Food For Thought For Quilters on This Board
 

I was just looking at the list of pictures that have been posted on the board, going to them and posting comments. Everyone of us, even the more experienced quilters, but mainly the beginners, would love comments about the pictures of our quilt projects. I have noticed on several of the pictures posted, there are around 2,000 views (or more) of the thread but only 20 or less comments posted. I would like to suggest that we take a couple of minutes to make a quick comment on these threads to offer encouragement to each other. Each comment only has to be 10 characters and could result in a "pat on the back" or a "way to go" to someone who really needed it. Just a thought from my heart that I think could make a big difference. GOD Bless

I'd say that depends on why you are posting - about colors, binding, pattern, just to get some encouragement, proud of yourself for completing a project or learning a technique, a pat on the back and and lots of "likes" is very nice

But if you have shown an example with a stitch, FMQ, or technical problem not related to choice - seeing posts of "beautiful quilt" "nice job or colors" isn't exactly helpful when you want to know if it's the machine or you. A post of empathy might go over better. Been there, done that, a link to a post with the same problem for a newcomer or a good discussion of the problem would be far more on the spot.

I'd say read the post first and see which category the post is in.

I post pictures of my 'stuff' because I want feedback. I'm a good quilter.... not the best but not the worst either. I certainly can look at my work and pick it apart when it's needed. And that makes me work harder to improve all the time. But, having someone say, 'your work is beautiful' puts a smile on my face. Having someone say, 'I like the blue border instead of the grey one' helps me make a decision ( even though there will be plenty of people that like the grey better). And, getting 10 different ways to do something helps me discover a 'better way'. So, yes, I enjoy people's comments.

But I'm guilty of not commenting sometimes, too. Sometimes, I don't know what to say, I don't want to say something that might hurt anyone's feelings, or I see that others have already said what I'd say. But, I'll try to change that because, you're right. We do need to encourage each other. That's why we're here on this board, right?

I think that some quilters are still running a tight ship and just may NOT have the time like some of us have being retired.

I found that when a post ask for an opinion of the quilt, either color choices or workmanship, and get any negative feedback then too many jump in and say how awful someone is to give that opinion. Everyone gets a trophy seem to be the attitude no matter if obvious problems can be seen.

It is sometimes difficult to make a comment when you live in a different county and don't have a"Joanne" or what ever the shop is called. Other times the title of a thread takes you to a comment or question about a specific machine or notion which. Again may not have reached other countries.
on viewing quilt pictures it is sometimes difficult to think of a new response as your initial thought has already been posted.

i think even if not everyone comments it is good to see just how many read the thread.

Even when I go to the 'pictures' section of this quilting board, as a new quilter (still calling myself that after 4 years), I REALLY appreciate it when people describe the materials used to get the effect of the quilt they're posting. Such as pattern name, fabric type (cotton, flannel, etc.), thread used to piece, thread used to quilt (what was used on the top and bottom) batting used. I use this site to learn. As a matter of fact ALL I know about quilting is what you ladies/gents have taught me from reading all your posts and the answers you've given when I've run into difficulty. THANKS so much for your patience with we newbies. BUT answers to the above are usually what I wish I knew when I'm looking at your pictures.

Love to all of you and happy quilting,
Dray from SE Oklahoma

I never thought to add all of that information to a picture.

I don't always post because someone else has already commented in almost the exact way I would have.

I have actually posted about this issue.. I was apologizing for not posting on every picture.

My internet is so so so freakin slow it takes forever for the pictures to open. I really love looking at them, but to reply takes even MORE time. If I had better internet I would post on all of the pictures :) People with fast internet may forget what its like to not have that luxury

Posting Comments
 

Ok. Let me ask this question. Lets say a post is made and the quilter says he/she is a new quilter and this is the first quilt and asks for comments. The picture posted clearly shows workmanship that everything is wrong. Not just a mistake here and there.....but really bad work. What kind of comments does one make. Clearly the person needs help. There is no indication in the post of attempting to learn, in fact the poster says he/she is a self learner. Advice of "practice, practice, practice" is clearly not what the person needs. But, there are 150 comments that says, "been there", beautifutiful colors", "no quilt police here, you can do whatever you want", "the person receiving the quilt will appreciate it". Come on......someone who knows nothing about quilting can see mismatched seams. So what should one do......just ignore the post if you can't say something positive. This is the day and age of learning on the internet from many view points. What does one do?



an

I assume that if a person is seeking a critical viewpoint, they will have said something to indicate that. Something like, 'What do you think about . . .', 'is this border color okay . . .', 'need input on such and such . . .', 'please let me know if you see something out of place . . .', 'how can I match seams better . . .', etc. If someone hasn't indicated they want critical feedback, I wouldn't volunteer it.

If I'm really struck by a quilt, I'll comment that I think it's beautiful, etc. Thankfully, tastes vary widely, and every quilt is going to be found beautiful by some of us!

