I also had a bad experience with a guild member so never joined one. Apparently I ask a stupid question, at least she thought it was stupid. I was made to feel less of a quilter because I was self taught and had never taken a class.It took me a long time to show my quilts to anyone other than family. Now I have found out most quilters are self taught and don't take classes! So ask any question you want to! I am still learning after 12 years of quilting. A guild does not make you a quilter, but seeing patterns everywhere does! So, I am a quilter! :D :D :D Ninnie in NC