I belong to two guilds, one is small and my best quilting friends are members. The other is very large, I don't know but one or two members there. I joined the bigger guild for the workshops and classes from well known quilters. I'm never nervous in a group of people and speak up with questions if I'm confused. That breaks the ice better then anything. But it gets me on a lot of committees. Groups really like people who show an interest and will put you to work fast. LOL Give the guild a chance before dismissing it as not for you. It takes about five meeting before I feel part of a group.