I think we were all taught the adage: If you can't say something nice don't say anything at all. So unless someone asks for advice giving advice is not usually welcomed. If something I want to say has been said a zillion times, I know I don't post the same thing. But if a post doesn't have very many responses, I do leave a response to help encourage people.

I don't always comment. Most of the time, previous posters have already said what I would have said.

I post pictures of mine because I don't really know too many people who would really appreciate quilting. Those of us on this board know the time and care that goes into these things.

It's nice to hear you did a good job. My quilts aren't outstanding but people like them and I have fun putting them together. Quilting is supposed to be fun, right?

Sometimes I don't post because there are things I don't like like the pattern or color scheme.

But most quilts are beautiful even if they aren't perfect.

That color scheme I hate might really speak to someone else and inspire them.

Isn't that what these picture threads are about? To share our creativity, and be inspired by the creativity of others?

I'm not going to worry if people aren't commenting enough.

A lot of people are kind of reserved even on a sort of anonymous forum and will only lurk without posting.

Doesn't mean they don't like our work.

The important thing is do we have fun doing this? Do our creations make ourselves and others happy? If so, then our work is good and we don't need anyone else's approval.

I have to agree that not everyone needs to comment on every quilt. Just saying "nicely done" doesn't indicate that the viewer gave any thought to the quilt (but it is a way of increasing their post count on the board). It takes time to frame a thoughtful response. Plus, we all have our preferences and are drawn to different colors, styles, and designs, and commenting on something that just doesn't float your boat seems a little phony.

When I see that many people viewed but didn't comment on one of my posts it doesn't bother me. It doesn't mean they didn't like the quilt (although I'm sure that some did, and some didn't).

However, I do agree that when we see a quilt that really catches our eye, we should make an effort to let the quilter know that we like that quilt and why. But sometimes personal reasons get in the way of posting, and sometimes we just get out of the habit.

I enjoy seeing photos of quilts for inspiration on future projects to try. It is very helpful to get pattern names, tips on how it is constructed,etc. I often look, comment on those that really speak to me.
I post photos for the same reasons, to share, hopefully inspire a little spark of creativity, and share "how to's". Getting feedback is very encouraging too! But I don't expect everyone that looks to comment. And, I may be wrong on this, but I think anyone on the web can view threads, but can't comment unless they are registered on the Board----I guess I always thought that was the large difference between the 'viewed' and 'comments' numbers.

When my bandwidth permits, I like to look at the quilts in the picture section, and comment when something strikes my interest. I just assume that my taste isn't everyone elses. I post photos of finished projects because I don't keep a journal, I'm not on pinterest or snapfish or (horrors) facebook. I use the board to record my stuff. I try and put the name of the pattern, size of the quilt and any other helpful info in the posting.

I am 73 and work full time at WalMart and I am guilty of not commenting sometimes but I am going to try to put forth an effort. Comments were made about not knowing what to say sometimes but I think I can always find something good to say whether it is great color, love your pattern or looks like a lot of work. IMHO I am going to try to do better myself and just offerred this as a suggestion.

If I posted on every photo we all post of our amazing work. I wouldn't get anything else done.

Just me personally... I think if someone has questions and wants advice those would be in the Main discussion section.. asking specific questions. The picture section I think of more as just show and tell. At least that's how I am on the board. I do ask for help and appreciate all of the tips that I have gotten

A good suggestion, and I do it when I can. It is difficult for some of us to post individual comments what with arthritis and such.

I would like to be able to "like" quilts as that is much easier on me, my shoulders, arms and hands.

In the past, when I have tried to post a comment of one word, such as "beautiful", I've been told the comment is too short. I don't know if that's still true, but sometimes just one word is all that's needed.

I'm with cathyvv and Julie, short and sweet is needed.

If it were me, I might say, "Looks like you put a lot of effort into this quilt. If I were you I would look for a quilt guild or LQS in your area where you could find other quilters who could give you a lot of clues and tips to make your quilting easier and a lot more fun. We all have to start somewhere but being with more advanced quilters sure did help me. Also, there are many tutorials on You Tube from MSQC and others on great ways to make quilts. Good luck"

QUOTE=Quilt30;7306499]Ok. Let me ask this question. Lets say a post is made and the quilter says he/she is a new quilter and this is the first quilt and asks for comments. The picture posted clearly shows workmanship that everything is wrong. Not just a mistake here and there.....but really bad work. What kind of comments does one make. Clearly the person needs help. There is no indication in the post of attempting to learn, in fact the poster says he/she is a self learner. Advice of "practice, practice, practice" is clearly not what the person needs. But, there are 150 comments that says, "been there", beautifutiful colors", "no quilt police here, you can do whatever you want", "the person receiving the quilt will appreciate it". Come on......someone who knows nothing about quilting can see mismatched seams. So what should one do......just ignore the post if you can't say something positive. This is the day and age of learning on the internet from many view points. What does one do?



an[/QUOTE]

Twinkie, you are a kind soul. I appreciate your thoughts.

