I was just wondering this....:)


Cindy

Personally I think it depends on the judge. I would say consistency with the pattern as far as pts matching. Color scheme. Quality of the quilting. Is the quilt square. Overall appearance etc.

I attended a program last month about this very thing. The judge who was the guest speaker said one of the most important things was consistency overall. It was a very educational program.

The short answer is a well-designed, well made quilt that lies flat, has square corners, and quilting that complements the top.

This prior discussion may be helpful to you:

http://www.quiltingboard.com/t-48147-1.htm

That question comes up a lot. Here's a taste of some other past discussions on what judges look for.
http://www.quiltingboard.com/t-59830-1.htm
http://www.quiltingboard.com/t-40613-1.htm
http://www.quiltingboard.com/t-65615-1.htm

Thanks for all the links. Wonderful information. :)

Cindy

I know for the big money shows the judges expect perfection in workmanship so the quilt that wins the Best in Show is judged for being innovative and having some element of different technique. If you ever see the top show quilts at Paducah, Houston, etc. you know each one is made perfectly so the judges have to base the decision on something other then skill. The Japanese quilters blow my mind, their quilts are absolutely the most intricate perfectly sewn quilts I have ever seen but they are all perfect, no new technique or innovation so they don't win top prize.