Every guild is different - whether quilting, embroidery, sewing. I never joined American Sewing Guild when I lived in one state because I had heard they focused mostly on quilting, which I didn't do at the time. Joined it in another state - found no emphasis on quilting, and it was a terrific group. Belonged to two very large quilt guilds in Colorado (state guild, and another multi-state contemporary guild) and loved them. But, I wasn't seeking friendships - I joined for the learning. They offered wonderful speakers and workshops I couldn't access any other way. The guild I am in now - good friends, and good speakers and programs. Do I like every meeting? NO. Do I agree with some of the programs we are involved with, and some of the donations we make (requiring the membership to do a lot of fund-raising)? NO. Do I always like the programs? NO. Are some of the members not so nice? YES. But on balance, it is more than worth the dues to belong to this group. We have an annual retreat (reasonably priced) that I enjoy very much, I have made some really good friends here over the 6 years I have been a member, and I have heard some really good speakers and attended some wonderful workshops. We also have a terrific library that all our members can access - an advantage of larger guilds. (My guild has around 200 members, with more than 100-120 in attendance each month.) And of course, some people find this too big for comfort.
I think it is worthwhile to ask yourself why you want to join a guild. Is it for social reasons (perfectly valid!), or to learn more, or to be energized to do more when you leave the meeting, or.....? Will you be uncomfortable in a big group? (Most large guilds also have small groups that meet monthly or weekly, and our guild helps new members find a small group to join.)
Good luck - and for all of you who have been reluctant to consider guilds - give them a try, at least!
Sorry this is so long....