Quilt judges understand that entrants are at different places in their quilting journey. They look for numerous factors including color, design, piecing, construction, and more. The question remains: What makes an award-winning quilt?
Judging Process
When quilts are judged hung, judges follow the hanging team and judge as a category is hung. This allows judges to view the quilts multiple times and evaluate how flat each quilt hangs, though the top corners typically go unseen.
Judge Selection
The QuiltCon judges usually consist of an certified judge, a modern quilter, and a design expert, selected by the MQG staff. Their names are announced before the opening of entries. Quilts are organized by category for easier judging.
Criteria for Judging Quilts
Judges consider general appearance, design, and workmanship. Tips to impress the judges include sewing straight seams, matching points, and avoiding wavy borders. Ensuring that quilting density is consistent throughout the quilt is also key. Quilt judging criteria extend to even distribution of quilting, consistency of stitch length, and overall originality.
To great effect, consideration of primary and secondary quilting designs can enhance the quilt’s overall impression. Judges also measure for consistent width of narrow border strips.
Tallying Points
There are several methods for tallying points. Quilts are judged individually and then against others in their category. A ‘Best of Show’ quilt is one that embodies perfect workmanship and design within the competition.
Determining Quilt Quality
Good quality quilts can be identified by the fabric quality, with 100% cotton often having 60 threads per square inch. Durable natural fibers, even stitching, fitting the mattress appropriately, and proper care labels are indicators of quality. For collectors, rare and unusual patterns add value.
To price an art quilt, first calculate the square inch area and then convert to square feet to determine the per square foot price.
Participating in county or state fair competitions is a common way for quilters to showcase their work. The judging is a blend of measurable standards and subjective assessment, influenced by the venue or sponsor. Therefore, every quilt has the potential to receive recognition, and entrants are encouraged to strive for their best workmanship and design.