purchase BlockBase software in the physical format and have it shipped to you. We are working to get the software and book distributed overseas to reduce the shipping cost for you.
I do not live in the United States. Will the Encyclopedia book be available for purchase from resellers in my area?
We hope to have both products distributed in other countries.
What exactly is the Encyclopedia of Pieced Quilt Patterns book?
This book is a reference primarily on how to identify quilt blocks. In the intro to the book, Barbara explains that she used 20th century magazines and articles, mainly between 1920 and 1950, and mostly from the midwest, to attempt to put a name with a block and when it was first published. This book is the result of all her research. It is organized like an encyclopedia and a great way to figure out the name of a block. With SO many blocks to look at in this book, it’s also a very inspirational tool for designing your own quilts.
Is the Encyclopedia book digital or printed?
It is a printed, 4lb book. It has 522 full-color pages. The book is 8.5” x 11” soft cover with inside flaps.
In what format will BlockBase software be available?
BlockBase software will be a download from The Electric Quilt Company website. A gift option will be available in a physical format.
How is this third edition of the Encyclopedia book different from the first and second editions?
The book content does not stray much at all from the 1993 edition. One of the main enhancements is that the blocks are displayed in full color with a line-drawing version as well. The line drawing gives you the option to view the block’s piecing more easily, while not being distracted by the way it’s colored. Plus new blocks!
Are there any new blocks in the Encyclopedia book and BlockBase software?
Yes! Barbara has added 161 new blocks to this version! The new blocks are included in the book and in the BlockBase software.
Do I need the new Encyclopedia book if I have an older version?
That’s completely up to you! The same great content is included in the new version so if you love your original version of the book, terrific!
Do I need the new BlockBase software if I have the older version?
Again, it’s completely up to you. The new version has been improved from the original to maximize the block view so you can see more blocks on your screen at a time. We have also made it easier to view source information for each block without having to dig for the information. Searching has been enhanced too! Blocks have been redrawn to make them more pieceable! And 161 new blocks have been added! Plus, lots of printing enhancements for rotary cutting, templates, and foundation patterns!! We will update the BlockBase product page with more feature enhancements as we have them.
Is EQ required for BlockBase?
No. BlockBase is a standalone program for Windows or Mac computers. If you do own EQ8, you can link all the BlockBase blocks to the EQ8 Block Library!
Have a question not answered above? Contact us.
10-12-2020
11:22 am
Since the Blockbase software is still in development, I have a request. I was disappointed to read “Blocks have been redrawn to make them more pieceable using modern sewing techniques.” Many quilters might appreciate that, but those of us who value Barbara Brackman’s encyclopedia for identifying, discovering and/or recreating antique quilt blocks as they were originally designed would REALLY appreciate if you would include the authentic, original block designs in addition to the simplified versions. One of the things I love about EQ8 is that I can print out traditional piecing templates or foundation paper piecing patterns so that even the most complex antique block designs are attainable. Have you redrafted the block designs in the book as well as in the software? Still, it would be frustrating to have to purchase the new book and the new software, and then every time I want to use a block from the new Blockbase I have to look it up in the book to see whether you’ve changed it or not and then change it back myself, every single time. There are tons of these “simplified” patterns available on the Internet, in books and magazines. I really value Barbara Brackman’s Encyclopedia as one of the few resources that documents and preserves the rich and complex history of quilt making.
10-12-2020
11:33 am
Hi Rebecca,
We have done our best to replicate Barbara’s hand-drawn blocks for the illustrations in the book knowing that its focus is to identify block names based on Barbara’s scheme, which does rely on those seam lines.
As far as the blocks in the software go, we have, indeed, added seam lines in some cases. If a block is pieceable by today’s standards, we did not change it. In other words, if the block included y seams, we did not change it to make it easier.
Because you also own EQ8, it would be very easy to delete the extra seam lines to get back to the vintage block you enjoy. The book will have the original blocks as Barbara drew them in the first edition. If you have further questions, feel free to contact us directly. Thanks for your interest!
10-12-2020
2:18 pm
What will be the cost of the Blockbbase software?
10-12-2020
3:38 pm
Hi Judith, the price of BlockBase has not yet been determined. Sign up for our emails to be notified or check back in Spring 2021. Email signup is here: https://electricquilt.com/newsletter-signup/
10-12-2020
5:38 pm
Will the new BlockBase software overwrite the old software? Or will I be able to have both versions on my PC? (Like having several working versions of EQ on my PC.)
10-13-2020
7:28 am
Hi Kay, this version will not overwrite your previous version. You will be able to have both versions installed. Thanks for your interest!
10-12-2020
9:13 pm
I this a Print-On-Demand book?. Illustrations and text of POD books are not as crisp as books printed on traditional printing presses, this is the reason that I ask.
10-13-2020
7:30 am
Hi Jay! No, this book is not being printed on demand. It’s being commercially printed so the quality will be great for all illustrations, text, and photos!
10-15-2020
8:45 pm
I’m interested but wonder if you’re shipping to Aust and what it would cost.
Thanks, Lynda
10-19-2020
9:32 am
Yes we can ship to Australia, but as with all our shippable products, any destination outside of the U.S. using any carrier, is extremely expensive for our small company. This book is no exception at 4 pounds. Be aware that we will be shipping to our distributors and wholesalers at our earliest opportunity. We urge you to ask for this book at your local quilt shop or preferred online reseller. We anticipate that you will have several options available for purchasing in the future. Many of these international options will be better than what we can offer directly from our website.
