i always tell people i am 'way to un-disciplined' to follow someone's pattern---too A.D.D. too O.C.D. too what ever other initials you want to add- i pretty much make 'em up as i go along-
although sometimes i do incorporate actual blocks and follow the *rule* of the block- as often i don't=== and no- i do not feel guilty for it-
my mom's a portrait artist---raised 5 kids with her paintings---she has never felt guilty for the shelves of art books/magazines in her library- guess i was raised that way- it's normal to collect (inspiration) ... how else will you ever learn new techniques? or see the direction things are going? or see how they used to do it?
there is no reason for guilt - it's growth.

I have to follow the pattern exactly when I'm making a shop sample, but when I'm making my own I usually make it "my own". The quilts tells me what it wants to be.

I do both. If I really like a pattern, I may follow it but tweek it to my own personal style. Lots of times, I just start sewing and see what it looks like in the end. It lets me be creative.

I always follow the pattern; but have recently began looking at the ways others put together quilts without a pattern and find it fascinating. Not only do you create a work of art, but you are expressing yourself and building a stronger more confident self. It may take me awhile before I start the journey, but I know I am being pulled in that direction. I read all of the comments and found them interesting, so thanks for posting the question.

I "sort of" follow the instructions.

Sort of like trying out a new recipe.

The first time I make it like it's written. The second time (if it comes to that ), it usually has some changes toit.

Right now I'm trying wild abandon with inspiration from my collection of books. It may turn into a hot mess. We'll see. ;)

Ditto. My brain just doesn't work that way. I may add a border or something but by & large, I stick to the pattern. My problem is I, too, have zillions of books & magazine & patterns & print outs & I end up using the same ones over & over again.

I, too, make quilts for Project Linus (& QOV) & I always think "Oh, this would be a good chance to try out a new pattern" & then I make another "Streak of Sunshine" or "Yellow Brick Road" or 9-patch. I'm boring.

Just my opinion but the patterns are like a guide and not following it makes it more your own design.

I am all over the place on that one.....I've followed patterns to the letter changing only the color of fabric.....I've used patterns as inspiration....I've used a bunch of orphan blocks to make up a large lap quilt and backed it with a fleece blanket (my personal favorite!)....I don't think I've ever actually designed my own quilt, but I have borrowed ideas from several patterns and made some very pretty quilts. I love learning new techniques for quilting and try to challenge myself once in a while. All in all, I just love to make quilted things....from a king sized bargello, to charity quilts, to bow tucks.....best artsy thing I've ever done. LOL

I will sort of follow a pattern -- unfortunately I get bored and take a left turn and then a right and wander around the pattern so I get something close.