Many have pointed out that the only rules mostly apply to juried shows. I think that even that is changing. When I started going to quilt shows, there were hardly any machine quilted pieces, it was mostly hand quilted. Then you started seeing machine quilting, raw edge applique, picture quilts and now I see a lot of thread art or drawing with thread. And I think quilt shows have gotten a lot more interesting since these 'innovations' have been allowed. So, quilt for the enjoyment. You may come out with a quilt technique that no one's ever thought of and we may see it in future quilt shows. First and foremost, have fun.