Be true to yourself. If your avatar is an example of the quilts you make you are truely an artist.

Amen to this sister. I never quilt by someone elses standards. Everyone loves my quilts when they recieve them and they want more. God gave you the ablity to do what you do so enjoy and quit listening to the "quilt police"

I totally agree with you. I love doing my own thing and if someone likes it - great and if they don't- oh well. I feel the same about a lot of things in life like that. We spend way too way time trying to keep up with the Jones' or trying to be perfect. Every time I make something I have a learning experience. Do your own thing!

I agree I am a person who feels the same way. Sometimes I feel like I will never measure up to some of these quilters. They have a special gift. I always tell myself that if I wanted to do that kind of quilting I could do it. It turns out I am just happy with what I do. That is the important part. Just do your thing and enjoy.

I think I have learned that the harshest critic of my work is me. Not once, when I have given a quilt, has someone looked it over and said "Gee, your points don't match here" or "Isn't this just a little wonky?" Mostly what I hear is "Oh my gosh! You made this for ME? I can't believe you did this" or "I don't know how you make these beautiful quilts" And mine are NOT masterpieces, by any stretch of the imagination. When I make them as gifts, I just put my heart and soul into them, knowing that it's a labor of love. (Quilt police notwithstanding)

Enjoy the "art." And there are no mistakes in true art. Good for you - let them go on their way.

I agree with everything you said. For me, I learned early the only quilt police I intend to listen to are the four legged furry kind! Virg

Here's to you, pumpkinpatch{{{hug}}} You have learned a valuable life lesson and I say - go for your own style. Your style is an inspiration to each of us.

Absolutely right! I love the process and lots of the quilts I make are pretty utilitarian, pretty ordinary. In fact, I don't think I've every made anything I would remotely class as a masterpiece but I still love to quilt and still admire people who have the gift, time and commitment to perfection to create those perfect, show-quality quilts. Like you, I just don't feel the need to be that way anymore.

Well, said Pumpkin Patch. I am right there with you! The person that treated you rudely has problems and was mean to you - that makes anybody feel bad! I feel the same way you do about quilting. Personally, I wish I could do better - and I am a lot older than you - I keep on going and try my best, and I feel good about it. At least I am not giving up. I give myself a hard time and don't give myself enough credit, I am told. The point is: we are all quilters and enjoy what we do and do the best we can. Thank you for sharing.