I joined a guild about 10 years ago and the first year I was just watching, looking, listening and learning. Then I got involved and love the guild. You have to put yourself out there. I told them I was ignorant so help me, teach me. They are a great guild. We have over 300 members and we make quilts for Head Start for children, Habitat for Humanity homes, unwed mothers, shelters, and our service personnel. I do most of my quilting at home but donate a lot of it to the various things the guild supports. I consider myself an advanced beginner but love to make all sorts of quilts. I found that you just have to ask questions, try to learn new things, take classes the guild offers, and do what you can to support the group. Mississippi Valley Quilters Guild with members from Iowa and Illinois.