Originally Posted by
dunster
I agree that the show's rules and categories should be considered. Well done hand applique does hold up to machine washing. I think that in general the judges look for a technique that is well done, rather than for a specific technique. However, if you hand stitched the dresden plates to the top, it might seem a little out of place to machine stitch the applique. It looks like you're going to have a beautiful quilt.
At least 10 years ago when I was in completion, judges do look at the quality of work and usually hand applique will win the big awards. I was lucky with my quilt. There are probably separation between machine quilting and hand quilting in categories then there are sub categories for the size of the quilt. I would suggest that you do the same technique that you did in making your Dresden plates. I would also advise you to hand sew the binding to the back. That just looks much neater. Good Luck.