Something to think about.... all of the big quilt shows are sponsored by companies a lot of these companies make sewing/quilting machines. They are not individuals that labor over one work of art but sell to the masses to create many works. These individuals are holding back the progression of time and if we really want to be appreciated for our time and talents we need to keep abreast of the changes in our industry. Yes industry there is big money being spent on quilting from fabric to thread and the machines to create with. Those that want to hand piece and hand quilt are wonderful (yes I do it also hand piece and hand quilt) But if we want to be taken seriously and find ways to make money doing what we love then we need to move forward. Big money for quilt shows did not come about because we all continued to do the same thing (by hand) it is with innovative thinking and improved machines that we are being taken more seriously. Example Nancy Zieman isn't still creating garments now is she!