10-15-2020
9:38 pm
I would like to know if this will be available to buy in Australia as shipping and Money exchange make every thing so expensive for us we need a distributor here.
10-19-2020
9:32 am
Hi Janine, Yes we can ship to Australia, but as with all our shippable products, any destination outside of the U.S. using any carrier, is extremely expensive for our small company. This book is no exception at 4 pounds. Be aware that we will be shipping to our distributors and wholesalers at our earliest opportunity. We urge you to ask for this book at your local quilt shop or preferred online reseller. We anticipate that you will have several options available for purchasing in the future. Many of these international options will be better than what we can offer directly from our website.
10-28-2020
6:16 am
I have the Encyclopedia pre-ordered, I’m even more excited now that I can actually purchase Block Base for Mac, this is AWESOME news to me!
10-30-2020
2:57 pm
I would like to know if you could use it with the EQ7. And what about the EQ8upgrade. I been away from all of it. Thanks a lot.
11-02-2020
9:46 am
Hi Maria, BlockBase is a standalone program but the blocks can be linked to EQ8. The regular price of EQ8 is $239.95, but EQ7 owners can upgrade to EQ8 for $99.95. Details are here: https://electricquilt.com/online-shop/upgrade-from-eq7-to-eq8/
11-11-2020
12:36 pm
What if I do not own any of the EQ programs.
IS this book good for me, I love old block history. I am not clear if the book and the bookcase software come together or separate. I understand that I can print any block in the book if I have the Bookcase software.
11-11-2020
12:48 pm
EQ is not required for either of the products.
The book and BlockBase are sold separately. Feel free to use our Live Chat at ElectricQuilt.com during business hours if you have any more questions!
11-16-2020
10:42 am
I have old BlockBase2 (gold & brown CD) software, I love using it. I wonder if the new Block Base software still includes features; “add block to (BlockBase) Project”, which I can save as a PJ file? display “Quick Quilt”? search by wildcard, and the “find in BlockBase” tool? And export Metafile? Thank you for any information, these are some favorite features.
(PS – I wonder if there are new special printing features something like “Print Accuquilt” where it would just show a list of dies keyed to a key block and a chart / list of block sizes? …Now I’m just brainstorming.)
11-16-2020
12:20 pm
Great questions, Karen! The new BlockBase+ will include a new and improved “quick quilt” option that will let you preview the selected block in more than just one quilt layout! The search functionality has also been improved, but yes, you will be able to search similarly to the old Wildcard search. Yes, “Find in BlockBase” still exists!
Add to Project has become “Add to Favorites”. You will be able to click a button on any block to add to and remove from Favorites very easily. This is a great way to access your most frequently used blocks! Since all the blocks in BlockBase+ will link to your EQ8 (if you own EQ8), we did eliminate saving BlockBase+ projects.
Instead of Export as Metafile, we are planning to implement Export as JPG, PNG, and SVG!! (I believe this is the first time we’ve mentioned this! Gasp!)
11-16-2020
11:14 am
Is it possible to edit blocks from Block Base in EQ8?
11-16-2020
11:26 am
Yep, just like all the other blocks in EQ8!
11-21-2020
1:59 pm
What version of Mac will the software require?
11-23-2020
9:04 am
Big Sur will be the latest when BlockBase is released, but I’m not sure how many versions back will support it. Check the System Requirements when BlockBase+ is released.
11-22-2020
6:24 pm
HI!
I also live in Australia, and the shipping from your site to here is $75 US dollars. I’m delighted to hear that you’ll be sending the book to our local distributors, but that means we’ll miss the special pricing for the BlockBase in the Spring because we didn’t pre-order from you directly.
Would you consider offering that same discount to those of us overseas when the time comes?
Thanks very much,
Lara
11-23-2020
9:02 am
I’ll forward your request Lara. Thanks for your interest!
11-23-2020
8:49 am
I read the comments and replies provided so far. I’m thrilled the BlockBase+ software will be improved to include export to “SVG” file format. This is a big plus for us that use fabric cutting machines. Improved printing output will be helpful, especially if you consider new users may have basic skills with computers as well as quilting. Thanks for the update and upgrade in the software.
11-27-2020
3:56 pm
I just got my Encyclopedia today! Oh My!!!!!! I will certainly be ordering the Block Base Software asap. Thank you Barbara Brackman for all you hard work and countless hours of research.
Kiki Myers
01-13-2021
1:15 pm
I have the original Blockbase and software. What is the difference between the new version and the old version? Also, I cannot get my EQ8 to recognize the older versions of EQ software add on software that I have purchased, which includes the Block base software. I have uninstalled and reinstalled EQ8. Any other suggestions?
01-13-2021
1:35 pm
Hi Pattie,
Differences between the two are explained here: https://doyoueq.com/blog/2020/10/4000-blocks-have-them-any-way-youd-like/
Feel free to check back later for more info as we have it!
Sounds like you have a tech support issue, you can use this article on our support site: https://support.electricquilt.com/articles/link-library/
Or contact our support team about your issue: https://support.electricquilt.com/contact-us/
02-16-2021
8:11 pm
How big can I print out patterns? I do modern quilts, so I want very large blocks that will fill up most of the quilt top.
THX!
02-17-2021
4:32 pm
Hi Betsy, the max size is 150″.
03-11-2021
7:32 pm
The system requirements states Intel or M1 chip processors and my computer settings show my Processor as AMD Ryzen 3 2300U Radeon Vega Mobile Gfx 2.00 GHz. Can you please confirm if this meets the requirements to use the BlockBase+ software.
Thankyou
Judith
03-12-2021
9:18 am
Yep, you’re good Judith!