I do the same and add !!!!!!! because I mean it. I have a tendency to comment and ramble also.

I think the reason you are told the comment is too short is that you were typing your comment in the body of the Quote you were trying to answer. That's happened to me numerous times. Now I know what to do about it. If the original quote has more paragraphs, that is easy to miss in this really small space they give you to type your answer to the post. Be sure and look for the [/Quote] at the end of the post before you answer.

I agree with this. I cringe when people say it's beautiful, just leave it, no one will notice, etc, when it is obvious something really needs to be fixed. How will you feel 20 years from now if you let it go like that? There was one quilt posted a few years back that was just beautiful, except for one edge. I think the quilt was quilted but not yet bound. This was one you could see from the back of a galloping horse! Literally! And yet there were those that said leave it, no one else will notice. At that point I would get help to fix it if I couldn't fix it myself.

The comment about people being able to view but not comment because they haven't joined the board is very likely. When I've done searches about quilting topics in a search engine(Google etc) links to posts on this board are almost always in the Search results. I'm not sure if clicking on the link that leads to a posting on this board goes into the count, but it seems logical that it would. "Only the Webmaster Knows". I will say if I'm in the pictures area and a posting has pages of comments, I know anything I would say has already been said-so unless I'm just bowled over by the project I don't respond-I definitely do if there haven't been many responses. Unless the Thumper principal is involved ( if you can't say something nice...) not everything appeals to everyone-that's reality. What we can do is keep quilting-because we all have like minded quilters and I'm very grateful for that!

As far as the short and sweet, I do believe every response has a minimum of 10 characters. So if you just want to post "wow" or "Gorgeous" or "Beautiful" you will need to add some other characters like exclamation points. I think if you add an emoticon that seems to take the place of more than just one character but I am not positive as I rarely use them. The 10 character rule is kind of stupid IMHO but I am lowly user and not power that be and anyone who knows me on this board knows I am rarely at a loss for stuff to type.

I agree with Dunster. I think an insightful comment adds more to the discussion and thought process and makes the board more enjoyable. So I prefer to add a little more than "beautiful". I too like to know all the tech details like pattern source, batting used, thread used etc. I try very hard to include that information on pictures I post and even to include a little how to if possible.

It is really nice to get a lot of comments and when I first joined the board, it meant a lot to me, that someone took the time to post something to one of my threads. I for one am elated there is no "like" button or other similar tool that takes zero thought or effort. Leave that to FB.

The fact is many people like to just lurk and look and not participate. I bet there are a lot of those here and also people that don't sign up but just look as well. I am like that on a few other forums where I am a lurker and don't even have a log in. Also, some people find it difficult to type so won't post unless something truly motivates them to. Nothing will ever change either of those things (lurkers and physical limitations). So there will always be a disproportionate amount of views to posts.

I prefer to receive and give thoughtful comments. If I don't have anything to say besides "looks cute" then I don't comment and I don't expect others to comment on my pictures when they don't have thoughtful comments to add to the discussion.

The same way that you extrapolated from your own feelings that everyone wants to receive a lot of comments, I have extrapolated from my feelings that a one or two word comment is unnecessary.

Maybe we need a "facebook" smiley face?? :) Or a "like"/"love" button?? But that would not constitute enough letters unless we did 10 smiley faces. When I post or someone else, I appreciate a few well written criticism or statements rather than 2 pages that say "very pretty". But that's me, I am more of a cut and dried person.

I also appreciate, very much, when someone posts, pattern and designer (if known), fabric used, etc and not just "I made this". Now I understand some people are not "writers, but just a list is very helpful. But I never turn down a great story of how it came about. LOL. I can be long winded LOL

While I'm on a roll, I also love when someone put a descriptive title, it makes it easier to go back and find articles. "Help" or "New Quilt" makes it harder to wade through multiple posts. OK done for now LOL!!

I concur. If a couple people have commented on the beauty, I refrain because if I am going to read through pages of comments I want there to be meaningful discussion. I often don't contribute especially a simple compliment if the same thoughts have already been expressed.

Great idea.

I don't care if 27 people say it the same way, it feels good! It's like "happy birthday"; how many ways are there to say that? But to hear it 27 times that way vs. just 3 ways, well I will take the friendly repetition! :)

I make comments when I have something to add to the conversation. If I am going to do nothing but repeat what has already been said, I do not leave a comment. I also do not leave a comment if the only thing I have to say is very negative.

I totally agree with the sentiment, but one problem could be lack of time, I am guilty of looking only at the quilts that interest me (appliques, scraps) and I do not comment sometime because it seems trite to repeat the same words over and over but I see the point, I will try to participate more. thanks

I understand your post and agree wholeheartedly. Even when a post is a question about color or some other choice, it is nice to see that others have noticed and have taken the time to help or to just give that pat on the back.

Guilty as charged. I read but don't comment very often at all. I'll try to do better.

Quilty as charged! I will do better and thank you for the reminder that a kind word is never used in vain.