Why?
 

Why do you make the types of quilted pieces that you do?

I am still at the "it needs to be washable and I won't have a major fit if the quilt gets dirty" type of quilting.
(I will, though, have a fit if it is bleached, deliberately torn, or gets burn holes.)

I see some spectacular works that are meant to be looked at only. My main question is - how do you keep it "clean" when it gets so much handling to complete the project?

I vacuum or use a lint roller on small pieces I hang in my house. I make sure to wash my hands before working on projects. They stay clean.

I recently finished a white on white piece and washed it with regular detergent and Oxyclean in the washer. No problem and it looks wonderful. I machine wash/dry most table runners and mug rugs. No problem.

i wouldn't worry too, too, tooooo much about keeping it clean during construction. i'd do my best, though.
once it was done, if it needs spiffing i'd do it by hand, very gently, then let it dry instead of chucking it into the dryer.

I wash all my quilts after they are finished. Even the ones I enter in shows.

How do you handle items that have beads, crystals, lace, feathers, etc?

Dry clean only fabrics? (I have learned that many "dry clean only" fabrics can be washed- I've also ruined a couple of fabrics (drapery fabric) that I thought I could wash.

Ah, well. Learn and Live!

don't birds get wet and live to tell the tale?

i'd use the "hand-squish" method in a sink or tub of water using as little mild detergent as possible.

I make infant and toddler quilts knowing that they will get stained and dirty eventually.....but that they will be loved is more important to me. I wash all quilts before gifting to whichever charity I'm donating to.

Why?
 

I mostly make quilts for people who are going through cancer treatments. So they can be washed, and used as need to warm and comfort that person. Also have made quilts for Beyond Borders. Thinking about making a Pinecone quilt for the fun of doing something different.