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-   -   Should I just give up? (https://www.quiltingboard.com/main-f1/should-i-just-give-up-t97875.html)

franie 02-08-2011 10:56 AM

We are all at different levels. Continue please!

Mattee 02-08-2011 10:56 AM

Don't give up. It's about fun, not about being perfect! Think how it will be when you look back at this project, years from now, and see how far you've grown.

mytwopals 02-08-2011 10:56 AM

Never give up. Just keep practicing, take your time and you'll soon be mastering the craft.

JaKnits 02-08-2011 10:56 AM

Please don't give up, and don't expect perfection of yourself.
Everything has a learning curve and the women in the group did not start out so accomplished, they had to learn also.
Just take a breath, enjoy the process and learn at your own pace. After a quilt or two you will see your progress and be impressed with yourself! Most importantly, Have Fun!!

greensleeves 02-08-2011 11:09 AM

You have said the shop owner and the others in the group are nice and helpful so continue-how lucky to have a nice group. Do the best you can and learn as you go. Sure you are more likely to have imperfections than the more experienced in your group but one day you will have the opportunity to be the more experienced one and get the chance to help someone else. So, when you are all finished, bring in a box of chocolates to share as a thank you for all the help and encouragement you have received. Looking forward to seeing your progress posted here.

SuziC 02-08-2011 11:12 AM

Never ever give up on something you really want to do. We have all been where you are. There is only one you in this world and no one should make you feel intimidated. Just try to stay focused and work at your own pace. There will always be others that know more and are more experienced. Any quilt you create will be your own work of art :!:

Cherylsea 02-08-2011 11:12 AM

I agree, don't give up. This sounds like the perfect environment for you to grow and learn. Remember, none of the people in the class were born knowing what they know now! Someday in the not too distant future YOU will be the one that a newbie looks at in awe! Can't happen if you don't try. It shouldn't be perfect, just the best you can do at this time. Less ripping and more acceptance.

feline fanatic 02-08-2011 11:20 AM


Originally Posted by MissBarkey
The problem is me and my lack of self-confidence and skill. These ladies are good....really good. They are doing this quilt as either an investment (it was costly) or as an entry in shows. I am totally intimidated by their abilities and have ripped out all my blocks I've done so far..

Your post shows you know what the problem is and it sounds like not only are you looking to vent but you are looking for vindication that it is ok to quit and chalk it up as an expensive learning experience.

Nope - no way. You need to quit being so hyper critical of your self and stop comparing your work to the ladies who are making this BOM as a show entry. That is like thinking you can study under Micahelangelo and be able to produce like he does after just a few lessons!

You must continue, for the reasons you cited, to learn something and make a beautiful quilt for your bed. And ya know what, it is ok if a seam doesn't line up or a point gets cut off or an applique's curve isn't as smooth as the template. This quilt is for YOU and sometimes good enough is just that - Good Enough! Cut yourself a little slack, give yourself permission to have a less then perfect quilt. Seek advice and tutoring from the shop owners and ladies, but do not compare your work to theirs. So what if it isn't as good, it doesn't matter. Maybe give jack the ripper a day off or two and let that block go as is. In the end you will be much happier with yourself and your quilt and your self confidence will soar.

Holice 02-08-2011 11:26 AM

Suggest you: Look at the block and find what you are dissatisfied with. Write those things down.
Then go back and find out how you can improve. If it seams not consistent, then find a way to make them more consistent. If they don't match up, then check each step up to that point. I took a class last year that the teacher said to measure each unit when finished before you sew the next. Know what is wrong and fix it.
Don't consider it one week of experience 12 times but a progression of learning each time to improve.

mollymct 02-08-2011 11:30 AM

I think I would welcome being part of a group that would offer that much help, especially if everyone is friendly and encouraging. I wouldn't try to compare my work to a pro's, but would just try to do my best!


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