Quilting is a textile form of creative expression. We use fabric, threads, tools, machines, patterns. All of which are protected in some form or another. The most important tools we have however, are our hearts, our minds, and our hands. We don't do what we do for glory, fame, or recognition. We do it for love, comfort, and simply because we love to create an item that embodies our imagination in a useful fashion that hopefully will remain as a legacy to our families of who we are. Do what you love to do however you can with the tools available to you and never forget that in the course of life, laws rarely govern the determination of the human soul and its expression. Abide by the rules set up to protect others wishing to share their souls' expressions, but never let that cause you to hinder or suppress your own imagination. There are no leaders and followers, only teachers and students. Learn what you can, where you can and take that knowledge beyond your own boundaries.