Originally Posted by JoanneS
Hey - before we start argueing and get our nickers in a twist - remember - for most of us, quilting is a hobby. It's only 'cheating' if we SAY we've done it one way when we've really done it another way.
As far as I'm concerned, finishing is what it's all about. I LOVE hand quilting and wish I could still do it. But I can't, so I use my machine. And I bought an embroidery machine SPECIFICALLY so I could use the beautiful quilting patterns by Anita Gooddesign and John Deer. I don't pretend that I've guided the machine myself in those beautiful, intricate patterns, so I'm not 'cheating.' I'm getting the quilt finished!
And as for 'cheater' FABRICS - I prefer to call them 'smart' fabrics. I use them for baby quilts, and I tell the moms that they're made to USE not to SAVE. I occasionally make pieced baby quilts for really close friends. They are the ones that will probably be wall hangings (I put sleeves on them), because the receivers know how much work goes into them.
You are correct. The point to be made here in all this is that the quilt was "made by YOU" no matter the method. A lot of money, fabric, hours, and love was put into it and that is all that should count!