My first shows were not judged, viewers choice only. This is a great way to dip your toes into the show pool. No critiques and the people judging, as Jan stated, aren't looking for technical expertise, they just like what they like. There is something so special about seeing your quilt hanging in a show. Go in with no expectations and you won't be disappointed. I have had nothing but positive experiences being a "fly on the wall" when being near my quilt and watching other people enjoy it. Many quilters use the judges feedback to help improve areas where they need improvement. In the end, the show experience is what YOU make of it. If you wish to focus on the negative of why someone won and you didn't nothing can change that. If you can't take constructive criticism in a judged show that is your problem, not the quilt's. And let me stress it is constructive. On judges comments I have seen good things like "Great use of color" or "Quilting motifs enhance and contribute to the quilt" and problems would be cited as "some points chopped off" or "appliqued circle should be round" (there was a flat spot on the circle) or something like that. Tells me to concentrate on improving my piecing, applique or binding or whatever. Some things I'm not about to change and because of that I probably won't take top ribbons. Other show critiques I have seen are just a number rating in each of the criteria that the judges use to rate the quilt, no comments just a number. I prefer comments.
I think if you are getting a lot of pushback from guild members, don't do a judged show, do peoples choice. Then no one is critiqued for their quilt making abilities. Of course there will always be sour grapes, always. Some will complain it was a popularity contest and got all their friends to go and vote for their quilt. Nothing you can do will stop some people from complaining.
Positive reasons for entering a quilt show:
1. Ask the membership if they enjoy going to quilt shows. Remind them that if people didn't put their quilts into shows there would be no shows.
2. It is fun to see your quilt hanging in a show.
3. There is always a chance you may win a peoples choice. I have taken a second place and didn't know anyone in the guild and only a handful of my friends attended. That made me feel really good.
4. If it is judged, it can be viewed as a way to improve your quilt making by letting you know what areas need work.
5. It is a good way to expose the community to quilting and raise money for the guild.
6. This goes back to 3, If you do happen to win a ribbon, be it judged, peoples choice or even vendors choice, nothing beats that feeling of accomplishment.
7. Other quilters get inspiration, ideas and motivation at shows. Remind your guild members that "sharing is caring" so share their beautiful quilts with others who appreciate them.
Last edited by feline fanatic; 01-24-2016 at 06:52 AM.