Many of the readers of the Scrollsaw Workshop Blog have expressed interest in the software I use. The one tool I would never be without is Corel Draw. The software has a short learning curve to grasp the tools needed to create scroll saw patterns. If you want to get serious about making patterns I feel this is the single best choice you could make. Corel DrawX3 is not inexpensive but you get a lot for what you pay.
Product Description
CorelDraw Graphics Suite X3 is a breakthrough in design technologies. With more than 40 new features & over 400 enhancements, you've got a truly comprehensive graphics suite at your disposal. Tackle a wide variety of projects - from logo creation and Web graphics, to multi-page marketing brochures, or eye-catching signs. Its new features include a new bitmap-to-vector tracing tool, new photo-editing features, and enhancements in illustration and page layout. This suite combines design capabilities, ease-of-use, and affordability into a complete suite of tools that give you the confidence to be creative. Hints provide dynamic, context-sensitive tips and tricks as you work Design Collection offers 100 creatively varied templates, easily customized to suit specific needs Get insight from from CorelDRAW experts -- the new CorelDRAW Handbook showcases practical, real-world examples of accomplished designs and best practices Open and create password-protected PDFs, to exchange secure client files Support for RAW file format Increased compatibility with Adobe Illustrator, PhotoShop, Corel Paint Shop Pro, Microsoft Office, JPEG, and PDF
If you feel you can afford the investment in your hobby and you are willing to learn the software then try Corel Draw.