I couldn't agree more. About 25 years ago I took a step and actually machine stitched around the borders with a wavy stitch. I thought it sacrilegious. I still prefer handquilting, but for times sake, I do now machine quilt squares, in the ditch, etc.; however, I think that some of quilting today has become a contest to see who can quilt the densest quilt possible.
Personally, I don't think what passes for quilting now isn't quilting--it is fiber art. The sewing of fabric together and then the embellishments that is put down on the final quilt top has become too much. The hand of the quilt is stiff. Then if there is beading, yo-yos, etc., on any quilt there are lumps and bumps. There are only so many walls in my house. And I do like to have pictures hung also...
A quilt should be soft. It was and is, IMnsHO, a bed covering. I don't want stiffness. I want to be able to snuggle, wrap it around me, comfort me if that is what is needed. I don't need a ton of embellishments on a quilt top either. I guess I will go back to making Amish-style quilts. I can blissfully sit and hand quilt. There will be no need for patterns, or fancy fabric. I will fish out the old quilting frame and set it up in the dining room. I think the quilters of Gees Bend, Mississippi have the right approach. Use what you have. Quilt it if you want to. Tie it if you need it to keep someone warm tonight. Those are quilts.
Please no flames. This is my opinion only. I have seen way too many lovely quilts here that I have been in awe of. I am, myself, working on a Judy Niemeyer quilt. That will be fiber art. But for the most part, I prefer soft squares with a soft cotton batting in between. Soft... that is the key word.
Peace to all of you...