What a fascinating discussion. I'd like to add that I simply love quilting. When I began this about 15 years ago, I had no idea there would be so much to learn. I thought quilting was just making soft, cuddly coverlets out of fabric and thread. Now I know how there is so much more to it. I am not only interested in the completed quilt, but I love the entire process of quiltmaking. There are complex decisions about size, color, use, pattern, and fabric. It is just as difficult to decide on a quilting design. In my mind, it all has to go together to form a pleasing end product. And I am still learning.
I will always be a hand-quilter. There is no better, more relaxing process in the world than sitting with a quilt draped across your lap as you work the needle, always trying to get the most uniform and small stitches as possible. It is such good therapy. But, I have recently become enamored with free-motion quilting. This is much harder and takes much more concentration. Both techniques require talent and/or skill. Both reveal a spectacular result. At first I had no interest in machine quilting. I wanted to create with my hands, but I soon realized that manipulating the fabric beneath the needle is being creative. Like any endeavor, it can be done well and it can be done poorly. I've always believed that the quilting should play a part in the overall project, just as the piecing and the colors and types of fabric contribute. It all has to do with individual taste and the use of the quilt. There are of course some quilts that just don't do it for me; there are others that knock my socks off. After all I made my first quilt because I was inspired by those I saw at a quilt show. To tell the truth, I don't go to many shows. My main focus isn't a finished quilt. I aim to make a quilt, which means all the various processes that go into it is the best part for me. I love the precision cutting, the perfect 1/4" seam, putting the pieces together so that points and seams match. I try for perfection, knowing it isn't going to happen, but never beating myself up over it. When the processes are completed, the finished quilt gives me such joy.
Of course it is possible to over-quilt a quilt. But it is also possible to use what I'd consider ugly fabric or gaudy colors. But the point is, it was made with love by someone who enjoys the process just as much as I do. So, the bottom line for me is, quilts are awesome. I pretty much love them all.