Projector for enlarging designs

[Libbi]

I am thinking about buying a projection device to enlarge designs. The expense can be very significant if I consider computer projectors as well as overhead projectors. DH has asked me to do some investigating and get some recommendations before we make a decision. So if anyone has some advice, please respond!

[Libbi]

Libby -- I just bought a digital projector about two weeks ago. I purchased a NEC from Staples. It is very light and easy to handle. It was expensive, but I used for the first time yesterday, and I love it! I'm designing a rhapsody and was able to scan in the skelelton and then project it to the size I wanted. I'm also using it for the applique. I have images that I've download from the Internet, copied from books and doodled myself and now I can just easily project them to size. I actually haven't read the directions yet, but plan to because I'm sure there are some cool things you can do. The overhead projectors were less expensive, and probably work well, but I prefer working with digital images and I also like how light weight and portable this machine is. Let me know if you have any other questions. Good luck with your decision. -- Deb

[ladyquilter]

I am thinking about buying a projection device to enlarge designs. The expense can be very significant if I consider computer projectors as well as overhead projectors. DH has asked me to do some investigating and get some recommendations before we make a decision. So if anyone has some advice, please respond!

I've been looking for the same thing and haven't made up my mind yet, but I did run across a school sale here that at least made it more affordable. Free shipping in the US. I wonder if there is a company like this near you.

http://tinyurl.com/5zp2vq

JoJo

[ladyquilter]

I find a good art supply resource is Blick Art Supply on-line at http://www.dickblick.com
Type in the word projector ( both transparent and opaque) ...they have projectors at different prices. The finer the reflecting lens, the higher the price.
They also carry Shiva Oil Paint sticks at a very reasonable price.
Hope this gives you some more options.

[Franceslovesfabric]

Libbi,
Glad you brought this up. I was just about to start looking for a projector for my husband. He wants to try painting picutures on fabric.
Frances

[Sewdreamy]

Libbi, I know a projector has some uses beyond simply enlarging a design, but I just posted how to enlarge designs using Excel Spreadsheet in a separate posting. I don't have a projector, and I only use Excel to enlarge my designs now. Cheers, Betty Jo

[Libbi]

Unfortunately for me, I cannot use those great website & free shipping offers in the USA. Living in Switzerland limits me to what is available here or possibly in France. The prices will be higher so I want to be sure that I make a good investment. So far I am leaning toward a computer projector.

Thanks for the tip on using the excel spreadsheet. That is also very useful.

[quilting101]

Has anyone used an overhead projector to enlarge patterns and if so are you happy with the results. I have an opportunity to purchase one and wanted some info before buying.
Thanks
Jenny in Oz

[Margo]

I haven't used one, but know that lots of designers who make large scale quilts enlarge their designs with a projector.

It would probably be labor intensive, but much less expensive than having 8' drawings printed out by a print shop if you plan to do many!

[Margo]

I have used one and the only real problem I could see was having the room to put the projector so the design would be the correct size. In other words--you keep moving it away from the wall where you paper is until it is the size you need.

[Margo]

I hope this doesn't show up twice (had unexpected computer problem!) I use an overhead projector (got one that is as-good-as-new for $20!) and I love it! It isn't hard at all to get the desired size onto the wall.

Pat-"Keep Calm and Carry On"

[Margo]

It is not hard but I have a small house and lots of furniture so it is hard to get it far enough from the wall. I take it to the church where I can move it as far as I need.

[quilting101]

Thanks all
Jenny in Oz