Basketman

After reading all the various replies here, I decided to test out my sense of honesty with another posting. I basically gave my opinion as to layout (which was the focus of the posting ) but went one step further... and that was to say that a single fabric choice, in the nine that were shown, possibly needed to be reconsidered. I have been told that men have a totally different approach to colors as it relates to quilting, and while I am too inexperienced in making quilts to be able to adequately determine the validity of that statement...I have taken this at face value and will see how others, and the initial author of that post, respond to my specific contribution. Like a few others here, at times, I have been castigated for my directness and once a posting actually was removed when I felt it was both constructive as well as diplomatically presented. Honest to me does not come in shades, but how it is said is almost as critical as the integrity of your message and yes, some artists/quilters have thin skins and fragile egos, but if you really ask something of others...if you cannot handle what is said, especially when said with good intentions, then why ask at all?

earthwalker

I am not terribly good at 'sugar coating' or saying, "Oh, don't worry about fixing your mistakes". I am my own harshest critic, if I make a mess I can't rest 'til I get it right. I endeavour never to be rude, so if I think my answer may offend I say nothing. I am here for many reasons, primarily because I quilt alone and find this place a source of knowledge, encouragement and inspiration.

Neesie

Interesting question and I agree that people who ask, need to specify whether or not they truly want honest answers. Not terribly long ago on this board, someone asked for opinions and when a few honest (but slightly negative) ones were given, the 'offending' responders were pretty much lambasted for being honest.

Claire123

I have only submitted one thread like that and in that situation I really did want an honest reply. We are all at different skill levels and it's really easy to compare your work to the finished products of others.

bearisgray

I have NEVER seen a critical comment - or even a - maybe next time you could . . . type of comment - on something that seemed to be in the show and tell category on this board.

cjsews

Bear is right. In the picture forum the projects are usually complete and just want acknowledgement of work done to the best of the quilters ability. You can see the quilters level and appreciate what they can accomplish. On the other hand in the main section they are asking for opinions or help. If they do not want all answers they should not ask. We are a large group and will give a variety of help/opinions