I read the quilt police thread and some of the comments made me think about the issue of giving false praise.

When someone has made a quilt that is poorly put together or there isn't enough contrast with colour choices, or it just plain doesn't look right, are we being fair by complimenting them?

I don't believe in embarrassing a person by pointing out mistakes or telling them that they have to do it the "right" way. I don't believe in telling someone their work is lovely when it isn't. Being positive and encouraging is essential, but damning with faint praise is harmful.

Where is the line between trying to help someone improve their skills and being the dreaded hated quilt police?

If I can't find something to compliment, I don't say anything.

I think it is the same as any praise, I try to find something good to say about the color, the pattern, the size,etc. Sometimes it is difficult but I try.:):)

I STRONGLY AGREE...HOW WILL WE IMPROVE IF WE DONT GET OTHER PEOPLES "HONEST" OPINIONS...????

I believe that those who post on the QB have given their best. I'm proud for them that they are doing what they love. If they ask how it could be better then offer suggestions otherwise I give them encouragement. It took me a while to realize that I don't have to comment at all. It is better praise or say nothing than point out errors. Just my opinion:) Happy Quilting:thumbup:

If they haven't asked for help on improving their skills, then don't offer it. If you can't say something nice, say nothing at all. It may not look right to you, but it looks right to them and that is all that counts. It may not be your color choices, but it was theirs.

I like what I like and I don't particularly care about the rules on color choices or contrast. If I am making a gift for someone, then I care about what they like, even if it isn't my style.

I always try and say something positive. Personally, I am forever trying to improve my skills so I welcome honest criticism, but I have run into people who are not as receiving of anything but high praise. Those people usually are much better quilters than me, so it is easy to be honestly enthusiastic about their work!

I can always find something positive to say. I was raised by the saying, if ya cant say something nice, say nothing at all.

Beauty is in the eye of the beholder.

I would not say anything if I couldn't say anything nice. Now, if someone ASKS how to get a 1/4 inch seam better or how to prevent a border from being wavy, then I would tell them how I do it. I would need a specific question before I offered any advice.

Not saying anything is always an option...