I think this issue is kinda like "chocolate vs. vanilla"...there is something for everyone. I happen to like fairly heavy quilting and I haven't found that it results in stiff quilts (thats a batting choice issue). I think that what bothers so many of us are the overall meandering done on quilts with NO regard to the design or piecing of the quilt. I agree with the poster who talked about the LAQ setting the parameters, then going to lunch. That isn't what I call "quilting"..I know it is, but....it doesn't seem to show much respect for the piecer. Anyway...this is always an interesting subject.