quiltingshorttimer

I agree with Vicki--teaching is definitely an art and not always hand-in-hand with award winning quilts. Actually, the quilters I know of that are "winning Big" at the major shows tend to spend about a year on that one single quilt and really don't have time to teach!
I've taken lots of classes--both on the long arm and on piecing. Anymore I'm looking for classes on technique & design.

klswift

I have been making quilts for 40 years, I have been teaching quiltmaking for 20 years and I have never entered a quilt in a show. All my awards and accolades come from the people I gift them to (and sell them to). I teach people how to make quilts and have fun doing it. At times I teach them an 'easier' way to make them. But, if I tell them a shortcut, I always explain that if they are going to submit to a show, they need to follow the guidelines set by the show and follow 'traditional' rules. My goal in teaching people is not for them to show and win, it is to find the pleasure and joy in taking some flat pieces of fabric and creating a treasure. Maybe it isn't perfect, maybe the stitching needs some work, and maybe they machine attached the binding (heaven forbid!!), but they had fun! Let me re-emphasize that, my goal is that they enjoy the process and keep sewing.

Fizzle

I have also taken classes because the teachers have such great personalities and work really well with a class full of students!! Some of my closest quilting friends have never heard of them but the classes were educational and super fun. I can learn all kinds of ways. I don't want to pay to sit in a class with a less than personable teacher.

judykay

I have taken classes from both and my take is if they know what they are doing why not take from a lesser known. When taking a class from a well known award winning quilter you have no help if you need it after she leaves for her next teaching class but I have found when I take a class from my LQS I can go back and ask questions days or even weeks later. I have enjoyed classes from both .

FWLover

I had some quilts judged and got very positive comments on my binding. One of the things mentioned was alternating the miters on the corners. I have shared this hint with many quilting friends who weren’t aware of this. Good job bringing it to everyone’s attention.

mjpEncinitas

The skill it takes to win awards is not the same set of skills it takes to be a good teacher. While there is some overlap it isn't a lot.

tuckyquilter

Personally I've taken workshops from national and local teachers, and don't give a hoot whether they've won anything or not. They might just have great "marketing and self promotion" skills. So called "art quilts" don't tell me one bit about whether this person can really make a quilt. My advice would be: Only take classes that are things you love, never pay more than you can afford, and trust your own instincts. If you like appliqué, or piecing take those etc. IF you are trying to learn a new method or concept then step outside your comfort zone and take a class on that. The good thing is there are enough good teachers, with great classes to go around. Just enjoy the ride.

I teach quilting to a neighbor, and anyone who wants to drop in, sew, have a cup of coffee etc. We All have something we can pass on. I have never even aspired to enter anything, in any venue. Why? don't know, l just not my thing.

tuckyquilter

Oh I absolutely agree. When I look at some of the "show winners" I wonder what the judges were thinking. I want something Useable..

tuckyquilter

I agree. I don't take many classes in reality, but a couple of the ones from local folks have been extremely useful over the course of time.

lswan

I think a teacher needs passion for quilting and great communication skills. That doesn't follow an award, it is who you are. Some of the best quilters, say like Bonnie Hunter, never place quilts for awards, and her passion, sharing, communication, and dedication is second to none. Some local quilters have taught me boatloads. Karla Alexander is another great teacher who does not do show quilts. Award winning has nothing to do with the teaching. One great award winner, Karen Kay Buckley, is a wonderful teacher. I have taught guild programs and strive to be clear, enthusiastic, helpful individually, and be the class' cheerleader.