I have looked around my area for quilt guilds to sit in on, but have hesitated for the reasons mentioned...

yes we have greeters !!!!

I was asked if I was in any guilds by one of the board members, and I said no, because of these reasons.

I think all these guilds are like high school cliques, I didn't like them then, don't like them now.

The stitching guilds in my area get too involved in doing certain classes and pieces with instructors and I don't want to do that all the time.

After reading this and being in total agreement with most peoples experiences this thought came to my mind. When I am looking at fabric or at a quilting class most of the ladies are helpful, friendly, chatty, encouraging, sharing etc. I'm guessing that these ladies aren't part of the local guild.

I belong to 2 Guilds, one small and one large. It is intimidating to go at the beginning. I found that by volunteering to help, I was able to meet many people and it didn't take long to fit in. Guilds always have trouble finding enough people to serve as officers or head committees so that might be a way to go. There will always be unfriendly and gossipy members and I just ignore them, but for the most part, I have found all the members friendly. Some are just more reserved and take longer to get to know. I am glad that I am a member of both guilds. The good really outweighs the bad significantly.

Gee, I'm so sorry that happened to you. How awful. I'm about to join a local guild and I sure hope I don't have that experience. I'm signing up for a class that will be held that afternoon, so hopefully that will ease the way.

This is why there are NO guilds in my past or future. I would maybe enjoy a small group of quilters to work with or visit with. I can stay at home and not be insulted or ignored..............just sayin'

Leave earlier!! LOL

so sorry you got caught up with such a bunch of sour apples. I'd keep searching - there are good groups out there!

I always talk to the people sitting beside me wither I know them or not. I belong to a large local quilt guild so it is hard to know who's new and who isn't. Remember it's their lose if they don't get to know you. You do belong to this huge international quilt guild here and we're the best.