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-   -   What do judges look for when judging quilts in a show? (https://www.quiltingboard.com/main-f1/what-do-judges-look-when-judging-quilts-show-t48147.html)

costumegirl 06-02-2010 06:10 PM

I'm thinking of entering a few quilts as judged entries in the local guild's show next Spring. I know that a certain percentage of the judging is given for different aspects of the presented piece.

Does anyone know, generally, what judges look for and what are some good tips so that a quilt may be considered as a top candidate?

BellaBoo 06-02-2010 06:52 PM

I help with the county fair quilts. I listen to the judges while they pick the winners. They always check the binding first, then the quilting.

Pam 06-02-2010 07:42 PM

It must hang straight, with even quilting throughout.

No chopped off points, clean intersections. Must have a label and hanging sleeve, depending on the show.

craftybear 06-02-2010 08:50 PM

intersections meet!


Originally Posted by costumegirl
I'm thinking of entering a few quilts as judged entries in the local guild's show next Spring. I know that a certain percentage of the judging is given for different aspects of the presented piece.

Does anyone know, generally, what judges look for and what are some good tips so that a quilt may be considered as a top candidate?


craftybear 06-02-2010 08:51 PM

also they look at the quilting!

spinnergs 06-02-2010 09:11 PM

They want the binding at the corners to be sewn down at the diagonal turnings. and the borders to match the quilt pattern.

ckcowl 06-02-2010 11:50 PM

balanced quilting, visual impact, use of color and creativity. binding needs to be full to the edges. straight, squared, edges not rippled/wavy. borders proportionate to the center of the quilt. even stitches.
they see the visual impact of the quilt first just like we all do, then they start measuring and checking out the technique, and quality of workmanship. make sure you follow any rules such as size, hanging sleeve guidelines (if required) appliques need to be attached well (as with any embellishments)
the judges write up a little report on each quilt even if you do not win any ribbons their criticism is invaluable, read it and look over your quilts and learn, never take it personal...they are not making personal judgements, they do not even know who's quilt they are judging.

ghostrider 06-03-2010 02:38 AM

The National Quilting Associatiion website has lots of information on judging criteria.
http://nqaquilts.org/judges/judges-about.php
http://nqaquilts.org/judges/judges-faq.php
Although local shows (quild, county fair, 4-H, etc) may differ slightly, it can't hurt to aim high. Most show committees will let you know in advance what the quilts will be judged on and if you Google quilt judging criteria, you will find a wealth of additiiional information online.

MamaBear61 06-03-2010 04:29 AM

One thing I also remember from helping at local fairs is as someone mentioned, even quilting throughout and there should be no space bigger than the palm of your hand unquilted.

costumegirl 06-03-2010 05:06 AM

Great info!! Thanks!


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