Yes, they become boards if there is too much quilting. This is the result of the long arm machines. I've hand stippled quilts, but they still remain soft. I believe that restraint should play a part in how much quilting. And it must be remembered that there should be an even amount of quilting throughout or the quilt ripples--no matter how even it was made. And when I judge quilt shows, a ripple-boarded quilt gets no ribbon, at least from me.
Sandy